What should you know about syphilis on lips treatment?

Syphilis is an infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. A sore on the lip can occur after sexual contact involving the mouth, but appearance alone cannot confirm its cause. The sore may be painless and can heal while infection remains present. A clinician may examine the mouth and skin, ask about recent sexual contact, and offer blood testing or a sample from a lesion when suitable. Other causes of lip sores include irritation, herpes and non-infectious skin conditions.

A positive diagnosis matters because untreated infection can move through stages and may affect other parts of the body. It can also be passed through contact with an infectious sore, including during oral sex.

Arrange an appointment with a sexual-health service, GP or dermatologist. Do not squeeze, pick or cover the sore with irritating products. Avoid sexual contact, including oral sex, until a clinician has assessed you and explained when contact is safe. If syphilis is confirmed, take the prescribed antibiotic exactly as directed and complete the treatment plan. Ask about testing for other STIs and tell recent partners so they can receive confidential advice and testing. Use the STI Screening service for a suitable testing plan and Antibiotic Treatment for information about prescription care.

Seek prompt medical care for a new lip sore after sexual contact, especially if it is painless, does not settle, or is joined by a rash, swollen glands, fever or a sore in another area. Seek urgent help for eye pain or vision changes, severe headache, confusion, weakness, or difficulty swallowing or breathing. Tell the clinician if you are pregnant or could be pregnant, because untreated syphilis can affect a developing baby.

Ask: Could this lesion be syphilis or another infection? Which tests are appropriate for the timing of exposure? Do I need testing for other STIs? When can I resume sexual contact? Should a partner be tested or treated? What symptoms should make me return sooner?