Understanding Syphilis - Symptoms I Diagnosis I Treatment & Prevention
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. It can have serious health implications if left untreated. Here we'll delve into the symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies for syphilis.
Currently , there has been a resurgence of this old disease and increasing coinfection with HIV is also been encountered.
Symptoms of Syphilis include
1. Primary Stage: A painless sore or ulcer (chancre) usually appears at the site of infection 9-90 days after the exposure, often on the genitals, rectum, or mouth. It heals within a few weeks. Other STDs like Herpes, chancroid, lymphogranum venereum (LGV) , granuloma inguinale should be ruled out.
2. Secondary Stage: If left untreated, the infection progresses to the secondary stage, marked by a rash, mucous membrane lesions, and flu-like symptoms. These symptoms can come and go over a span of weeks to months.
3. Latent Stage: Without treatment, syphilis enters a latent stage where there are no visible symptoms, but the bacteria remain in the body.
4. Tertiary Stage: In some cases, syphilis can progress to the tertiary stage, which can damage organs like the heart, brain, and nervous system. This stage can be life-threatening.
Diagnosis: Syphilis can be diagnosed through several methods:
1. Blood Tests: Blood tests, such as the serological (Rapid Plasma Reagin (RPR) test , VDRL (Venereal Disease Research Laboratory) and the Treponemal Pallidum Hemagglutination (TPHA) test, can detect antibodies produced in response to the infection. Each differs the others in the precise substance being measured, complexity, and specificity.
2. Direct Testing: If a sore is present, a sample can be taken and examined under a microscope to identify the bacteria. This is usually practically not feasible.
Whenever a screening test (RPR, VDRL) is positive, a more specific test (FTA-ABS, TP-MHA) should be used to confirm the test and rule out a "biologic false positive."
TPHA remains positive for life & hence, prior syphilis treatment history and sexual history is needed for right interpretation if TPHA is positive.
Treatment:
Syphilis is treated with antibiotics, primarily penicillin. The type and duration of treatment depend on the stage of syphilis and the individual's medical history. It's essential to complete the full course of antibiotics even if symptoms disappear. Benzathine penicillin, Crystalline penicillin , ceftriaxone & doxycycline can be used for the treatment depending upon the stage of syphilis infection , associated HIV infection, feasibility of intravenous or intramuscular injection, allergy to antibiotics and affordability.
Prevention
1. Safe Sex: Using condoms consistently and correctly can reduce the risk of syphilis transmission.
2. Regular STI Testing: Regular STI screenings, especially for individuals with multiple partners, can help detect syphilis and other infections early.
3. Partner Communication: Openly discussing sexual health with partners can promote informed decisions and safer practices.
4. Avoidance of Risky Behaviors: Avoiding high-risk sexual behaviors can lower the likelihood of exposure to syphilis.
5. Vaccination: While no vaccine for syphilis currently exists, some research is being conducted in this area.
Syphilis is a serious infection that can have severe consequences if not diagnosed and treated promptly. Being aware of its symptoms, understanding its diagnosis and treatment options, and adopting preventive measures can contribute to a healthier and safer sexual life. Remember, practicing safe sex and maintaining open communication with partners and healthcare providers are crucial steps in preventing the spread of syphilis and other STIs. If you suspect you might have syphilis or any other STI, seek medical advice and get tested promptly.
Пікірлер: 35
Very informative
Great information Dr. Neha….never new the history n prevalence of it…Thanks!
Today I tested positive for HSV after having a horrible outbreak, and feel the same way you described in your interview. Listening to you share your overcome experience gave me the glim of hope I needed to hear. I am glad that there are people like you out there who just want to help other people who are struggling with the same issues. Your words gave me the courage I needed to hear today to know that it’s ok. I can still be myself and now I'm enjoying my life the way I am supposed to. it is a blessing i came across you Dr Ofenmu KZread channel
Very Knowledgeable.
Nice information mam
George…test for HIV, Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Syphilis, Human papillomavirus (HPV), Genital herpes, Hepatitis B-C-A, Herpes simplex virus.
@ogbeborchristabel9276
10 ай бұрын
Dr emuakhe from Africa cure it all but unknown to sufferers
@sverma3548
10 ай бұрын
Plz advice necessary test name of these
@ogbeborchristabel9276
10 ай бұрын
@@sverma3548 I think the total cure is much necessary
Mera VDRL non reactive hai pr TPHA 1:5120 kya mai saudi jaane ke liye medical clear hoga koi bhai bataye
I found out I had syphilis.. Nd I got treatment last month..so my worry is I wonder if my Hair will ever grow back again.. Will it?
if vdrl is negative and TPHA - reactive, value- 1.16 Is it positive or not? Now what should a patient do??
@Jabedahammed6160
10 ай бұрын
Hi
I have tested tpha syphilis and I got negative results now I am looking for Dubai .. should I test again? My flight in 2024 June 25
Very senior ID physician in India
Hi I discover I'm sick for 5yrs now cause by syphilis then my problem is how to cure it.
Just like yesterday everything is felling into place❤️with the help of Dr emuakhe our community is safe once again,our kids don't have to fear HIV aids, Herpes, HPV, tumor and other sickness any more.We appreciate your efforts in curing most deathly disease, keep up the good work sir....................
Mera madam tpha positive hi raha hai mera VDRL non reactive aa raha hai mai kaise Saudi Arabia jaa sakte hai
Ma'am Syfilis titer 1:32 with dry scally rashes on palms and soles of foot. Want to know these dry rashes can spread syfilis through casual touches such as handshaking, towels touching, hugging etc? Plzzz tell me ma'am 🙏🙏
@begaasim2482
Ай бұрын
No sir
Kiya sypills hone par HIV bhi ke kitne chances hote h ma'am
My syphlis value 17.28
@briefpahadivlogs450
11 ай бұрын
Bhai jinda kese ho 😢
@khalilahmad4961
11 ай бұрын
@@briefpahadivlogs450 pehly 22.27 tha ab treatment krwaya h to ab report 3 months bad krwani h
@zeshanrafique4931
10 ай бұрын
@@khalilahmad4961asslamu alikum sar apny vdrl ka treatment kaha Sy liy h Mera 14.64
@Jabedahammed6160
10 ай бұрын
1.08 is it safe?
@user-bq7fq3lq2m
9 ай бұрын
Bhai ilaj Mai kon sy injection Kon si medicine khaa rahe
Ales hoga
Aap ko bi hai
Treatment bataya ni mam apne
@ogbeborchristabel9276
10 ай бұрын
Dr emuakhe from Africa cure it all
@Aloomatar-s4e
8 күн бұрын
@@ogbeborchristabel9276 r u sure??
@ogbeborchristabel9276
Күн бұрын
@@Aloomatar-s4e my uncle suffer this here in Texas not until we come across this herbs from Dr emuakhe
@Aloomatar-s4e
Күн бұрын
@@ogbeborchristabel9276 can u have dr emuakhe contact details pls