Syphilis

Skin

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. It typically begins with a painless sore (chancre) at the site of infection, followed weeks later by a rash on the body, often on the palms and soles, along with possible fever or swollen lymph nodes. If untreated, the infection can progress into a latent stage and eventually to tertiary syphilis, which may cause serious heart, brain, and nerve complications.

AI Summary of Treatment Experiences

Not medical advice.

# Syphilis Treatment Summary Benzathine penicillin G is the gold standard treatment for syphilis, offering high efficacy with a single IM injection for early-stage disease and improved patient compliance. Doxycycline serves as an alternative for penicillin-allergic patients, requiring 14-28 days of oral dosing depending on disease stage, though it is less reliable than penicillin and cannot prevent congenital syphilis. Ceftriaxone is a backup option with limited supporting data, primarily for severe penicillin allergy cases or neurosyphilis when doxycycline is unsuitable. Condoms provide some risk reduction but are less protective than for other STIs since sores may occur outside covered areas.