Sex Related Diseases

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease, which is curable. The route of transmission of syphilis is almost always by sexual contact. However, there are examples of congenital syphilis via transmission from mother to child in utero. The signs and symptoms of syphilis are numerous; before the advent of serological testing, precise diagnosis was very difficult. In fact, the disease was dubbed the "Great Imitator" because it was often confused with other diseases, particularly in its tertiary stage. Syphilis (unless antibiotic-resistant) can be easily treated with antibiotics including penicillin. The oldest, and still most effective method is an intramuscular injection of benzathine penicillin. If not treated, syphilis can cause serious effects such as damage to the heart, aorta, brain, eyes, and bones. In some cases these effects can be fatal. In 1998, the complete genetic sequence of T. pallidum was published which may aid understanding of the pathogenesis of syphilis. (source Wikipedia)

Symptoms according to stages:

Stage 1.This first stage of syphilis is characterized by a lesion normally forms around the genital region.

Stage 2.After primary lesion has healed, new symptoms will show. Secondary lesions are likely to form. These lesions are likely found on the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet but it is possible for them to form in other areas as well.

Stage 3.Usually begins from 6 months to 2 years after the initial infection. About 25% of patients may experience a return of some the secondary symptoms.