Syphilis

Syphilis in men can cause a painless genital sore (chancre) and swollen lymph nodes in primary infection. Secondary symptoms include rash (often on palms/soles), mucous patches, wart-like lesions, fever, sore throat, fatigue and patchy hair loss. Latent infection is symptom-free. Untreated, tertiary syphilis can cause gummas, cardiovascular problems and neurologic signs (headache, vision or hearing loss, coordination and personality changes).

Yes—syphilis can be cured with appropriate antibiotic treatment, typically intramuscular benzathine penicillin, especially when diagnosed early. Treatment clears the bacteria and prevents progression, but organ or nervous system damage already caused may be irreversible. Follow‑up testing and partner treatment are essential. Reinfection is possible after cure, and management differs for late or neurosyphilis and for penicillin‑allergic patients.

Yes. Syphilis can cause skin changes, especially in secondary syphilis, when a widespread rash (including palms and soles) and mucous patches occur. These lesions are classically non-itchy, though mild itching happens in some people. Primary and tertiary syphilis usually do not cause generalized itching. Any suspicious rash or sexual exposure should prompt testing and treatment to prevent complications.

Syphilis is caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum, a spiral-shaped spirochete. It is primarily transmitted through direct sexual contact with infectious sores and can be passed from an infected pregnant person to the fetus (congenital syphilis). Less commonly, transmission can occur via blood transfusion or close nonsexual contact with infectious lesions. If untreated, syphilis progresses through stages and may cause serious long-term complications.

A man may have syphilis if he notices a single painless sore (chancre) on the genitals, anus, or mouth, unexplained rash (often on palms/soles), mucous patches, fever, sore throat, or swollen lymph nodes. Many infections are initially asymptomatic. Diagnosis requires a clinician’s exam and blood tests (treponemal and non-treponemal) or lesion swab. Seek testing after risky sexual exposure.

Check for syphilis by seeing a healthcare provider or sexual health clinic. They’ll examine symptoms (painless ulcer, rash, mucous patches) and order tests: dark-field microscopy from a chancre if early, and blood tests (non-treponemal like RPR/VDRL plus treponemal confirmatory tests). Antibodies may take weeks to appear, so retesting after exposure may be needed. Prompt diagnosis enables effective treatment (usually penicillin).