Describe the phases of untreated syphilis.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. When untreated, it progresses through several distinct stages.
2. Step 1: Primary Stage - This stage is characterized by the appearance of a single sore, known as a chancre, at the site where the bacteria entered the body. The chancre is usually firm, round, and painless.
3. Step 2: Secondary Stage - This stage involves skin rashes and mucous membrane lesions. The rash often appears as rough, red, or reddish-brown spots on the palms of the hands and the bottoms of the feet. Other symptoms may include fever, swollen lymph nodes, and sore throat.
4. Step 3: Latent Stage - In this stage, the infection is not active, and there are no symptoms. However, the bacteria remain in the body. This stage can last for years.
5. Step 4: Tertiary Stage - This is the most severe stage, occurring years after the initial infection. It can affect multiple organ systems, including the heart, brain, and nerves, leading to serious complications such as paralysis, blindness, and dementia.

Key Concepts

Stages of Syphilis

Syphilis progresses through four distinct stages: primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary. Each stage has unique clinical manifestations, starting with a painless sore at the site of infection in primary syphilis, followed by systemic symptoms like rashes and flu-like signs in secondary syphilis. Latent syphilis is characterized by the absence of symptoms, while tertiary syphilis can lead to severe complications affecting the heart, brain, and other organs.

Primary Syphilis

Primary syphilis is marked by the appearance of a single sore, known as a chancre, at the infection site, typically within three weeks of exposure. This sore is usually painless and can go unnoticed. The chancre heals on its own within a few weeks, but the infection remains in the body, progressing to the next stage if left untreated.

Secondary Syphilis

Secondary syphilis occurs when the bacteria spread throughout the body, leading to systemic symptoms. This stage is characterized by skin rashes, mucous membrane lesions, and flu-like symptoms. It typically appears weeks to months after the primary stage and can resolve spontaneously, but without treatment, the infection can enter a latent phase, where symptoms are absent but the bacteria remain.