In recent years, the U.S. has seen a concerning trend in sexually transmitted infections (STIs), particularly syphilis. While cases of other STIs like gonorrhea and chlamydia have also increased, syphilis cases have risen more rapidly. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), reported syphilis cases jumped by 1% between 2022 and 2023, reaching the highest number since 1950.
Syphilis is curable with the right antibiotics, but it may go undetected because its symptoms can resemble many other conditions. If left untreated, syphilis can damage vital organs and cause serious health problems. So, what exactly is syphilis, and what do you need to know about this STI?
Understanding syphilis: Stages, symptoms and complications
Syphilis is an STI caused by the bacteria Treponema pallidum. It spreads through direct contact with a syphilis sore or during oral, vaginal or anal sex.
Syphilis infections can progress through four stages, each with different symptoms:
1. Primary syphilis (2-12 weeks after exposure)
- A small, painless sore typically develops on the genitals or in the mouth
- The sore usually goes away on its own in 3-6 weeks; however, this does not necessarily mean the syphilis infection is resolved
2. Secondary syphilis (1-6 months after the sore disappears)
- A rash typically appears on the body, most commonly affecting the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, but it can develop anywhere
- Other symptoms may include fever, fatigue, wart-like sores, muscle aches, hair loss, headaches, weight loss and swollen lymph nodes
- Symptoms may come and go for months
3. Latent syphilis
- No obvious symptoms
- Mild flare-ups are uncommon, but possible
- Can damage the heart, bones, nerves and organs without treatment
4. Late (tertiary) syphilis:
- Associated with severe health complications, including brain damage, cognitive issues, heart disease, nerve damage, seizures and vision problems
Risk factors for syphilis
Several factors can increase your risk of contracting syphilis:
- Having unprotected sex
- Being sexually active with multiple partners
- Living with HIV
The importance of STI testing
Because symptoms of syphilis can be mild, intermittent and mistaken for other conditions, regular testing is beneficial for those at risk or who may suspect they have a syphilis infection. The CDC offers screening guidelines for STIs including chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis and HIV based on factors such as age, sexual activity and risk profile.
In addition to following these guidelines, it's important to:
- Practice safe sex using condoms
- Communicate with sex partners about protection and STI status
- Talk to your healthcare provider about your individual risks and testing frequency
Early detection and treatment of STIs can prevent serious health complications and reduce the spread of infections.
If you're concerned about your STI status, consider getting tested. Labcorp OnDemand offers a Syphilis Test as well as a Complete STI Test, which checks for chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, trichomoniasis, HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C.
Taking control of your sexual health starts with knowing your status. Don't wait—get tested today.
