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What Are The Symptoms of Syphils?

By Elizabeth Boskey, Ph.D., About.com

Updated July 10, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

Examples of the chancre, or sore, typical of a primary syphilis infection. The sore, which is normally round and painless, will heal on its own after 3-6 weeks. However, if it remains untreated, secondary syphilis will eventually develop.

Examples of the chancre, or sore, typical of a primary syphilis infection. The sore, which is normally round and painless, will heal on its own after 3-6 weeks. However, if it remains untreated, secondary syphilis will eventually develop.

Photos courtesy of the CDC/ Dr. Gavin Hart; Dr. N.J. Fiumara; CDC/ Dr. Dancewicz; CDC.
Question: What Are The Symptoms of Syphils?
Answer:

Primary Syphilis:

  • one or more chancres appear at the site where the syphilis bacteria enters the body.
    • normally round, firm, and painless
    • will heal on their own in 3-6 weeks
    • usually show up within 3 months of infection
  • If untreated will lead to secondary syphilis.

Secondary Syphilis:

  • skin rash
    • frequently on palms of hands and soles of feet
    • usually rough, red and brown spots
    • rash can occur in other colors and places
  • genital ulcers
  • flu-like symptoms
  • Symptoms will resolve on their own, but if untreated will become tertiary syphilis.

Tertiary Syphilis:

  • difficulty making muscles move correctly
  • paralysis
  • numbness
  • gradual blindness
  • dementia
  • Can eventually lead to death.
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