What are the signs and symptoms of syphilis?

The signs and symptoms of syphilis progress through four stages:

Primary syphilis

* A sore (chancre) develops at the site where the bacteria entered the body. This usually occurs on the genitals, but can also occur on the rectum, mouth, or other areas of the skin.

* The chancre is usually firm, round, and painless.

* It may be accompanied by swollen lymph nodes in the groin or other areas.

* The chancre usually heals within 3 to 6 weeks, even without treatment.

Secondary syphilis

* Develops 2 to 8 weeks after the chancre appears and lasts anywhere from a few weeks to several months.

* Symptoms may include:

* A rash on the skin, palms, and soles of the feet

* Fever

* Fatigue

* Headaches

* Muscle aches

* Sore throat

* Mouth sores

* Vision problems

* Hearing loss

Latent syphilis

* Develops if secondary syphilis is not treated

* This stage can last for many years without any symptoms

* However, the bacteria can still be transmitted to others during this stage

Tertiary syphilis

* Develops in about 15% of people with untreated latent syphilis

* Symptoms may include:

* Damage to the heart and blood vessels

* Damage to the brain and spinal cord

* Damage to the eyes

* Damage to the bones and joints

* Skin lesions

* Paralysis

* Blindness

* Dementia

* Death

Neurosyphilis

* Can occur at any stage of syphilis, but is most common in people with tertiary syphilis

* Symptoms may include:

* Headaches

* Vision problems

* Hearing loss

* Confusion

* Memory problems

* Personality changes

* Paralysis

* Blindness

* Dementia

Congenital syphilis

* Develops in babies born to mothers with untreated syphilis

* Symptoms may include:

* Premature birth

* Low birth weight

* Skin rashes

* Seizures

* Vision problems

* Hearing loss

* Mental retardation

* Death