Podcast #355: Syphilis

Author: Aaron Lessen, MD

Educational Pearls:

• Re-emerging STI.

• Progresses through distinct phases if untreated:

• Primary syphilis: frequently overlooked because initial chancre is painless.

• Secondary syphilis: viral syndrome, rash on trunk, palms, and soles.

• Latent syphilis: asymptomatic period, lasting 5-20 years.

• Tertiary syphilis: includes neurosyphilis (dementia, encephalitis, etc.) and cardiovascular syphilis (aortitis, etc).

• Treatment penicillin G 2.4 million units once for primary or secondary treatment; once weekly for 3 weeks for latent/tertiary.

References

Mattei, P., Beachkofsky, T., Gilson, R., Wisco, O. Syphilis: A reemerging infection. 2012. American Family Physician., 86(5), 433-440.