Syphilis

Key points

• Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the spirochaete Treponema pallidum. Infection is characterised by primary, secondary and tertiary stages. The incubation period is between 9-90 days Primary features
• chancre - painless ulcer at the site of sexual contact
• local non-tender lymphadenopathy
• often not seen in women (the lesion may be on the cervix) Secondary features - occurs 6-10 weeks after primary infection
• systemic symptoms: fevers, lymphadenopathy