If Left Untreated,
It Can Lead to Death
Syphilis is a terrifying disease that can lead to death if left untreated! Treat it with HIGHST Urology's accurate diagnosis and systematic treatment system.
What Is Syphilis?
Syphilis is a disease in which syphilis bacteria invade during sexual intercourse, causing hard ulcers and lumps on the genitals. Unlike other STDs, syphilis also infiltrates the blood, progressing through stages 1, 2, and 3, and can ultimately lead to death. There are no symptoms during the latent period, and even when symptoms appear, they may disappear on their own without treatment, causing many patients to miss the optimal treatment window. Among patients visiting the hospital for suspected STDs, approximately 5% test positive for syphilis through blood tests.
Route of Syphilis Infection
Infects by Penetrating the Blood
Through the Skin
The causative organism, Treponema pallidum, penetrates the blood through the skin. It is primarily transmitted through wounds, spreading from local symptoms to systemic symptoms, and can lead to death in severe cases. Acquired syphilis is mainly transmitted when the skin or mucous membranes of the external genitalia are damaged during sexual contact. It can also be transmitted through kissing an infected person or sharing toothbrushes and razors. In pregnant women, it can be transmitted to the fetus, but it is not transmitted to family members through daily activities.
Symptoms of Syphilis #1
Primary Syphilis : Chancre
Appears approximately 3 to 90 days after infection with syphilis bacteria. Typically, a single painless ulcer resembling a lunar crater develops. The ulcer may persist for up to 5 weeks. The ulcer resolves on its own, but the syphilis bacteria remain in the body. In some cases, regional lymph node enlargement may also occur.
Symptoms of Syphilis #2
Secondary Syphilis
Appears approximately 2 weeks to 6 months after infection. Skin rashes develop on the palms and soles and persist for 2 to 6 weeks. Gray ulcers may develop in the mouth and throat. Systemic fatigue and hair loss may also occur.
Symptoms of Syphilis #3
Tertiary Syphilis
Begins approximately 2 to 30 years after infection. Small tumors develop on the skin, bones, and internal organs. Heart and blood vessel problems may occur. Cranial nerve damage can lead to loss of vision.
Diagnosis of Syphilis
Screening tests for syphilis include non-treponemal tests: VDRL (Venereal Disease Research Laboratory) and RPR (Rapid Plasma Reagin).
However, these tests carry the possibility of false positives — where the result is positive even though the patient does not actually have syphilis. False positives can occur in cases of viral infections, lymphoma, tuberculosis, connective tissue diseases, and pregnancy. Therefore, if the screening test is positive, confirmation must be performed using specific treponemal tests such as FTA-ABS (Fluorescent Treponemal Antibody Absorption) or TPHA (Treponema pallidum Hemagglutination Assay). These tests may remain positive even after syphilis has been completely cured. If neurosyphilis is suspected, a cerebrospinal fluid examination must be performed.
Treatment of Syphilis
Intramuscular penicillin injection is the best treatment method.
To achieve the treatment goal, the medication must be maintained in tissues for an extended period, even at low concentrations. For this purpose, benzathine penicillin G is administered as an intramuscular injection of 1.2 million units in each buttock. For patients with penicillin hypersensitivity, alternatives include ceftriaxone intramuscular injection or oral doxycycline or tetracycline. VDRL tests should be performed at 3, 6, and 12 months after treatment to monitor changes in titers.
Treatment Process
01
Registration
Smoother treatment is possible with a prior appointment.
02
Consultation
In-person consultation with the doctor.
03
Examination
Tests determined after consultation are performed.
04
Treatment
Treatment is carried out based on examination results.
05
Discharge
1-year VIP complimentary care service.
