Genesee County Health Department

Better Life Through Better Health

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease caused by bacteria which enter the body, most often during sexual contact. In rare cases, syphilis has been passed by blood contact. Called "the great imitator," syphilis has symptoms that can mimic other diseases.

Syphilis can be detected with a blood test and cured with antibiotic medicine. If left untreated, illness usually occurs in stages. The first, or primary stage, begins approximately three weeks after infection. During this stage, a painless open sore (chancre) may develop in the area where the bacteria enter the body. The sore will heal if not treated, but syphilis remains. Without treatment, the second stage will begin. A rash may appear on the palms of the hands or the soles of the feet as rough, "copper penny" spots. It may also appear as a prickly heat rash, as small blotches or scales all over the body, or as a bad case of acne. Flu-like symptoms and hair loss may also occur.

The latent (hidden) stage of syphilis begins when the second stage symptoms disappear. If treatment has not been received, the bacteria remain in the body and attack internal organs, including the brain, nerves, eyes, heart, blood vessels, liver, bones, and joints. Infection can no longer be passed, but if treatment is not received, the third, or tertiary stage begins. Blindness, deafness, seizures and death can occur. This process can last many years.

Prevent syphilis by not having sex or by having sex only with an uninfected partner. Risk can be reduced by correct and consistent condom use. For more information about syphilis and other sexually transmitted diseases, contact the Genesee County Health Department at (810) 257-3440.