What is Microbiology - Syphilis

​Syphilis

There are four forms of syphilis. These include congenital syphilis,primary syphilis, secondary syphilis and  tertiary syphilis. 

Congenital syphilis may lead to neurological and cardiovascular abnormalities. Transplacental spread may cause congenital syphilis. 

Primary syphilis is presented with painless ulcer or chancre which later resolve spontaneously. ( highly infectious)

Secondary syphilis may present with papule lesions on genitals ( condyloma lata) and mucous membrane. Patient my also develop maculopapular rash entire body. 
Secondary syphilis may develop 3 months after primary syphilis. (highly infectious)

Tertiary syphilis may develop few years later and present with formation of granulomas in the bone and skin, aortic aneurysm, dementia and meningitis. 

Syphilis is caused by treponema pallidum. Treponema pallidum can be detected via direct fluorescent assay and dark field microscopy. 

Serological testing for treponemal antigen and non treponemal antigen is useful in diagnosing syphilis. Treponema pallidum is a gram negative spirochetes which can be grown in a cell free culture. 

The mode of transmission is via sexual contact. Safe sex practice is vital.

The treatment may include benzathine penicillin. Non trepenomal antibody will rise during infection and fall if the treatment is successful.