From the Research
Tertiary syphilis is not contagious, as the bacteria are present in low numbers and cannot be transmitted through sexual contact or other means. This late stage of syphilis typically occurs 10-30 years after the initial infection and is characterized by serious complications, including damage to the heart, brain, nervous system, eyes, and other organs 1. While primary and secondary syphilis are highly contagious through direct contact with syphilitic sores, the transmission risk is essentially eliminated by the time the disease progresses to the tertiary stage.
Some key points to consider in the management of syphilis include:
- The use of penicillin G benzathine as the primary treatment for early-stage syphilis, with doxycycline as an alternative for patients with penicillin allergies 2
- The importance of recognizing and treating syphilis early to prevent irreversible damage to the central nervous system and cardiovascular system 1
- The need for frequent serological screening, particularly among high-risk populations such as men who have sex with men 2
In terms of treatment for tertiary syphilis, penicillin G benzathine is typically administered as 2.4 million units by intramuscular injection once weekly for three weeks, with doxycycline (100mg twice daily for 28 days) as an alternative for patients with penicillin allergies 2, 3. It is essential for individuals diagnosed with tertiary syphilis to inform their previous sexual partners, as they may have contracted the infection during its earlier, contagious stages.
Overall, while tertiary syphilis is not contagious, it is crucial to prioritize its management and treatment to prevent long-term complications and improve patient outcomes.