From the Research
Symptoms of syphilis typically appear within 10 to 90 days after exposure, with a latency period that can last for years if left untreated. The disease progresses through multiple stages, including primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary syphilis. Primary syphilis usually presents as a painless sore (chancre) at the site of infection, which lasts 3-6 weeks before healing on its own 1. Secondary syphilis symptoms appear 2-8 weeks after the chancre heals and may include rash, fever, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes. Without treatment, the infection enters a latent phase with no visible symptoms that can last for years, with some people eventually developing tertiary syphilis, which can cause severe damage to multiple organ systems 2.
According to the most recent guidelines, syphilis of less than one year's duration should be treated with a single dose of intramuscular penicillin G benzathine, 2.4 million units, while syphilis of more than one year's or unknown duration should be treated with three consecutive weekly doses of intramuscular penicillin G benzathine, 2.4 million units each 3. Early detection and treatment with antibiotics, typically penicillin G benzathine, is essential to prevent progression and complications. Some studies suggest that alternative regimens, such as ceftriaxone and doxycycline, may be effective in treating early syphilis, especially in HIV-infected patients 4. However, the mainstay of syphilis treatment remains parenteral penicillin G, despite relatively modest clinical trial data supporting its use 5.
Key points to consider include:
- The latency period for symptoms of syphilis can last for years if left untreated
- Early detection and treatment with antibiotics is essential to prevent progression and complications
- Penicillin G benzathine is the recommended treatment for syphilis, with alternative regimens available for certain patient populations
- Regular screening and testing is crucial for preventing the spread of syphilis and ensuring prompt treatment.