The symptoms of syphilis can vary depending on the stage of the disease. In the primary stage, a painless sore (called a chancre) may appear at the site of infection, usually on the genitals, anus, or mouth. In the secondary stage, a rash may appear on the body and mucous membranes, along with other symptoms such as fever, swollen lymph nodes, and muscle aches. If left untreated, syphilis can progress to the latent (hidden) stage and eventually to the tertiary (late) stage, which can cause serious health problems such as heart disease, brain damage, and death.
The infection period for syphilis is typically three to four weeks after exposure, although it can take longer. It can be treated with antibiotics, but it is important to get tested and treated as soon as possible to prevent complications.
At Solaris Diagnostics, we can test for Treponema pallidum by using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). Solaris Diagnostics Laboratories offer a STI (Sexually Transmitted Infection) Panel that tests multiple infections, Results are usually received within 24hrs of specimen being received.
