Syphilis is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can be cured. People who are sexually active can get syphilis . This fact sheet answers general questions about syphilis . Syphilis is caused by the spirochete Treponema pallidum and is characterized by 3 sequential symptomatic stages separated by periods of asymptomatic latent infection. Common manifestations include painless genital ulcers, skin lesions, meningitis, aortic disease, and neurologic syndromes. Diagnosis is by serologic tests and adjunctive tests selected based on the disease stage. Penicillin is the treatment of choice. Syphilis , systemic disease caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. Syphilis can be acquired through sexual and nonsexual contact. An unborn fetus can be infected by the mother. A chancre at the site of infection is an early symptom. Latent infection can damage the heart and nerves, causing death. Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by a type of bacteria. We explain the symptoms, complications, and more.
