Syphilis Treatment in Delhi, India

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease caused by the Treponema pallidum bacterium. It is primarily transmitted through sexual activity, vaginal, anal, or oral, but can also be passed from an infected mother to the baby during pregnancy.

If detected early, syphilis is highly treatable. If not treated in time, the condition can advance through various stages and cause serious health problems that may impact the heart, brain, and other organs. Early diagnosis and timely treatment can help prevent these outcomes.

Stages of Syphilis

Syphilis progresses through several stages:

• Primary Syphilis: Usually presents as a painless sore (chancre) at the site of infection.
• Secondary Syphilis: Causes skin rashes, mucous membrane lesions, and flu-like symptoms.
• Latent Syphilis: No visible symptoms, but the infection remains in the body.
• Tertiary Syphilis: Can occur years later, affecting the brain, nerves, heart, and other organs.
• Congenital Syphilis: Occurs when an infected mother passes the infection to her baby during pregnancy or childbirth.

Symptoms of Syphilis

Symptoms vary depending on the stage:

• Primary stage: Painless sore at the infection site, usually lasting 3–6 weeks.
• Secondary stage: Rash on the palms, soles, or body; fever; swollen lymph nodes; sore throat; patchy hair loss.
• Latent stage: No symptoms, but bacteria remain in the body.
• Tertiary stage: Nerve problems, heart damage, vision loss, and other serious complications.

Causes of Syphilis

Syphilis is caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. It spreads through:

• Unprotected sexual contact with an infected person.
• Direct contact with syphilis sores or rashes.
• From mother to baby during pregnancy or childbirth (congenital syphilis).

Diagnosis of Syphilis

Medical History and Physical Exam for Syphilis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms, sexual history, and possible exposure to infected partners. A physical exam will check for sores, rashes, or other signs.

Tests for Diagnosing Syphilis

• Blood tests: Detect antibodies against the syphilis bacteria.
• Microscopic examination: Fluid from sores may be examined under a microscope to detect the bacteria.
• Lumbar puncture (in severe cases): Checks for syphilis affecting the brain or spinal cord.

When to See a Doctor for Syphilis

Seek medical care if you notice any suspicious sores, rashes, or have had unprotected sex with someone who may have an STI. Pregnant women should get tested during routine check-ups to prevent passing the infection to the baby.

Treatment for Syphilis

Medications for Treating Syphilis

The most common and effective treatment is penicillin, usually given as an injection. For people allergic to penicillin, alternative antibiotics may be prescribed.

Stages of Syphilis Treatment

• Early stages (primary and secondary): A single injection of penicillin often cures the infection.
• Later stages: Multiple doses may be needed over several weeks.
• Congenital syphilis: Newborns may receive penicillin injections for a set number of days.

Aftercare and Follow-up for Syphilis Treatment

Follow-up blood tests are essential to ensure the infection is completely cleared. Avoid sexual contact until your doctor confirms you are no longer contagious.

Prevention of Syphilis

Safe Sexual Practices to Prevent Syphilis

• Use condoms correctly and consistently.
• Limit the number of sexual partners.
• Avoid contact with sores or rashes of an infected person.

Screening for High-Risk Individuals for Syphilis

Regular STI screening is important for:

• People with multiple sexual partners.
• Men who have sex with men.
• Individuals with HIV.
• Pregnant women (to prevent congenital syphilis).

Risk Factors for Syphilis

Who is at Higher Risk for Syphilis?

• Individuals with unprotected sex or multiple partners.
• People with other STIs, especially HIV.
• Partners of someone diagnosed with syphilis.

Why Early Diagnosis of Syphilis is Crucial

Prompt detection and treatment prevent the infection from progressing to severe stages and stop its spread to others.

Complications of Syphilis

If left untreated, syphilis can cause:

• Stroke or brain damage.
• Blindness or hearing loss.
• Heart problems.
• Pregnancy complications, including stillbirth.

Why Choose BLK Max Hospital for Syphilis Treatment

At BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital, we provide:

• Advanced diagnostics for accurate and early detection.
• Specialised infectious disease experts with experience in STI management.
• Personalised treatment plans tailored to each stage of the disease.
• Confidential care to ensure patient privacy.
• Comprehensive follow-up services to monitor recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the early signs of syphilis?

A painless sore at the site of infection is often the first sign.

2. What is the new treatment for syphilis?

Penicillin remains the most effective treatment, but research continues on alternative therapies for penicillin-allergic patients.

3. How long does it take to treat syphilis?

Early stages can be cured with a single injection, while advanced stages may require longer treatment.

4. Can syphilis be cured?

Yes, syphilis can be completely cured with the right antibiotics if treated early.

5. Should I get tested for syphilis?

Yes, especially if you are sexually active with multiple partners or have symptoms.

6. Can syphilis affect pregnancy?

Yes, it can cause serious complications for both mother and baby, but early treatment can prevent them.

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