Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease that is caused by the bacteria treponema pallidum. This STD is transmitted through sexual intercourse that includes anal and oral sex. To become infected, a person must have contact with someone who has syphilis sores on their vagina, anus, rectum, mouth or lips. The disease can spread from through the blood to other parts of the body.

There are many syphilis symptoms. Unfortunately, these symptoms can also be associated with other diseases. Scheduling the Rapid Plasma Reagin blood test at Health Testing Centers can help you find out if you have this disease and seek appropriate treatment.

Untreated syphilis progresses through four stages.

Stage 1
During this stage a person may notice painless, open sores on their anus, genital area or mouth. These sores may also be present in other areas where the bacterium has entered the body.

Stage 2
A skin rash appears. This usually occurs within four to ten weeks after initial infection. During this period, the infected person is highly contagious.

Stage 3
This stage is called the latency period. There are no visible symptoms. The bacterium is still in the body and may be causing damage to internal organs. This period can last from five to twenty years.

Stage 4
This is the late stage of syphilis. At this point, untreated syphilis can cause blindness, damage the nervous system and cause mental health disorders. In some cases, untreated syphilis can cause death.

Syphilis is treatable with antibiotics. However, it must first to be diagnosed with the RPR screening test.