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Syphilis
Syphilis (Lues venerea) is transmitted by bacteria. The causative agent is called treponema pallidum.
Ways of infection during sexual contact: Syphilis is transmitted through any mucosal contact, i.e. through any sexual contact - vaginal, oral and anal. The pathogen is also transmitted if there is no ejaculation, i.e. also with oral contact with the vagina or the anus!
Infection through contact of the bacteria with broken skin is also possible. The secretion that comes out of the syphilis ulcers and papules is highly contagious. Syphilis is always contagious as long as the pathogen is in the body - regardless of whether symptoms have already occurred or the patient is symptom-free. Without treatment, the pathogen remains in the body for life!
Although infections with syphilis have been declining since the beginning of the 20th century, several thousand people, mainly men, become infected each year.
Course of the disease: The disease syphilis runs through several stages. Approximately 3-4 weeks after infection, an ulcer first develops with a hardened edge area. That is why syphilis is also called "hard chancre". This ulcer secretes a highly contagious fluid. Now the nearby lymph nodes also swell as the body fights the infection. The ulcer itself heals without treatment, which unfortunately causes many sufferers to overlook the disease.
In the second stage, about 2 months after infection, there are flu-like symptoms such as fever or body aches. Now the whole body fights the infection and the lymph nodes swell. Most sufferers get a characteristic rash or other skin symptoms. The symptoms subside after about 4 months.
Many internal organs are already affected several years (3-5) after the infection. Nodules and ulcers can form anywhere in the body, e.g. in the muscles, airways, stomach or bloodstream, and these can cause serious complications. At its most severe, syphilis can lead to chronic meningitis, and other neurological symptoms and nerve damage.
Syphilis is a serious disease, but it can be well treated. The sooner the better. If you suspect that you have been infected with syphilis, you should see a doctor as soon as possible!