Syphilis Flashcards
Is syphilis reportable?
Yes
What are the stages of syphilis?
- Primary
- Secondary
- Latent
- Tertiary
What are the expected assessment findings in the primary stage of syphilis?
- Chancre at site of inoculation*:
- begins as papule
- ulcerates with hard edge and clean, yellow base
- indurated and painless
- usually on genitalia
- solitary of multiple
- persists 1 - 5 weeks
- heals spontaneously - Regional lymphadenopathy
*May go unnoticed in women
Describe the rash that is associated with the secondary stage of syphilis.
- Bilateral and symmetrical
- Polymorphic
- Nonpruritic
- Frequently on palms and soles
- Usually persists 2 - 6 weeks
- Spontaneously resolves
Describe the condyloma lata that is associated with the secondary stage of syphilis.
Peripheral lesions:
- Moist
- Pink
- Warty
Present on:
- Glans
- Perianal
- Vulval areas
- Intertriginous areas
Describe the assessment findings at the latent stage of syphilis.
Asymptomatic
Describe the assessment findings at the tertiary stage of syphilis.
Cardiovascular manifestations:
- Aortic valve disease
- Aneurysm
Neurological manifestations:
- Meningitis
- Encephalitis
- Tabes dorsalis
- Dementia
Integumentary manifestations:
- Gummas
Orthopedic manifestations:
- Charcot joints
- Osteomyelitis
What test/s is/are ordered for screening of syphilis?
EIA, CIA
What is the recommended treatment for syphilis in the primary and secondary stages?
- Benzathine penicillin G (Bicillin):
- 2.4 million units IM in adults
- 50,000 units/kg IM in children - Prophilaxis treatment for all sexual contacts in last 90 days
What is the recommended alternate treatment for syphilis in the primary and secondary stages inc cases of penicillin allergy?
- Doxycycline (Vibramycin) 100 mg PO BID x 14 days
–OR– - Tetracycline 500 mg PO TID x 14 days
NOTE: For penicillin allergy AND uncertain compliance/follow-up, desensitization is recommended
