Syphilis Flashcards
Syphilis is caused by what spirochete bacteria?
Treponema pallidum
How is Syphilis most commonly transmitted?
Sex
What is the risk of transmitting Syphilis during unprotected sex?
30 - 50%
Most cases of Syphilis are seen among what population?
Men who have sex with Men (MSM)
How often should MSM be screened for Syphilis?
Every 3 - 6 months
When should pregnant patients be screened for Syphilis?
First Prenatal Visit
Third Trimester
Delivery (if high risk)
Includes primary lesions of chancre (painless) that are usually on the penis, labia, cervix, anorectal, and sometimes in the oropharynx?
Primary Syphilis
How soon after inoculation does Primary Syphilis occur
10 - 90 days
A painless, “punched out” appearing ulcer, that is indurated with a raised border, and a red and smooth base with very little serous secretions.
Chancre
A type of Syphilis test that detects antibodies to lipoidal antigens.
Non-Treponemal Tests
What are the two Non-Treponemal Tests used to screen for Syphilis?
VDRL and RPR
- Venereal Disease Research Laboratory
- Rapid Plasma Reagin
What can be used to confirm the diagnosis of Syphilis following a non-treponemal test?
Treponemal Test
What are the two Treponemal Test used to diagnose Syphilis?
TPPA and FTA-ABS
- (T. pallidum Particle Agglutination)
- (Fluorescent Treponemal Antibody Absorption Test)
What two immunoassays can be used to diagnose or screen for Syphilis?
EIA-Enzyme
CIA-Chemiluminescence
Without treatment, how long will it take for the Chancre to resolve?
1 - 3 weeks
Once a Syphilis Chancre resolves on its own, what happens next?
Patient will still progress to Secondary or Latent infection
What is the treatment for Primary Syphilis?
Penicillin G (IM)
2.4 million units
Stage of Syphilis that is asymptomatic but highly infectious and occurs within one year of Primary Syphilis. It can convert to Secondary Syphilis if not adequately treated.
Latent Syphilis (Early)
What is the treatment for Latent Syphilis (Early)
Penicillin G (IM)
2.4 million units
Syphilis infection that occurs a few weeks to 6 months after Chancre. Presents with systemic signs such as a fever and lymphadenopathy. Infectious lesions will be distant from the site of inoculation.
Secondary Syphilis
What is the most common finding in Secondary Syphilis?
Skin and Mucosal Lesions
(Maculopapular Rash)
Wart-like, weeping papule on moist skin that resemble genital warts and are seen in Secondary Syphilis.
Condyloma Lata
What is seen in 80% of cases of Secondary Syphilis?
Rash of Palms and Soles
How is Secondary Syphilis diagnosed?
Serologic Testing