Situation and vulnerability
An untreated infection may have late consequences. Screening during pregnancy is aimed at preventing congenital syphilis.
Signs and limits of their interpretation
Often painless ulceration can disappear without healing. A rash or symptom-free phase may then occur.
Diagnosis and monitoring
The professional interprets several tests and previous results. Some antibodies persist after treatment; their positivity is not sufficient to conclude reinfection.
Check these benchmarks in the WHO reference →
Prevention and care
Treatment, partner testing and serological follow-up complement each other. Eye or neurological damage should be reported promptly.
Practical issues
Does the disappearance of the canker mean that the infection is cured?
No. The evolution of the lesions may mask a persistent infection. Appropriate diagnosis and treatment are required.
Preparing for an exchange with a professional
- Dates of contact and injuries
- Serological results and previous treatments
- Pregnancy and visual or neurological disorders
Bring the full minutes and dates. This information facilitates evaluation; its collection must not delay an urgent appeal.
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Related fact sheets
These sheets share ways or contexts of exhibition in our catalogue. This reconciliation does not establish a differential diagnosis.
- Genital chlamydia
- Hepatitis B
- HIV infection
- Zika virus infection
- Gonorrhea
- Group B streptococcal infection
Compare Syphilis with associated sheets →
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