Syphilis was once a terrible scourge on mankind because of the severe long term consequences of the infection including insanity and severe heart and vessel disease. Now syphilis is readily treated with antibiotics if detected. The primary stage is manifested by a sore that may ulcerate. The sore may be present on the genitalia, anus, lips etc. Sometimes the lymph nodes may also be swollen.
Late syphilis causes inflammation of the largest artery in the body, the aorta.
It also can affect the brain and neurologic system. It is a very serious disease with debilitating consequences. Syphilis may be spread sexually but may also be spread from an infected mother to her baby in the womb. The infected baby may be stillborn or may suffer blindness and severe organ , bone and joint damage. This disease is called congenital syphilis.