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Syphilis is a bacterial infection spread primarily by sexual contact.

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What is the pathogen that causes syphilis?

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What is the pathogen that causes syphilis?

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The bacterium Treponema pallidum is the pathogen responsible for syphilis. This bacterium is a spirochete, which is a type of spiral-shaped bacteria.

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Can syphilis be spread through child birth?

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Can syphilis be spread through child birth?

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Syphilis can be transmitted from a pregnant person to their baby during pregnancy or childbirth, a condition known as congenital syphilis. This transmission can occur through the placenta during pregnancy or during vaginal delivery when the baby comes into contact with infected sores. Potentially leading to miscarriage, stillbirth, or premature delivery. If the baby survives to be born, they may have a range of health issues. Early testing and treatment for syphilis during pregnancy are crucial to prevent or minimize the risk of congenital syphilis in the baby. 

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Stage 1 of syphilis begins as one or more painless sores that worsen over time. These sores usually appear 10 to 90 days after infection and can last for 3 to 6 weeks. While the sores heal on their own, the infection remains and can progress to later stages if not treated. 

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Stage 2 syphilis, also known as secondary syphilis, is characterized by a rash that appears 3-12 weeks after the initial infection, often on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. This rash may be accompanied by other symptoms like fever, swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, fatigue, and weight loss. 

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The 3rd stage of syphilis, or Tertiary syphilis, is the late stage of untreated syphilis, occurring years or even decades after the initial infection. It is characterized by severe complications affecting various organs and systems, including the brain, nerves, eyes, heart, blood vessels, liver, bones, and joints. Without treatment, tertiary syphilis can be fatal. 

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The preferred treatment for syphilis is penicillin, administered by injection. The specific type of penicillin and dosage depend on the stage of syphilis and the individual's circumstances. If a person is allergic to penicillin, alternative antibiotics like doxycycline, ceftriaxone, or tetracycline may be used. 

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To prevent syphilis, the most effective strategies revolve around safe sexual practices and regular testing. Consistent and correct condom use during all types of sexual activity, including oral sex (using dental dams), significantly reduces the risk of transmission. Open communication with sexual partners about their STI status and encouraging regular testing is also crucial. Additionally, avoiding sexual activity with individuals exhibiting symptoms of syphilis can further minimize the risk. 

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Many people we are familiar with in history have been suspected to have had syphilis. Christopher Columbus’ crew became infected with the disease while in the New World, where it was rampant among natives, and brought it back to Europe. Genetic studies indicate the disease originated in South America. His cause of death is unconfirmed, but records state his symptoms prior to death included arthritic pain, mental confusion and instability, inflammation of the eyes, and gout; all of which are consistent with undiagnosed and untreated syphilis. 

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Al Capone, a notorious gangster, was confirmed to have been diagnosed with syphilis during his imprisonment at Alcatraz in the 1930’s. The infection went untreated, and he developed late stage syphilis that negatively affected his mental and physical health. He eventually died from the untreated syphilis.