Secondary Syphilis

What is Secondary Syphilis

Secondary syphilis is the second stage of the sexually transmitted disease syphilis. Generalized maculopapular eruptions are most common, although lesions may be pustular or follicular as well (or combinations of any of these types). Condylomata lata are raised, weeping papules on the moist areas of the skin and mucous membranes. progresses in stages and without treatment, can lead to death.

The patient generally feels sick, can have regional lymphadenopathy, but complains only of minimal itching.

Diagnosis of syphilis is based on a positive serologic test or discovery of Treponema pallidum on darkfield microscopy. FTA-ABS (antibody test for Syphilis ) confirms the diagnosis

Symptoms of Secondary Syphilis :

Each stage of syphilis has different symptoms. Syphilis can be spread during the first two stages of the disease.

A rash is usually composed of red lesions that can either be small or large. The rash is also present on the palms and soles of the feet (only a few conditions have a rash in these places)
Condylomata Lata -- sweeping skin lesions in the moist areas of skin and mucous membranes
Silvery ulcer patches on the mucous membranes (mouth or vagina)
Diffuse lymph node swelling in the body
Yellow skin or eyes (occasionally)
Low-grade fever
Lack of energy
Loss of appetite
Joint and muscle aches
Headaches
Neck stiffness (rare -- a sign of Meningitis )