Syphilis progresses through several stages, each with distinct clinical features:
1. Primary Syphilis: Characterized by the appearance of a painless sore or chancre at the site of infection, usually on the genitals, rectum, or mouth. The chancre typically appears 3 weeks after exposure and heals within 3-6 weeks without treatment.
2. Secondary Syphilis: Occurs weeks to months after the initial chancre heals. Symptoms include skin rashes, mucous membrane lesions, and flu-like symptoms. The rash often appears on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet.
3. Latent Syphilis: A period with no visible symptoms. It can last for years. Early latent syphilis (within the first year of infection) is still infectious, while late latent syphilis is not.
4. Tertiary Syphilis: Can occur years to decades after the initial infection and may affect multiple organ systems, including the heart, brain, and nerves, leading to severe complications such as neurosyphilis and cardiovascular syphilis.
