Syphilis


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Syphilis


Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. The most common initial symptom is a painless sore called a chancre (pronounced "shanker") that develops on the genitals.

Syphilis can be easily cured with antibiotics. If left untreated, syphilis can eventually lead to serious health problems, such as blindness or heart problems.

Credits


Author Jeannette Curtis
Author Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer Patrice Burgess, MD
- Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Adam Husney, MD
- Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD
- Family Medicine
Last Updated May 25, 2007

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Last updated: May 25, 2007
Author: Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors: Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman

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