Secondary Syphilis Diagnosed Clinically - Uncommon STD

Expert Author
Dr. Gunwant S. Dhaliwal Internist New Port Richey, FL

Dr. Gunwant Dhaliwal is an internist practicing in New Port Richey, FL. Dr. Dhaliwal specializes in the medical treatment of adults. Internists can act as a primary physician or a consultant to a primary physician. They manage both common and rare diseases. Dr. Dhaliwal provides comprehensive care and manages treatment... more

Since the advent of Penicillin, Syphilis has been almost eliminated these days. It has been replaced by Genital Herpes, another sexually transmitted disease.

Dr. Dhaliwal diagnosed a 3rd case in his 30 years of medical practice. The 1st case was 12 years ago, 2nd case was 2 years ago, and 3rd case was recently. A 50 plus year old male executive presented to the office with itching and a blistery rash on both palms and soles for 2 weeks. Since Dr. Dhaliwal has seen such cases in the past, he immediately suspected and told the patient bluntly that this might be from Secondary Syphilis. Of course, the patient was surprised. The STD blood work was ordered and needless to say, everything came out negative except Syphilis (RPR) with confirmatory (TPA) test positive. So, the patient was treated with a heavy dose of 2.4 million units of Penicillin to which he responded well.

How can I reduce my risk of getting syphilis?

The only way to avoid STD's is to not have vaginal, anal, or oral sex. If you are sexually active, you can do the following things to lower your chances of getting syphilis:

  • Being in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who has been tested for syphilis and does not have syphilis;
  • Using latex condoms the right way every time you have sex. Condoms prevent transmission of syphilis by preventing contact with a sore. Sometimes sores occur in areas not covered by a condom. Contact with these sores can still transmit syphilis.

Am I at risk for syphilis?

Any sexually active person can get syphilis through unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Have an honest and open talk with your health care provider and ask whether you should be tested for syphilis or other STD's.

  • All pregnant women should be tested for syphilis at their first prenatal visit.
  • You should get tested regularly for syphilis if you are sexually active and

More information at https://www.cdc.gov/std/syphilis/stdfact-syphilis-detailed.htm