Symptoms of Primary and Secondary Syphilis

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Symptoms of Primary and Secondary Syphilis

  • Primary Symptom -- Chancre
    • Single or multiple, small, round, firm, painless sore
    • Located on the genitals, anus, or mouth --anywhere the spirochete enters the body
    • Lasts 3 to 6 weeks
    • Heals whether treated or not
Public Health Image Library (PHIL) at CDC
  • Secondary Symptoms -- rash on skin and lesions on mucous membranes
    • Reddish brown, rough spots appear when the chancre is healing or days later
    • Rash occurs all over the body and on palms of hands and soles of feet
    • Happens if chancre untreated
    • Resolve with or without treatment but can become latent if untreated

  • Public Health Image Library

    Chancre Public Health Image Library (PHIL) from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention