Syphilis in Men: Symptoms, Treatment, Stages, and Effects

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum.

Despite being curable, it poses significant health risks if left untreated. Understanding the symptoms, treatment, stages, and effects of syphilis in men is crucial for early detection and effective management.

What are the Signs of Syphilis in a Man?

Syphilis manifests in various ways, depending on the stage of infection. Here are some common signs:

1. Primary Stage:
   • Chancre: A painless sore or ulcer, usually appearing at the injection site, such as the genitals, rectum, or mouth. It typically appears three weeks after exposure and heals within three to six weeks, even without treatment.
   • Swollen Lymph Nodes: Often near the site of the chancre.
2. Secondary Stage:
   • Skin Rashes: Non-itchy rashes, often on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, but they can appear anywhere on the body.
   • Mucous Membrane Lesions: Sores in the mouth, vagina, or anus.
   • Flu-like Symptoms: Fever, sore throat, swollen lymph glands, and fatigue.
   • Patchy Hair Loss: Particularly on the scalp, eyebrows, or beard.
3. Latent Stage:
   • No Symptoms: The infection lies dormant, but the bacterium remains in the body, potentially causing severe health issues later.
4. Tertiary Stage:
   • Severe Medical Problems: Affects the heart, brain, liver, bones, and nerves. Symptoms can include difficulty coordinating muscle movements, paralysis, numbness, gradual blindness, and dementia.

How Do You Treat Syphilis in Men?

Early detection and treatment are vital for curing syphilis and preventing long-term complications. Here’s how syphilis is treated:

1. Antibiotics:
   • Penicillin: The most effective antibiotic for treating syphilis. A single injection of penicillin G benzathine can cure primary, secondary, or early latent syphilis. Late latent syphilis or syphilis of unknown duration may require additional doses.
   • Alternative Antibiotics: For those allergic to penicillin, options include doxycycline, tetracycline, and ceftriaxone. However, penicillin is preferred, especially during pregnancy.
2. Follow-Up Testing:
   • Regular blood tests are necessary to ensure the infection is fully cured and to monitor for any potential relapse.
3. Abstinence:
   • Avoid sexual contact until the infection is fully treated and follow-up tests confirm the cure.

What are the Four Stages of Syphilis?

Syphilis progresses through four distinct stages, each with unique symptoms and risks:

1. Primary Syphilis:
   • Chancre: The initial sign, a painless ulcer, appears at the injection site.
2. Secondary Syphilis:
   • Rashes and Lesions: Non-itchy rashes on the body, mucous membrane sores, and flu-like symptoms.
3. Latent Syphilis:
   • Dormancy: No visible symptoms, but the bacterium remains in the body.
4. Tertiary Syphilis:
   • Severe Complications: These can occur years after the initial infection, affecting multiple organs and systems.

How Does Syphilis Affect a Man?

Syphilis can have profound effects on a man’s health, especially if left untreated:

1. Neurological Damage:
   • Neurosyphilis: Can cause headaches, altered behaviour, movement disorders, and sensory deficits.
2. Cardiovascular Issues:
   • Cardiovascular Syphilis: This may lead to aneurysms, inflammation of the aorta, and heart valve disease.
3. Organ Damage:
   • It affects the liver, bones, and other organs, potentially leading to chronic health problems.
4. Psychological Impact:
   • The chronic and severe symptoms of tertiary syphilis can lead to mental health issues, including depression and dementia.
5. Transmission Risks:
   • Increases the risk of transmitting the infection to sexual partners and, during pregnancy, to the unborn child, leading to congenital syphilis.

Conclusion

Syphilis in men is a serious health concern that requires prompt attention and treatment. Recognizing the signs, understanding the treatment options, and being aware of the infection’s stages and effects can help manage and prevent this infection.

Early diagnosis and adherence to treatment protocols ensure full recovery and prevent the severe complications associated with untreated syphilis.

Regular STI screenings and safe sexual practices are vital in preventing the spread of syphilis and other sexually transmitted infections.