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.
Author:Jeannette Curtis
Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Medical Review:Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated: 05/25/2007
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