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Syphilis
Alternate Names : Lues
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Syphilis, Secondary on the Palms
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Secondary syphilis is one of the few infectious diseases that produces rashes on the palms and soles, as well as a generalized rash. If an ulcer on the penis is followed several weeks later by a rash, the person should always be evaluated for syphilis.
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STDs and Ecological Niches
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Many sexually-transmitted diseases (STDs) invade the host and reside for long periods of time without killing the host. A good example is syphilis, which may reside in its host for 30 to 50 years. HIV also can take 10 or more years to kill its host, allowing plenty of time to spread the infection.
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Primary Syphilis
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Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. Primary syphilis presents as a small painless open sore 3 to 6 weeks after exposure. Although the lesion heals within 6 to 8 weeks, the untreated organism will continue to multiply unchecked, causing many complications. Infection may last for 30 years or more and result in severe neurological complications.
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Late-Stage Syphilis
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Tertiary syphilis is a late stage of the disease which can follow the initial infection, primary syphilis, by several years(3-15). Pockets of damage accumulate in various tissues such as the bones, skin, nervous tissue, heart, and arteries. These lesions are called gummas and are very destructive.
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Antibodies
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Antigens are large molecules (usually proteins) on the surface of cells, viruses, fungi, bacteria, and some non-living substances such as toxins, chemicals, drugs, and foreign particles. The immune system recognizes antigens and produces antibodies that destroy substances containing antigens.
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Definition Syphilis Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors Syphilis Symptoms & Signs Syphilis Prevention Syphilis Diagnosis & Tests Syphilis Treatment Syphilis Prognosis Syphilis Complications Calling Your Health Care Provider
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Topics that might be of interest to you Diseases & Conditions
Aneurysm Neurosyphilis Syphilis - Primary Syphilis - Secondary Syphilis - Tertiary
Tests & Exams
FTA-ABS RPR VDRL
Other Topics
Cardiovascular Central Nervous System Patches Rashes Swollen Glands
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