Podcast #355: Syphilis
Jul 20, 2018•4 min
Listen to this episode in Metacast mobile app
Don't just listen to podcasts. Learn from them with transcripts, summaries, and chapters for every episode. Skim, search, and bookmark insights. Learn more
Episode description
Author: Aaron Lessen, MD
Educational Pearls:
- Re-emerging STI.
- Progresses through distinct phases if untreated:
- Primary syphilis: frequently overlooked because initial chancre is painless.
- Secondary syphilis: viral syndrome, rash on trunk, palms, and soles.
- Latent syphilis: asymptomatic period, lasting 5-20 years.
- Tertiary syphilis: includes neurosyphilis (dementia, encephalitis, etc.) and cardiovascular syphilis (aortitis, etc).
- Treatment penicillin G 2.4 million units once for primary or secondary treatment; once weekly for 3 weeks for latent/tertiary.
References
Mattei, P., Beachkofsky, T., Gilson, R., Wisco, O. Syphilis: A reemerging infection. 2012. American Family Physician., 86(5), 433-440.
For the best experience, listen in Metacast app for iOS or Android