Last Updated on May 6, 2023 by Francis
Hello! In this quizlet, we will be discussing tertiary syphilis and the different manifestations that indicate its presence. Tertiary syphilis is the late stage of the sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. This stage can lead to severe complications affecting multiple organ systems, including the cardiovascular and nervous systems. By understanding the indicators of tertiary syphilis, we can better identify and treat this serious infection.
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Syphilis: A Brief Overview
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. It has four stages: primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary. Syphilis is most commonly spread through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. It can also be passed from an infected mother to her baby during pregnancy or childbirth.
Tertiary Syphilis: Late Stage Symptoms
Tertiary syphilis is the final stage of the disease, which occurs when the infection is left untreated for a long time. The symptoms of tertiary syphilis can be severe and may affect multiple organs in the body. Here are some of the late-stage symptoms of tertiary syphilis:
Gummas
Gummas are small, rubbery nodules that can develop on the skin, bones, and organs. They are painless but can cause significant damage to the affected tissues.
Neurological Symptoms
Tertiary syphilis can also affect the nervous system, causing symptoms such as:
- Headaches
- Seizures
- Dementia
- Loss of coordination
- Vision problems
Cardiovascular Symptoms
Tertiary syphilis can also lead to cardiovascular problems, including:
- Aortic aneurysm
- Aortic regurgitation
- Coronary artery disease
Other Symptoms
Other symptoms of tertiary syphilis may include:
- Joint pain
- Hearing loss
- Liver damage
- Kidney damage
Diagnosis and Treatment
Tertiary syphilis is diagnosed by a blood test that looks for antibodies to the bacterium that causes syphilis. If you have tertiary syphilis, your healthcare provider may recommend treatment with antibiotics, such as penicillin. The treatment may not reverse the damage caused by the disease, but it can stop the progression of the infection and prevent further damage.
Key Takeaway: Tertiary syphilis is the final stage of the sexually transmitted infection and can cause severe symptoms that affect multiple organs in the body, including the nervous and cardiovascular systems. Prevention through safe sex practices, such as using condoms and regular testing, is crucial in avoiding the spread of syphilis. Treatment with antibiotics can stop the progression of the infection and prevent further damage, but it may not reverse the damage caused by the disease.
