Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. It progresses in four stages:
- Primary Stage – A painless sore (chancre) appears at the infection site.
- Secondary Stage – Skin rashes, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and other flu-like symptoms.
- Latent Stage – No visible symptoms, but the bacteria remain in the body.
- Tertiary Stage – Severe complications affecting the heart, brain, and other organs.
Syphilis is treatable with antibiotics (typically penicillin) if detected early.
