Syphilis is an infection caused by bacteria. Most often, it spreads through sexual contact. The disease starts as a sore that's often painless and typically appears on the genitals, rectum or mouth.

Sexually transmitted infections treatment guidelines, 2021: Syphilis. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/std/treatment-guidelines/syphilis.htm. Accessed April 27, 2023. Hicks CB, et al. Syphilis: epidemiology, pathophysiology, and clinical manifestations in patients without HIV. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search.

Syphilis is simple to cure when it's found and treated in its early stages. The preferred treatment at all stages is penicillin. This antibiotic medicine can kill the bacteria that causes syphilis.

Sexually transmitted infections treatment guidelines, 2021: Syphilis. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/std/treatment-guidelines/syphilis.htm. Accessed April 27, 2023.

Sexually transmitted infections treatment guidelines, 2021: Syphilis. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/std/treatment-guidelines/syphilis.htm. Accessed April 27, 2023.

Sexually transmitted infections treatment guidelines, 2021: Syphilis. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/std/treatment-guidelines/syphilis.htm. Accessed April 27, 2023. Hicks CB, et al. Syphilis: epidemiology, pathophysiology, and clinical manifestations in patients without HIV. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search.

Oct 24, 2018 · Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. Dr. Stacey Rizza, an infectious diseases specialist at Mayo Clinic, says syphilis affects men and women – and can present in various stages.

Feb 3, 2024 · Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. Dr. Stacey Rizza, an infectious diseases specialist at Mayo Clinic, says syphilis affects men and women — and can present in various stages.

Aug 1, 2022 · What is syphilis? " Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection spread by direct contact with skin sores," says Trevor Rich, M.D. , a family medicine physician at Mayo Clinic Health System — Oakridge in Mondovi, Wisconsin .

Explore comprehensive guides on hundreds of common and rare diseases and conditions from the experts at Mayo Clinic.