Syphilis

Cause

Syphilis is most easily transmitted during unprotected sex (without a condom).

Symptoms

First, an ulcer develops on the penis, vagina, anus or mouth. Later, spots appear on the skin, and you may experience a flu-like feeling, hair loss and eye symptoms. You can read more about syphilis on the STI Aids website

Make an appointment

If you think you have syphilis, you can do an STI test Click on the blue button to make an appointment. Or call +31 20 555 5822

> Make an appointment

Cure

The best treatment for syphilis is penicillin injections. How many injections you need depends on how long you have been infected. Sometimes one treatment is enough but you may also need three treatments. The injections then take place for three consecutive weeks. If you miss a treatment in those three weeks you need to restart the treatment. If you are allergic to penicillin, another treatment is needed.

Treatment is important

Without treatment syphilis is a serious disease that affects the heart, blood vessels, brain and spinal cord.  It can cause paralysis and inflammation of the bones. Syphilis is also harmful to unborn children. Pregnant women are always tested for syphilis in the Netherlands.

Side effects

You may have flu-like symptoms after treatment. Take paracetamol if necessary. Read more about the side effects in the patient information leaflet.

Why do I have to be monitored after treatment?

If you have been treated for syphilis, you will continue to be monitored for a while to determine if the treatment worked and detect new infections. Monitoring takes place over 1 or 2 years in the form of blood tests:

• After 6 and 12 months (in the case of a recent infection)
• After 6, 12, 18 and 24 months (in case of an old infection)
• After 3, 6, 9, 12, 18 and 24 months (if you are HIV-positive)

Whom should I notify?

• Syphilis is highly contagious. You must inform your sexual partners about your infection. They can then get tested and treated. If you find it difficult to notify your partners, GGD Amsterdam can do it for you.
• A syphilis infection usually remains detectable in the blood even after proper treatment. This is like a scar and does not mean you still have syphilis. We should inform your GP of this. We will ask for your name and address details at the time of your treatment.

Referral to neurologist

If there are indications that the brain or spinal cord is affected by syphilis, we will refer you to a neurologist for further examination. If treatment is necessary it will take place at the hospital.