Explain the different stages of syphilis. (Terminology/topics to include: causative organism (morphology, gram-stain reaction), mode of transmission, chancre, gumma, symptoms, likelihood of infection, treatment options at different stages, damage that can occur during different stages, prevention methods).

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease

Explanation:

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by Treponema pallidum, a spirochaete gram-negative bacterium with various subspecies. This disease is transmitted through direct contact (person to person) by different types of sexual acts. A chancre is an infectious genital lesion that is considered to be the first stage (and symptom) of syphilis. The incubation period of syphilis is 14-21 days. Syphilis can be divided into four stages: primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary. Primary syphilis produces chancres on the genitals, mouth, rectum, etc. Secondary syphilis causes rashes that occur from 2-8 weeks after the chancres. The third (latent) stage is a latent/hidden phase without noticeable symptoms. Finally, the tertiary (late) stage causes large sores within the body that affects the heart, nervous system, etc. The best manner to prevent syphilis is by practicing safe sex (e.g., by using condoms). It has been suggested that syphilis has an estimated transmission rate of 0.5–1.4% per sexual act. Syphilis doesn't have an effective treatment, but this disease can be cured in its early stages with one dose of benzathine penicillin G (administered intramuscularly).