Tertiary syphilis is the third stage of the syphilis infection and can occur many years after the initial infection. It can affect the heart, brain, and other organs, leading to serious health issues. Tertiary syphilis is rare but can cause severe damage if left untreated.

Tertiary Syphilis FAQ


What are the symptoms of tertiary syphilis?

Symptoms can include difficulty coordinating muscle movements, paralysis, numbness, gradual blindness, and dementia.

How is tertiary syphilis diagnosed?

It is diagnosed through blood tests, cerebrospinal fluid tests, and examination of tissue samples.

Can tertiary syphilis be cured?

Yes, with appropriate antibiotics, tertiary syphilis can be cured.

What are the treatment options for tertiary syphilis?

The main treatment is penicillin. Doxycycline and ceftriaxone can also be used for those allergic to penicillin.

Is tertiary syphilis contagious?

No, tertiary syphilis is not contagious.

Can tertiary syphilis cause death?

If left untreated, tertiary syphilis can lead to severe health problems and, in some cases, be fatal.

Is it possible to have tertiary syphilis without symptoms?

Yes, some individuals with tertiary syphilis may not experience symptoms for many years.

Can tertiary syphilis affect pregnancy?

Yes, it can lead to serious issues such as stillbirth, premature birth, or the baby developing symptoms after birth.

What is the long-term outlook for someone with tertiary syphilis?

With proper treatment, the outlook is generally good, and the symptoms can be managed effectively.

How common is tertiary syphilis?

Tertiary syphilis is rare in developed countries due to early detection and treatment.

Is there a vaccine for tertiary syphilis?

No, there is currently no vaccine available for syphilis.

Can you get tertiary syphilis more than once?

Yes, a person can get syphilis multiple times.

What should I do if I suspect I have tertiary syphilis?

Seek medical attention immediately for testing and treatment.

Can tertiary syphilis be passed through kissing?

The risk of transmitting syphilis through kissing is extremely low, especially in the tertiary stage, but it is not impossible.

Can tertiary syphilis cause mental health issues?

Yes, it can lead to neurosyphilis, affecting the brain and causing serious mental health problems.

Releated topics


Information provided by Maryam Abdullahi-Mahdi. Reviewed by Mr. Matthew Liew