Syphilis

Syphilis is a systemic sexually transmitted infection caused by the spirochete bacterium Treponema pallidum. The organism penetrates intact mucous membranes or abraded skin, disseminates through the bloodstream, and progresses through distinct clinical stages if untreated. Primary syphilis presents as a painless chancre at the inoculation site that resolves spontaneously. Without treatment, the infection progresses to secondary, latent, and potentially tertiary stages with devastating cardiovascular and neurological complications. The nurse monitors for clinical manifestations, supports medication adherence, provides patient education, and reports findings to the healthcare team.