Immunology: Syphillis

Treponema pallidum

The spirochete type of bacteria that causes syphilis.

Chancre

A characteristic primary lesion caused by primary syphilis, usually a single sore located around the genitalia.

Incubation period

The time period between exposure to the bacteria and the onset of symptoms, typically around three weeks for syphilis.

Secondary syphilis

The stage that occurs two to eight weeks after the primary chancre goes away, featuring symptoms like headache, sore throat, and skin lesions.

Tertiary syphilis

The late stage of syphilis that can occur several years after initial infection, characterized by severe health complications and the presence of lesions.

Latent syphilis

A non-infectious stage where the disease is not active but can be identified through serological methods.

RPR antibody

A type of non-treponemal test antibody used to detect syphilis.

VDRL

Venereal Disease Research Laboratory test, a non-treponemal method for syphilis detection.

FTA-ABS

Fluorescence Treponemal Antibody Test, used as a confirmation test for syphilis by identifying the Treponema pallidum organism.

Non-treponemal tests

Tests like RPR and VDRL that do not directly detect the syphilis-causing organism but rather antibodies produced in response to the infection.

Flocculation test

A test methodology where soluble antigen particles form visible larger aggregates.

Symptoms of secondary syphilis

May include headache, sore throat, low-grade fever, and skin lesions.

Congenital syphilis

Syphilis transmitted from mother to fetus across the placenta.

George Washington

An individual believed to have died of syphilis, although there is no conclusive evidence.

Franz Schubert

A composer and musician who battled syphilis throughout his career, leading to deteriorated health and death.

Napoleon Bonaparte

A historical figure thought to have suffered from syphilis, potentially leading to his death, possibly exacerbated by arsenic treatment.