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Syphilis is a highly contagious sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can cause serious and permanent health problems if it is not treated early. At OC MedDerm Dermatology in Irvine, Orange County, CA, we provide confidential syphilis testing, diagnosis, and treatment in a discreet and judgment-free medical setting.
Syphilis typically begins as a localized skin infection (Stage 1), progresses to widespread skin involvement (Stage 2), and—if left untreated—can damage the heart, liver, and nervous system (Stages 3 and 4) years later. Early diagnosis is critical to prevent long-term complications.
Syphilis is caused by a spiral-shaped bacteria called Treponema pallidum
Syphilis is transmitted through unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an infected person. Infection can occur even when sores are not noticed. Because early sores are often painless and transient, many people may unknowingly spread or contract syphilis.
Symptoms of syphilis vary depending on the stage of infection. The disease progresses through four stages, each with distinct clinical features.
Syphilis can initially present as a single or multiple small painless sores on the genital area. At this stage of the disease, an infected individual may not notice or take the sores seriously since they will heal over a few weeks even if they are not diagnosed and treated.
Unfortunately, the sores may recur as a widespread rash 2 to 8 weeks later after the initial genital sore outbreak.
Syphilis at stage 1 or 2 is still treatable and easy to diagnose by an experienced physician.
If syphilis is not treated early, it can progress to Stage 3 and Stage 4, sometimes years after the initial infection.
At these stages, permanent organ damage may occur, and treatment outcomes are limited. Early diagnosis is the most important factor in preventing irreversible complications.
If you have a sore on the genital area or scattered bumps on your body, you may want to give us a call to be seen, tested, and treated if the diagnosis of syphilis is made. You don’t want to be diagnosed when you have heart and brain disease as the result of a syphilis infection!!!
Accurate diagnosis begins with evaluation by a physician experienced in sexually transmitted infections. At OC MedDerm, Dr. Shafa will:
Testing accuracy ranges from 80% to nearly 100%, depending on the stage of infection.
You may transfer this infection to your sex partner, and neither of you may be aware of it until the disease is advanced. At OC MedDerm, we will educate you about the risks and offer treatment to your sex partner if needed.
Syphilis is highly curable with the right antibiotic therapy. Early treatment typically requires a single dose, while later stages may require multiple doses. Most patients recover fully when treated promptly.
Abstaining from vaginal, anal, or oral sex completely eliminates the risk of syphilis infection.
If you are sexually active, you can do the following to diminish your risk:
As mentioned above, early syphilis can present with a small, painless sore in the genital area, and an infected person may never be aware of being infected and positive for syphilis. Therefore, in a sexual relationship, it is difficult to find out who gave it to whom and when. Dr. Shafa recommends that sex partners be open-minded regarding this rising STD in the U.S. and be happy that the treatment of syphilis is very easy and highly successful if it is caught in the early stages of the disease.
Dr. Shafa recommends that both sex partners be tested and treated at the same time. Both sex partners should also be retested 3 months after the treatment of syphilis infection to ensure it has completely resolved.
There is a high chance that you can be infected with more than one STD at the same time. This is because open sores allow other bacteria or viruses to invade the body. Therefore, it is wise that you and your sex partner be tested for all other silent STDs if you are positive for one.
Dr. Shafa recommends that any patient with one STD be tested for all other common STDs. This is done for the patient’s and the doctor’s peace of mind.
Contact OC MedDerm (Irvine Skin) Dermatology in Irvine, Orange County immediately if you notice:
Phone: (949) 551-1113
Book online: https://irvineskin.com/inquiry-now/
Primary syphilis may present with a painless sore, while secondary syphilis can cause a rash. Testing is required for an accurate diagnosis.
Yes — syphilis is curable with antibiotics in the early stages. Later stages may be harder to treat and can result in permanent damage if untreated.
Yes. Sexual partners should be evaluated and treated as needed to prevent reinfection and further spread.
Yes. OC MedDerm provides fully confidential syphilis testing, diagnosis, and counseling.
Retesting is usually recommended around 3 months after treatment to confirm cure. Your provider will advise the exact timing based on your case.
Book a consultation at OC Medderm | Irvineskin Today for Medical, Surgical, and Cosmetic Dermatology in Irvine & Orange County, CA.
We are experts in Acne, Pinch blepharoplasty, Ear lobe repair, Xanthelasma repair, Syringomas removal, mole removal, Keloid removal, Body and face piecing or piercing repair or removal, lump and bumps removal, Acne scar removal, Spider vein treatment, fungal infection, Co2 resurfacing, Warts and more.
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