What is syphilis caused by?

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that can cause serious health problems if it is not treated. Syphilis is divided into stages (primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary). There are different signs and symptoms associated with each stage. read more

Syphilis was once a major public health threat, commonly causing serious long-term health problems such as arthritis, brain damage, and blindness. read more

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted bacterial infection. It is treatable in the early stages. Without treatment, it can lead to disability, neurological disorders, and death. It is caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum (T. pallidum). There are three stages: Primary, secondary, and tertiary. read more

Syphilis is a highly contagious disease spread primarily by sexual activity. Learn more about syphilis from the experts at WebMD. read more

Causes. Syphilis is caused when T. pallidum transfers from one person to another during sexual activity. It can also be passed from mother to a fetus during pregnancy, or to an infant during delivery. This is called congenital syphilis. It cannot spread through shared contact with objects like doorknobs and toilet seats. read more