On 10/4, Doctor Duong Thi Thuy Quynh, from the Department of Male Dermatological Diseases Treatment at Central Dermatology Hospital, reported that a 20-year-old patient was admitted with symptoms including white plaques, swelling, and purulent discharge on his glans and foreskin, along with mild burning pain. Tests confirmed syphilis, with a possible superinfection, and screened for other sexually transmitted infections. Microscopic examination identified gram-positive cocci and gram-negative bacilli, while an ultrasound revealed bilateral inguinal lymphadenopathy. After three days of treatment, the patient's condition stabilized.
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease caused by the spirochete Treponema pallidum. It spreads primarily through sexual contact, but can also transmit via blood or from mother to child. The disease can affect the skin, mucous membranes, and various organs, including muscles, bones, joints, the cardiovascular system, and the nervous system. It can lead to severe complications such as neurosyphilis, cardiovascular syphilis, and congenital syphilis.
The World Health Organization reports approximately 7 million new adult syphilis cases globally each year. In Vietnam, syphilis accounts for 2-5% of all sexually transmitted infections. Its prevalence among patients seeking STI care is 4.0%, and among sex workers, it is 4.5%.
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Syphilis-causing spirochete. Photo:dissolve |
Syphilis-causing spirochete. Photo:dissolve
Doctor Quach Thi Ha Giang, Head of the Department of Male Dermatological Diseases Treatment, emphasized that unprotected sexual contact carries a high risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections, including syphilis. Both men and women are susceptible without protection. Due to a weak immune response to syphilis, individuals who have been treated and cured can still be reinfected if they continue to engage in unprotected sexual activity.
Furthermore, if undetected and untreated, the disease can manifest years, even decades, later, causing irreversible sequelae. These include neurosyphilis, which can lead to meningitis, cranial nerve paralysis, and increased intracranial pressure; myelitis, resulting in paralysis; and inflammation of the sclera, iris, and uvea, significantly impacting the patient's health.
These risks extend beyond the infected individual, affecting partners and potentially causing severe complications during pregnancy for both the fetus and newborn. Therefore, syphilis testing is crucial for all pregnant women at their first prenatal visit. This ensures early detection, timely treatment, and prevention of mother-to-child transmission.
Individuals who have engaged in unprotected sexual contact should proactively seek early examination at specialized medical facilities if they notice any unusual symptoms. This ensures proper and complete treatment according to established protocols. Self-treating or using unverified herbal remedies and topical medications is strongly discouraged, as it can worsen the condition.
To prevent and minimize disease risks, active health education campaigns are essential to raise community awareness. The public should be encouraged to adopt healthy lifestyles and practice safe sex to prevent long-term complications.
Le Nga
