Latent syphilis
Latent Syphilis
Latent syphilis (/ˈleɪtənt ˈsɪfɪlɪs/) is a stage of syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. The term "latent" refers to the period where the disease is present in the body but not producing any symptoms.
Etymology
The term "latent" originates from the Latin word "latens" which means "lying hidden". "Syphilis" is named after the character Syphilus from the poem Syphilis sive morbus gallicus by Girolamo Fracastoro.
Definition
Latent syphilis is characterized by the absence of symptoms despite the presence of the Treponema pallidum bacterium in the body. This stage can last for years and is divided into two sub-stages: early latent syphilis and late latent syphilis.
Early Latent Syphilis
Early latent syphilis is the stage that occurs within the first year of infection. During this stage, the disease can still be transmitted to others, even though there are no visible symptoms.
Late Latent Syphilis
Late latent syphilis, also known as asymptomatic latent syphilis, is the stage that occurs after the first year of infection. During this stage, the disease is less likely to be transmitted to others, but can still cause serious health problems if not treated.
Related Terms
- Primary syphilis: The first stage of syphilis, characterized by a single sore or multiple sores at the location where syphilis entered the body.
- Secondary syphilis: The second stage of syphilis, characterized by skin rashes and mucous membrane lesions.
- Tertiary syphilis: The third and most severe stage of syphilis, which can damage multiple organ systems, including the brain, nerves, eyes, heart, blood vessels, liver, bones, and joints.
- Congenital syphilis: Syphilis that is passed from a pregnant woman to her baby.
- Neurosyphilis: A severe form of syphilis that affects the nervous system.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Latent syphilis
- Wikipedia's article - Latent syphilis
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