Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) of obscure origins, a spotty history and massive impact. In the Renaissance its effects are horrendous. Discovery of bacteria in the 19th century opens the way to a cure.
Jump to: Syphilis Symptoms
A sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum, syphilis has a long history. It's influenced by manifestations of the disease, society and medical understanding over the centuries.
The origins of syphilis are still a matter of debate. The infection is thought to first appear in Europe in the late 15th century, following the voyages of Christopher Columbus to the Americas.
This theory posits the bacterium exists in the New World, brought back to Europe to burst out in an epidemic. Earliest recorded clinical descriptions come from the early 1500s.
The first extensive recorded outbreak in Europe occurs after a French army returns from its invasion of Italy in 1495. With no understanding of the disease, cases rapidly escalate.
The name "syphilis" is popularized by Italian poet Girolamo Fracastoro. It appears in his 1530 poem "Syphilis, sive morbus Gallicus" ("Syphilis, or the French Disease").
Fracastoro tells the story of a shepherd named Syphilus, who is punished by the gods, becoming afflicted with the disease. This brings the term into common use and presents syphilis as both a medical and moral issue.
Some experts believe syphilis exists in Europe long before the 1490s, possibly under different names and a wide variety of symptoms. This suggests symptoms might be misdiagnosed earlier in history.
In the times following its emergence, syphilis is called the "French disease," "Italian disease," or "Spanish disease," depending on the region. Venereal ailments are linked to promiscuity and moral failure.
During the Renaissance, one in seven people has syphilis. It's a devastating affliction in some ways resembling the Black Plague, as skin would fester and fall off. Sufferers don't help the situation.
They rub mercury into wounds and even bathe in the toxic stuff. Mercury is known to have side effects but it's also prescribed in small amounts to treat illness. Desperate people believe more is better.
Besides physical trauma, syphilis turn afflicted people into social pariahs throughout history. This perception creates a damaging cycle of shame.
As scientific knowledge advances in the 19th century, understanding of syphilis evolves. In 1905, German scientists Fritz Schaudinn and Erich Hoffmann identify Treponema pallidum as the cause of syphilis.
The landmark discovery gives an understanding of transmission and pathology of syphilis. Simultaneously, the disease emerges as a public health concern.
With rise of urbanization and accompanying social changes during the later Industrial Revolutions, cases surge. Governments start campaigns to fight the spread of syphilis, using screening and education.
The discovery of penicillin by Alexander Fleming in 1928 revolutionizes the treatment of syphilis, as well as many other infectious diseases. By the 1940s, medical professionals recognize penicillin as an effective cure.
Syphilis goes from a once life-threatening condition to a manageable one. After penicillin becomes standard treatment, syphilis-related deaths drop by up to 90%. Despite this medical breakthrough, societal views linger.
Syphilis is seen as a mark of moral failing. While penicillin significantly increases survival rates, it does not dismantle the social perceptions tied to the infection.
During the two World Wars, syphilis becomes a significant issue among soldiers. Efforts to control the disease include educational campaigns, distribution of prophylactics, and treatment programs.
In 21st century syphilis resurges. Rates climb in many parts of the world, especially in the US and Europe. Today, syphilis is effectively treatable with antibiotics, particularly benzathine penicillin G.
Syphilis may come and go as the disease progresses through various stages. Some people may not exhibit any symptoms but still have the condition. The infection can be transmitted for a week following treatment.
Syphilis Symptoms
Primary syphilis (first stage):
usually lasts around 21 days
a round, painless, usually hard sore (chancre) appears on the genitals, anus or elsewhere
the chancre may not be noticed and will heal in 3–10 days
progresses to the second stage if untreated
Secondary syphilis:
includes a non-itchy rash, usually on the palms and soles of the feet
white or grey lesions appear in warm and moist areas, such as the labia or anus, at the site of the chancre
symptoms will go away without treatment
Latent syphilis:
often has no symptoms
progresses to the third and final stage of syphilis (tertiary) after years if untreated
tertiary syphilis can lead to brain disease such as dementia, and cardiovascular diseases
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