PRIMER SYPHILIS

Rosanna W. Peeling, David Mabey, Mary L. Kamb, Xiang-Sheng Chen, Justin D. Radolf, Adele S. Benzaken

Syphilis, caused by Treponema pallidum subspecies pallidum, is a sexually transmitted infection that can also be transmitted vertically during pregnancy. The disease has a long latent period and can lead to severe health outcomes, including stillbirths and neonatal deaths, particularly in developing countries. Despite effective treatment options, syphilis is re-emerging as a significant public health issue, especially among men who have sex with men (MSM) in high-income countries. The document calls for enhanced research, improved diagnostics, and stronger public health measures to combat this persistent infection.