Several hours following treatment of early stages of syphilis, some individuals may undergo a febrile reaction called Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction. This is thought to be caused by the release into the circulation of material from dead or dying spirochetes. Symptoms of this reaction include:
Individuals with primary or secondary syphilis should abstain from sex until they have been treated. Syphilis is extremely contagious in the primary and secondary stages.
Expectations (prognosis):
Late syphilis may be permanently disabling and may lead to death.
Untreated syphilis can result in serious health problems. It is imperative that you inform your physician of the possibility of having had syphilis previously, even if it was many years ago.
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