DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENTS

Syphilis is detected by symptoms and verified by one of several tests performed on the blood or spinal fluid, the most common of which is the VDRL (venereal disease research laboratory) test. The preferred drug for treatment is benzathine penicillin, which is given in two injections one week apart for all stages but neurosyphilis. For this advanced stage, the antibiotic is given three times at weekly intervals. Syphilis control includes tracking down all sexual contacts of infected persons and treating those who had contact during the infectious period. Use of condoms offers some protection against contracting syphilis