Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. This bacterial infection can lead to various symptoms, and hair loss can be one of its indicators. Early detection and treatment are crucial for managing the infection and its physical effects.
The Link Between Syphilis and Hair Loss
Hair loss associated with syphilis typically occurs during the secondary stage, several weeks to months after initial infection. During this phase, Treponema pallidum bacteria spread throughout the body, triggering a systemic immune response. This inflammatory reaction can extend to hair follicles, disrupting the normal hair growth cycle. The immune system’s activity can cause temporary damage to hair matrix cells, leading to premature shedding.
Characteristics of Syphilis-Related Hair Loss
Syphilis-related hair loss, known as syphilitic alopecia, often presents with distinctive patterns. One common presentation is “moth-eaten” alopecia, characterized by patchy, irregular areas of hair loss on the scalp that resemble damage from moths. Hair loss can also appear as diffuse thinning across the scalp, making hair look uniformly sparse.
Beyond the scalp, thinning or loss may affect eyebrows, eyelashes, and body hair. This hair loss is generally non-scarring, meaning the hair follicles themselves are not permanently destroyed. The underlying scalp skin may appear normal, though a characteristic rash (syphilides) can sometimes be present.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing syphilis involves a physical examination and specific blood tests. Healthcare providers commonly use screening tests like the Rapid Plasma Reagin (RPR) or Venereal Disease Research Laboratory (VDRL) tests, which detect antibodies produced by the body in response to the infection. If these screening tests are reactive, a confirmatory test such as the Fluorescent Treponemal Antibody Absorption (FTA-ABS) or Treponema Pallidum Particle Agglutination (TP-PA) test confirms the presence of Treponema pallidum antibodies. Medical consultation is essential for accurate diagnosis, as symptoms can be non-specific.
Once diagnosed, syphilis is effectively treated with antibiotics, with penicillin being the primary medication. The specific dosage and duration of penicillin treatment depend on the infection stage. For early syphilis, a single intramuscular dose of penicillin G benzathine is often sufficient, per CDC guidelines. For later stages, multiple doses over several weeks may be necessary.
Hair Regrowth After Treatment
Hair regrowth is generally expected for individuals experiencing hair loss due to syphilis, as it is typically a non-scarring form of alopecia. Once the underlying Treponema pallidum infection is effectively treated with antibiotics, inflammatory processes disrupting hair follicles subside. This allows hair follicles to recover and resume their normal growth cycle. Hair regrowth is not immediate and requires patience; it can take several months for noticeable regrowth to occur. Factors like the duration and severity of hair loss before treatment, and individual hair growth cycles, influence the timeline for recovery.