Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. While casual kissing typically does not transmit syphilis, direct contact with active syphilis sores, especially during deep or passionate kissing, can lead to infection.
Understanding Syphilis Transmission
Syphilis primarily spreads through direct contact with a syphilis sore, known as a chancre, during sexual activity. This includes vaginal, anal, or oral sex where skin-to-skin or mucous membrane contact with the sore takes place. The bacteria enter the body through minor cuts, scrapes, or the moist linings of the genitals, anus, or mouth.
The infection is highly contagious during its primary and secondary stages, when sores, ulcers, or rashes are present. However, syphilis is generally not transmitted through casual contact with objects like toilet seats, doorknobs, or shared utensils because the bacterium cannot survive for long outside the human body. Everyday interactions like sharing food or light kissing usually do not pose a risk of transmission.
Syphilis and Oral Contact
Transmission of syphilis through oral contact, such as deep or passionate kissing, is possible only if active syphilis sores are present on the lips, in the mouth, or on the throat of an infected individual. If these sores come into direct contact with the mucous membranes or broken skin of another person’s mouth, the bacteria can be transmitted. Deep kissing increases the potential for contact with these sores, thereby elevating the risk of infection.
A chancre, the initial symptom of syphilis, is typically a firm, round, and painless sore. These sores can develop anywhere the bacteria entered the body, including the genitals, anus, mouth, or lips. Oral chancres may appear as one or multiple sores on the inner lips, tongue, or other areas of the mouth. These sores can sometimes be mistaken for other conditions or go unnoticed due to their painless nature.
Recognizing Syphilis Symptoms
A chancre, the initial symptom of syphilis, typically appears about three weeks after exposure, though this can range from 10 to 90 days. These sores develop at the site where the bacteria entered the body.
Chancres are often painless and can be hidden, such as inside the vagina, rectum, or under the foreskin, making them easy to miss. Even if left untreated, these sores usually heal on their own within three to six weeks. However, the infection remains in the body and will progress to later stages if not treated. Secondary syphilis symptoms, which may include a rough, reddish-brown rash on the palms and soles, can appear later.
Seeking Medical Advice
If there is a suspicion of syphilis exposure or if symptoms such as a painless sore appear, seeking medical advice is important. Healthcare providers can diagnose syphilis through blood tests, which detect antibodies to the Treponema pallidum bacteria, or by taking a fluid sample directly from a sore. Early diagnosis allows for prompt treatment with antibiotics, such as penicillin G, which effectively kills the bacteria.
Treatment is important for preventing the progression of syphilis to more severe stages, which can cause serious damage to organs like the heart, brain, and nervous system. For individuals with a penicillin allergy, alternative antibiotics like doxycycline or tetracycline may be considered. Consulting a healthcare professional ensures accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.