Meaning & Definition of word "Syphilis"

Syphilis

/ˈsɪf.ə.lɪs/

1. A sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum, characterized by sores, rashes, and signs of systemic involvement.
- Example: He was diagnosed with syphilis after experiencing unusual sores.
2. The disease can progress through several stages, including primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary syphilis.
- Example: Secondary syphilis often presents with a rash and flu-like symptoms.
3. Syphilis can cause serious health problems if left untreated, including damage to the heart and brain.
- Example: It is crucial to treat syphilis early to prevent long-term complications.
4. The prevalence of syphilis has increased in certain populations in recent years.
- Example: Public health campaigns aim to raise awareness about the risks of syphilis.
5. Syphilis can be effectively treated with antibiotics, especially in its early stages.
- Example: After testing positive for syphilis, she received treatment and successfully cleared the infection.

The term 'syphilis' comes from a poem written in 1530 by Giovanni Battista Morgagni, where it was first used to describe the disease.

The great pox:

A historical term for syphilis due to its severity.

Chancre:

The primary sore associated with the first stage of syphilis.

Secondary syphilis:

The second stage characterized by skin rashes.

Treponema pallidum:

The bacterium that causes syphilis.

chancre:

The ulcer that appears in the primary stage of syphilis.

antibiotic:

A type of medication used to treat syphilis.

Meaning: The pox

Example Sentence: He joked about catching 'the pox' at the party, not realizing he might actually mean syphilis.

Meaning: Bad blood

Example Sentence: Some people refer to syphilis as bad blood in certain circles.