Syphilis in Lagos: Signs, Stages, Testing and Treatment

From Mascot Healthcare Clinic, Akoka (Yaba), Lagos

Hello Friend! Syphilis has a reputation as an "old" disease, but it's very much still with us — and cases are rising in many places. The good news is that it's completely curable with antibiotics when caught in time. The danger lies in ignoring it, because syphilis is a master of disguise that can go quiet for years while still doing harm. Here's what you need to know.

What Is Syphilis?

Syphilis is a bacterial infection spread mainly through sexual contact, and it can also pass from a pregnant mother to her baby. It moves through distinct stages, and the symptoms — when they appear at all — change at each one. Many people miss the early signs entirely.

The Stages of Syphilis

• Primary: a single, usually painless sore (called a chancre) where the bacteria entered. Because it doesn't hurt, it's easy to overlook — and it heals on its own, fooling people into thinking the problem is gone.
• Secondary: a skin rash (often on the palms and soles), mild fever, sore throat and swollen lymph nodes. These also fade without treatment.
• Latent: no symptoms at all — sometimes for years — while the infection quietly remains.
• Late (tertiary): if still untreated, it can eventually damage the heart, brain, nerves and other organs.

The key takeaway: symptoms disappearing does not mean the infection is gone. Only testing and treatment clear it.

Why It Matters in Pregnancy

Syphilis in pregnancy can cause serious harm to the baby, which is why it's a standard part of antenatal and premarital screening. Treating it early protects both mother and child.

Testing and Treatment

A simple blood test detects syphilis, usually from about three to six weeks after exposure. It's included in every one of our STI test packages. When found, syphilis is treated and cured with antibiotics — and we'll recommend your partner is tested and treated too. Learn more about our dedicated syphilis test and treatment service.

For the bigger picture, see our complete guide to STI testing in Lagos, or learn how long after exposure to test. We're beside UNILAG at 52 Sholanke Street, Akoka.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Lawal Taiye (MBBS, Ibadan) — Mascot Healthcare Clinic, Akoka, Lagos. This article is for general education and does not replace a personal consultation.