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T. Pallidum Research Paper

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The progression of T. pallidum can be divided into four stages, each exhibiting different characteristics and symptoms. The initial stage of T. pallidum is the Primary Stage, which presents itself with sores in the place that the bacterium and disease entered the body. Round, raised sores called chancres occur but can be difficult to notice based on their location such as the genitals or anus. If an individual is treated, the chancres last 3-6 weeks. Without treatment, the disease will progress to the Secondary stage. The Secondary Stage is characterized by skin rashes that appear red or brown, and do not itch. Chancres can appear up to 6 months following infection White lesions can develop in warm and moist areas such as the mouth or groin. …show more content…

It is possible and common for these rashes to be faint or hard to see, which can cause them to go unnoticed. Symptoms of the secondary stage can include a fever, swollen lymph glands, hair loss, weight loss, and fatigue. Without treatment, the symptoms of the Secondary stage will go away but the disease will progress to the Latent Stage. The Latent Stage is also known as the hidden stage because there are no apparent signs or symptoms present. This stage can last for years. The two types of Latent syphilis include Early Latent Syphilis, which means the initial infection occurred within 12 months, and Late Latent Syphilis which means the infection initially occurred within the last year. The final stage of syphilis is the Tertiary Stage. This possibly fatal stage can harm the organ systems such as the brain, liver, bones, and joints. Appearing between 10 and 30 years, this stage can cause death due to the untreated bacteria. Neurosyphilis, the bacterial invasion of the nervous system, is a result of this untreated bacteria. Neurosyphilis

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