What are some common symptoms of syphilis from onset through progression?
This first stage of syphilis is characterized by a lesion (or chancre) which normally forms around the genital region. In about half of the cases reported the lesion has a raised, firm red border. The chancre is generally a dark pink color and does not bleed easily. It must be stressed that the appearance of this chancre can vary greatly. Furthermore, it is not necessarily a single lesion; multiple lesions may exist but are less common. If the lesion is untreated, it may heal on its own. However, without the attention of a physician the disease will progress. The Secondary Stage Once the primary lesion has healed, new symptoms will affect the patient. Secondary lesions are likely to form. These lesions are normally on the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet but it is possible for them to form in other areas as well. Other symptoms include a sore throat, low-grade fever, headache and a rash. The appearance and location of the rash is highly variable; it does not itch and is not