What are the common symptoms of Syphilis in its primary stage?

Study for the NCLEX STD Exam. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions that include hints and detailed explanations to help you succeed. Get ready for your exam!

In the primary stage of syphilis, the most notable symptom is the appearance of a painless sore known as a chancre at the site of infection. This sore typically occurs about three weeks after exposure to the bacterium Treponema pallidum, which causes syphilis. The chancre is usually round, firm, and can vary in size. It may be found on the genitals, anus, or mouth, depending on where the infection occurred.

This symptom is critical for diagnosis, as it is a hallmark sign of primary syphilis and helps distinguish it from other sexually transmitted infections. While other symptoms can arise in various stages of syphilis or in different infections, the painless nature of the chancre in primary syphilis is particularly significant in prompting both patients and healthcare providers to seek further evaluation and treatment.

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