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Can Syphilis Be Contracted A Second Time?
If a male in his twenties had syphillis and was treated for it, could it show up as being positive for it again in his late 70s? Would there be medical illnesses now at this age due to the syphillis he had in his twenties? Should he be tested again for syphillis?
posted on
Sun, 6 Aug 2017
Medically reviewed by
Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team
Thu, 21 Sep 2017
Answered on
Thu, 21 Sep 2017
Last reviewed on
Hi,
Welcome to HCM.
There are many probabilities!.
1.Syphilis does not offer a life long immunity, reinfection is quite possible with a fresh exposure.
2. Even after complete treatment, certain specific tests for syphilis remain reactive for ever (life long), that does not warrant any further treatment.
3. Syphilis acquired at the age of twenties, if not treated, can either go for late manifestations at any age (even at seventies) or remain symptom-less for ever!
Dr S.Murugan
Welcome to HCM.
There are many probabilities!.
1.Syphilis does not offer a life long immunity, reinfection is quite possible with a fresh exposure.
2. Even after complete treatment, certain specific tests for syphilis remain reactive for ever (life long), that does not warrant any further treatment.
3. Syphilis acquired at the age of twenties, if not treated, can either go for late manifestations at any age (even at seventies) or remain symptom-less for ever!
Dr S.Murugan
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