What is syphilis? Causes, symptoms, treatment and prevention.

What is Syphilis?

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum, a type of spirochete bacteria characterized by its spiral shape. This microorganism can enter the human body through mucous membranes or microscopic abrasions, typically found in the genital area, mouth, or rectum.

Once inside the body, the bacteria quickly disseminate into the bloodstream and may affect various organs. Without appropriate treatment, syphilis can progress into more severe stages, potentially damaging the nervous system, brain, heart, and other vital organs.

The symptoms of syphilis vary depending on its stage. In the early phase, the infection may be painless or even asymptomatic, causing many individuals to be unaware of their condition. Moreover, asymptomatic individuals can still transmit the infection to others, making syphilis a significant public health concern that requires regular screening and prompt medical attention.

How is Syphilis Transmitted?

Syphilis is transmitted through direct contact with a syphilitic sore (chancre), which typically appears on the external genitals, vagina, anus, rectum, or in the mouth. The infection is most commonly spread during vaginal, anal, or oral sex.

These sores may be painless and difficult to detect, yet they are highly infectious, particularly during the primary and secondary stages of the disease. Additionally, syphilis can be transmitted via blood exposure—such as sharing needles—or through transfusions with unscreened blood, though the latter is rare due to modern blood safety protocols.

Pregnant individuals who are infected with syphilis can pass the infection to their unborn child through the placenta or during childbirth. This form of transmission results in congenital syphilis, which can cause severe and potentially fatal complications in newborns.

It is important to note that syphilis is not transmitted through casual contact or shared objects such as toilet seats, swimming pools, eating utensils, or hugging. The bacterium requires a moist environment and does not survive long outside the human body.

What Causes Syphilis?

Syphilis is caused by infection with the bacterium Treponema pallidum, a member of the spirochete group of bacteria known for their distinctive spiral shape. This bacterium is highly motile, allowing it to move easily through bodily fluids such as blood and lymph.

Treponema pallidum is extremely sensitive to environmental conditions outside the human body. It cannot survive long in dry, hot, or non-moist environments, and therefore depends on human tissue for survival and reproduction.

The infection occurs when the bacterium enters the body through microscopic abrasions or mucous membranes—often during sexual contact. Even the smallest, invisible cut in the genital, oral, or rectal area can serve as an entry point. Once inside, the organism rapidly disseminates through the bloodstream and can reach vital organs in a short time.

The primary mode of transmission is direct contact with a syphilitic sore during unprotected sexual activity. Less commonly, syphilis may be transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy, or through contaminated needles or unsterilized medical equipment.

What Happens During Primary Syphilis?

The first stage of syphilis, known as Primary Syphilis, is characterized by the appearance of a distinctive sore called a chancre at the site where the bacterium entered the body. This sore typically appears on the genitals, mouth, anus, or any area that had direct sexual contact with an infected person.

A chancre usually develops within 10 to 90 days after exposure. It typically presents as a single, round or oval, firm, and painless ulcer with well-defined edges and a clean base. There is no pus, itchiness, or significant discomfort, which often causes individuals to overlook or ignore it. The sore usually heals on its own within 3 to 6 weeks, even without treatment.

Nearby lymph nodes may become swollen and tender, but systemic symptoms like fever or malaise are generally absent in this stage. Without timely medical intervention, the infection silently progresses into the secondary stage, where it spreads more extensively through the bloodstream.

Symptoms of Syphilis by Stage

Syphilis progresses in well-defined stages, each with distinct clinical manifestations. The four main stages are Primary, Secondary, Latent, and Tertiary. Understanding these stages helps in early detection and timely treatment.

Primary Stage

This stage is marked by the appearance of a chancre—a firm, painless ulcer that typically forms on the genitals, mouth, or rectum. The sore heals spontaneously within a few weeks, even without treatment.

Secondary Stage

Following the resolution of the chancre, the infection enters the bloodstream. This leads to a widespread rash, often involving the palms and soles, and wart-like lesions around the genitals or anus. Some individuals may experience fever, swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, hair loss, or fatigue. These symptoms may also resolve without intervention, but the infection remains active.

Latent Stage

During this asymptomatic phase, no visible symptoms occur. However, serologic tests for syphilis remain positive. This stage can persist for years without noticeable health issues, yet the bacterium remains in the body.

Tertiary Stage

If left untreated, the disease may progress to its most severe form. Tertiary syphilis can damage critical organs, including the brain, nerves, heart, blood vessels, and bones. Potential complications include paralysis, blindness, dementia, hearing loss, and even death.

Are Syphilis Symptoms Different in Women Compared to Men?

Although syphilis is caused by the same pathogen in both sexes, certain differences in symptom presentation may occur due to anatomical and physiological distinctions. These differences can influence detection and timely treatment.

In women, chancres often form in less visible or internal areas such as the vaginal walls or cervix. Because these sores are typically painless, they may go unnoticed, delaying diagnosis and treatment during the early stage. Additionally, rashes associated with secondary syphilis may appear in subtle or hidden areas like the groin, palms, soles, or genital region, often without causing irritation.

In men, chancres are more likely to appear on the external genitalia—such as the glans penis or foreskin—making them easier to detect. Some men may also develop sores on the scrotum, inner thighs, or anus, depending on the nature of exposure.

Regardless of sex, if left untreated, the infection follows the same disease progression and poses equal risk for systemic complications. Early screening and medical consultation are essential for both men and women.

What Is the Difference Between Syphilis and Chancroid?

Syphilis and chancroid are both sexually transmitted infections that can cause genital ulcers, but they are caused by different bacteria and exhibit distinct clinical features, making accurate diagnosis crucial for proper treatment.

Syphilis is caused by Treponema pallidum. In the primary stage, it typically presents as a single, firm, painless ulcer known as a chancre. The sore is round or oval, has well-defined edges, and a clean base. It usually resolves spontaneously within a few weeks without treatment.

In contrast, chancroid is caused by Haemophilus ducreyi. It presents with painful, soft ulcers that often have irregular borders and may exude pus or blood. Multiple ulcers may appear simultaneously. Inguinal lymph nodes may also become swollen, tender, and sometimes form abscesses.

Chancroid tends to progress more aggressively and with more inflammation compared to syphilis. Both conditions are treatable with antibiotics, but laboratory testing is essential to confirm the diagnosis and guide appropriate therapy.

Who Should Get Tested for Syphilis?

Syphilis testing is not limited to individuals with visible symptoms, as many infections remain asymptomatic in the early stages. Proactive screening is essential, especially among those at higher risk or who engage in behaviors that increase the likelihood of transmission.

Individuals who should consider syphilis testing include

• Anyone engaging in unprotected sex, particularly with partners whose STI status is unknown
• Those with multiple or frequent new sexual partners
• Men who have sex with men (MSM), a population with increasing syphilis incidence globally
• Pregnant women, as early detection is crucial to prevent congenital syphilis
• People living with HIV, or individuals whose behaviors put them at similar risk
• Anyone diagnosed with another sexually transmitted infection, such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, or genital herpes

Even in the absence of symptoms, individuals in the above groups are advised to undergo syphilis screening at least annually—or more frequently depending on their specific risk factors.

Is Syphilis Risk Different for Men Who Have Sex with Men (MSM)?

Men who have sex with men (MSM) are recognized as a high-risk group for syphilis infection. Epidemiological data from around the world—including Thailand—have shown a rising trend of syphilis cases within this population over the past decade.

Several factors contribute to this increased risk

• A higher number of sexual partners and more frequent partner changes
• Engagement in anal intercourse, which involves delicate mucosal tissue prone to microscopic tears that facilitate bacterial entry
• Inconsistent use of condoms during sexual activity
• Use of recreational drugs during sex, which can impair judgment and lead to riskier behaviors

Moreover, co-infection with HIV is more common among MSM. The presence of one infection can increase susceptibility to the other due to compromised mucosal integrity and immune function.

Regular syphilis screening is strongly recommended for MSM, particularly those with high-risk sexual behaviors. Early detection and treatment not only protect the individual’s health but also help reduce onward transmission within the community.

Can Syphilis in Pregnant Women Affect the Baby?

Yes, syphilis during pregnancy is a serious medical concern, as the bacterium Treponema pallidum can cross the placenta and infect the fetus at any stage of pregnancy—even if the mother shows no symptoms. This form of transmission is known as congenital syphilis.

Potential effects on the fetus include a wide range of complications:

• Miscarriage or preterm birth
• Stillbirth or neonatal death
• Structural abnormalities such as a prominent forehead, flattened nasal bridge, or deformed teeth
• Neurological issues such as blindness, deafness, or cognitive impairment
• Hepatosplenomegaly, anemia, and failure to thrive

That early screening and timely treatment with appropriate antibiotics—usually penicillin—can prevent these outcomes almost entirely. Treatment is safe during pregnancy and highly effective in eradicating the infection before it reaches the fetus.

The World Health Organization (WHO) and Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health recommend routine syphilis screening for all pregnant women at the first antenatal visit to ensure early detection and intervention.

How Many Types of Syphilis Tests Are There? Which Is Most Accurate?

Syphilis diagnosis primarily relies on blood tests, which are categorized into two main types: screening tests and confirmatory tests. In certain cases, additional diagnostic methods such as lesion sampling or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis may be required depending on the clinical presentation.

1. Screening Tests

Used for preliminary detection of syphilis infection:

• VDRL (Venereal Disease Research Laboratory)
• RPR (Rapid Plasma Reagin)

These tests detect non-specific antibodies and may yield false-positive results. A positive result must be followed by confirmatory testing.

2. Confirmatory Tests

These tests verify positive screening results and include:

• FTA-ABS (Fluorescent Treponemal Antibody Absorption)
• TPPA (Treponema Pallidum Particle Agglutination)
• EIA (Enzyme Immunoassay)

Confirmatory tests have high specificity and are crucial for accurate diagnosis, especially when screening tests yield ambiguous or false-positive results.

3. Lesion-Based Testing

If the patient presents with visible sores, fluid from the lesion may be collected and examined using dark-field microscopy or PCR to detect the organism directly.

4. CSF Analysis

Cerebrospinal fluid testing is indicated in cases where neurosyphilis is suspected, such as when neurological symptoms are present.

Among these, confirmatory tests like FTA-ABS and TPPA are considered the most accurate diagnostic tools for syphilis, and should always be interpreted alongside clinical evaluation by a healthcare provider.

Do You Need to Fast Before a Syphilis Test?

Generally, fasting is not required before a syphilis test. Diagnosis is typically made through a blood test that detects antibodies produced in response to the bacterium Treponema pallidum. The presence of food or drink in the system does not interfere with the accuracy of these results.

However, if you are undergoing other health screenings simultaneously—such as tests for blood sugar or lipid levels—your healthcare provider may recommend fasting for 8 to 12 hours, but this applies to those specific tests, not to syphilis testing.

Even with rapid syphilis tests, there is no need to fast, and the test can be performed at any time of day without dietary restrictions.

For best practices, it’s advisable to follow the specific instructions provided by the clinic or laboratory conducting the test.

How Long Does It Take to Get Syphilis Test Results?

The turnaround time for syphilis test results depends on the testing method used. Generally, there are two main types: rapid testing and standard laboratory testing.

1. Rapid Syphilis Test

This method yields results in just 15 to 30 minutes. It typically involves a finger-prick blood sample and is ideal for individuals who need same-day results.

2. Standard Laboratory Testing

These tests, such as VDRL, RPR, or TPPA, require a venous blood draw and usually take 1 to 3 business days to return results. Turnaround time may vary depending on the hospital or clinic, and whether external labs are used.

If confirmatory testing is required following a positive screening result, an additional 1–2 days may be needed for final diagnosis.

If you’re under time constraints—such as preparing for surgery, pregnancy, or recent high-risk sexual activity—inform the healthcare provider so the most appropriate testing method can be chosen.

How Many Days After Exposure Is a Syphilis Test Accurate?

The accuracy of a syphilis test depends significantly on the time elapsed since exposure. This is due to the incubation period of Treponema pallidum, during which the body begins producing detectable antibodies.

Optimal Testing Window:

The ideal time to test is 3 to 6 weeks (21–42 days) after potential exposure.

Testing earlier than 3 weeks may lead to a false-negative result, as antibody levels might still be too low for detection.

Clinical Recommendation:

• If exposure is suspected, consult a healthcare provider immediately. An initial test may be performed, followed by a repeat test after the incubation period.
• For tests conducted earlier than 3 weeks post-exposure, repeat testing is often advised to confirm accuracy.

Testing during the appropriate time frame increases the likelihood of accurate results and ensures early initiation of treatment if needed.

Is Rapid Syphilis Testing a Good Option?

Rapid Syphilis Testing offers a convenient and fast way to screen for syphilis infection—particularly useful when results are needed quickly, such as before surgery, during pregnancy, or after recent high-risk sexual activity.

Advantages:

• Results within 15–30 minutes
• Requires only a small blood sample from a fingertip
• Ideal for walk-in clinics, mobile screening units, and time-sensitive situations
• Useful as an initial screening tool before undergoing more detailed testing

Important Considerations:

• Rapid tests are screening tools—they provide a preliminary result, and any positive findings should be confirmed with standard lab tests like FTA-ABS or TPPA.
• Early testing (before 3 weeks post-exposure) may lead to false-negative results, especially if antibody levels are not yet detectable.

In summary, rapid testing is an excellent first step in screening for syphilis, but should not replace comprehensive diagnostic testing when accuracy is critical for diagnosis and treatment planning.

How Is Syphilis Diagnosed?

Syphilis diagnosis involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and laboratory testing. Accurate diagnosis is essential to distinguish syphilis from other conditions with similar symptoms.

The standard diagnostic process includes:

1. Sexual and Risk History
   • Inquiry about number of sexual partners, condom use, and known exposures
   • Symptoms such as genital sores, rashes, fever, or swollen lymph nodes
2. Focused Physical Examination
   • Identification of chancre lesions, body rashes, or mucosal ulcers
   • Examination of lymph nodes and neurological signs if applicable
3. Blood Tests
   • Initial screening tests: VDRL or RPR
   • If positive, followed by confirmatory tests: TPPA, FTA-ABS, or EIA
4. Additional Testing in Special Cases
   • Direct testing from lesions using dark-field microscopy or PCR
   • Lumbar puncture for cerebrospinal fluid analysis if neurosyphilis is suspected

For individuals without visible symptoms, blood testing remains the most reliable method. A combination of screening and confirmatory tests is recommended to ensure accurate diagnosis and timely treatment.

How Is Syphilis Treated?

Syphilis is highly treatable, especially when diagnosed early. The mainstay of treatment is Penicillin G, an antibiotic that is highly effective at eradicating Treponema pallidum.

Recommended treatments by stage:

• Primary and Secondary Syphilis (Early Stage): A single intramuscular injection of Benzathine Penicillin G is usually sufficient to eliminate the infection.
• Latent or Tertiary Syphilis: Requires three doses of Benzathine Penicillin G, given once a week for three weeks.
• Neurosyphilis (Central Nervous System involvement): Requires intravenous penicillin for 10–14 days, often administered during a hospital stay.

For patients who are allergic to penicillin, alternative antibiotics like Doxycycline or Azithromycin may be used, though they may be less effective, and follow-up testing is essential to ensure treatment success.

After treatment, follow-up blood tests are scheduled to monitor treatment response and detect any reinfection or treatment failure.

What Medications Are Used to Treat Syphilis? Are There Side Effects?

The primary treatment for syphilis is Penicillin G, a widely recognized and highly effective antibiotic endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO). It is considered the first-line treatment for syphilis at all stages due to its high efficacy in eradicating Treponema pallidum.

Commonly used medications include:

1. Benzathine Penicillin G – Intramuscular injection; used for early and latent stages
2. Aqueous Crystalline Penicillin G – Intravenous injection; indicated for neurosyphilis
3. Doxycycline – Oral antibiotic alternative for patients allergic to penicillin (twice daily for 14–28 days)

Possible side effects:

• Allergic reactions: Rash, itching, or difficulty breathing—especially important for those with penicillin allergy
• Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction: Flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, and muscle aches within 24 hours of starting treatment; typically self-limiting
• Injection site pain: Mild soreness at the intramuscular injection site

The choice of medication depends on the stage of infection, patient allergy history, and overall health. Medical providers tailor treatment to ensure optimal outcomes while minimizing adverse effects.

Can Syphilis Be Cured Completely?

Yes, syphilis is curable when diagnosed and treated properly, especially in its early stages. The infection can be fully eradicated from the body with appropriate antibiotic therapy, most notably Penicillin G, which remains the gold standard in treatment.

For individuals treated during the primary or secondary stage, the likelihood of a full recovery without complications is close to 100%. However, if the infection progresses to the tertiary stage or involves the nervous system (neurosyphilis), treatment can stop the infection but may not fully reverse existing damage—especially neurological symptoms.

Factors for successful cure:

• Early detection and prompt initiation of treatment
• Adherence to the prescribed antibiotic regimen
• Regular follow-up blood tests to confirm treatment success
• Ensuring that sexual partners are also tested and treated

Important note: Being cured of syphilis does not provide immunity. Reinfection is possible if high-risk behaviors continue, such as unprotected sex or contact with an untreated partner.

Can You Get Syphilis Again After Being Cured?

Yes, reinfection with syphilis is possible even after successful treatment. While antibiotics like Penicillin G can completely eliminate the bacteria from the body, the immune system does not develop lasting immunity to Treponema pallidum. This means a person who has been cured can become infected again if exposed to the bacteria.

Common situations leading to reinfection:

• Having unprotected sex with a partner who has syphilis
• A partner not receiving treatment simultaneously, causing reinfection
• Misunderstanding recovery and failing to follow up with retesting or prevention

Even if blood tests confirm treatment success, it does not act like a vaccine—there is no immunity against future exposures. Preventive measures such as consistent condom use, routine STI screenings, and partner notification are essential to reduce the risk of reinfection.

Do You Need to Isolate If You Have Syphilis? Can It Spread to Others?

No, individuals with syphilis are not required to isolate in the same manner as with highly contagious airborne diseases like tuberculosis or COVID-19. However, those in the infectious stages—particularly primary (chancre) and secondary (rash) syphilis—should avoid any sexual activity until treatment is completed and follow-up tests confirm clearance of the infection.

How syphilis is transmitted:

• Spread occurs through direct contact with infectious sores during oral, vaginal, or anal sex
• Can be contagious even without visible symptoms if within the infectious period
• Not transmitted through casual contact, shared toilets, pools, or utensils

Recommended precautions:

• Abstain from sexual activity until cleared by a healthcare provider
• Notify all sexual partners within the past 3 to 12 months (depending on the disease stage) for testing and treatment
• Follow up with blood tests as directed by your provider to confirm successful treatment

What Are the Complications of Untreated Syphilis?

If left untreated, Treponema pallidum can spread throughout the body via the bloodstream, leading to serious and potentially life-threatening complications. These complications can affect multiple organ systems and may result in irreversible damage.

Possible complications include

• Neurosyphilis: Can occur at any stage of infection. Symptoms include headaches, dizziness, memory loss, coordination issues, vision or hearing loss, and partial paralysis.
• Ocular Syphilis: Affects the eyes and may cause blurred vision, double vision, or even permanent blindness.
• Cardiovascular Syphilis: Typically develops during the tertiary stage and may lead to aortic aneurysms, valve defects, or heart failure.
• Congenital Syphilis:
  Occurs when the infection is passed from mother to child during pregnancy. It can result in birth defects, blindness, deafness, or neonatal death.
• Skeletal and Dental Deformities: Late-stage syphilis may lead to abnormalities in bones, the forehead, nasal bridge, teeth, and joints.
• Psychiatric and Cognitive Effects: Advanced neurosyphilis can cause dementia, depression, or dramatic behavioral changes.

Early detection and treatment remain the most effective ways to prevent these complications and ensure full recovery.

How Can Syphilis Be Prevented?

Syphilis prevention involves practical and accessible strategies that focus on reducing risk behaviors, routine health screenings, and open communication between partners. Effective prevention not only protects individuals but also contributes to broader public health efforts.

Recommended prevention methods:

• Consistent and correct condom use: Using condoms during every sexual encounter significantly lowers the risk of contact with infectious sores, though it may not provide complete protection.
• Regular STI screenings: Individuals with higher risk should be tested for syphilis at least annually, or more frequently if they have multiple or new partners.
• Avoid sharing needles or injection equipment: Particularly relevant for individuals using injectable drugs.
• Prenatal syphilis screening: Pregnant women should be screened for syphilis during their first antenatal visit to prevent congenital transmission.

Successful prevention requires a combination of knowledge, awareness, and safe sexual practices to effectively reduce the incidence of syphilis and other STIs.

Are Syphilis and AIDS the Same or Different?

While syphilis and AIDS (caused by HIV) are both sexually transmitted infections and can sometimes occur together in the same individual, they are fundamentally different diseases with distinct causes, mechanisms, and treatment approaches.

Key differences between Syphilis and HIV/AIDS:

Importantly, having syphilis increases the risk of acquiring HIV, as syphilitic sores create open pathways for viral entry. Therefore, syphilis and HIV testing are often recommended together in clinical practice.

Can You Get Syphilis from Kissing or Saliva?

Syphilis is not typically transmitted through saliva alone. However, infection can occur if you kiss someone who has an active syphilitic sore (chancre) in or around the mouth. Treponema pallidum spreads through direct contact with these infectious lesions.

Syphilis transmission via kissing may occur when:

• The infected person has visible or hidden sores in the mouth, on the tongue, gums, or throat
• There is close contact such as deep kissing or oral contact with lesions
• The uninfected person has minor cuts or abrasions in the mouth, providing an entry point for the bacteria

Not likely to cause infection:

• Sharing utensils or cups, or kissing without contact with sores
• Casual exposure to saliva without mucosal breaks or lesions

Although less common than sexual transmission, oral transmission is still possible, especially in the presence of active lesions. Caution and regular STI checks are recommended for sexually active individuals.

Syphilis Testing Prices at Bangkok Safe Clinic

As of 2025, Bangkok Safe Clinic offers clear and affordable pricing for syphilis screening and confirmation tests:

• Syphilis RPR Test (screening only): 400 THB
• Syphilis Treponemal + RPR Package (screening + confirmatory): 700 THB

No additional consultation fee is required beyond the stated prices. You can book your appointment directly through the clinic’s contact channels or online booking system.

Where Should You Get Syphilis Treatment?

If you choose Bangkok Safe Clinic for your syphilis screening and treatment, here are the key advantages:

Expert Care and Professional Service

• Consultations are provided by infectious disease or STI specialist physicians
• On-site laboratory equipped for RPR and Treponemal testing, ensuring quick and reliable results
• Standard Penicillin G antibiotic therapy is administered, with follow-up appointments and blood tests to monitor treatment efficacy

Convenience and Comprehensive Care

• Easy online appointment booking, with additional support via Line and Facebook
• Fast and efficient service, ideal for those needing timely results or treatment
• Pst-treatment guidance and scheduled follow-ups in accordance with Medical Council standards

Frequently Asked Questions about Syphilis

Q1: After successful treatment, can blood tests still be positive?

A: Screenings (RPR/VDRL) usually become negative within 6–12 months. However, treponemal antibody tests (TPPA/FTA-ABS) may remain positive for life, even after the infection is cured. ➡ Regular follow-up testing is essential for confirmation.

Q2: Should I get tested if my partner had syphilis?

A: Yes, testing is highly recommended for both partners. If your partner was treated, get tested again to confirm the cure. ➡ This helps prevent reinfection or ongoing transmission.

Q3: What if I still have symptoms like rash or fever after treatment?

A: Return to the clinic immediately. Symptoms like rash, fever, or sore throat may be part of Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction, but persistent or worsening symptoms require medical evaluation.

Q4: How long is penicillin treatment for late or reinfection stages?

A:

• Late latent/late-stage syphilis: Weekly intramuscular penicillin for 3 weeks
• Reinfection or secondary stage: Additional doses may be required, based on clinical evaluation ➡ Follow-up blood tests help guide appropriate treatment adjustments.

Q5: How much does testing cost?

A: At Bangkok Safe Clinic:

• RPR test: 400 THB
• RPR + Treponemal test: 700 THB ➡ No extra consultation fee and online booking available.

Conclusion

Syphilis is a curable disease—when diagnosed and treated early. However, if ignored, it can progress into severe complications affecting major organs and leading to irreversible damage.

Knowledge, awareness, and responsible sexual practices remain the most effective tools in preventing syphilis and other STIs. This includes consistent condom use, regular health checkups, and honest communication with partners.

If you or someone close to you suspects exposure or is experiencing symptoms, don’t delay. Seek medical attention from a reputable clinic to receive accurate diagnosis and timely treatment—before the disease advances beyond control.