10 Syphilis Symptoms
Article Sources
- 1. Sexually Transmitted Disease Surveillance 2018. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. - https://www.cdc.gov/std/stats18/syphilis.htm
- 2. Headache Classification Committee of the International Headache Society (HIS). The International Classification of Headache Disorders, 3rd Edition (ICHD-3) – www.ichd-3.org
8. Neck Stiffness
Neck rigidity is defined as difficulty or inability to properly move the neck due to stiffness and/or pain. It is a non-specific symptom that can be associated with many conditions but it is particularly relevant in cases where meningitis or meningeal irritation is suspected. It is important to know that having a stiff neck is not necessarily associated with an infection of the central nervous system. Many other conditions can cause neck stiffness; therefore, it is important to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis.
For patients with syphilis, a stiff neck might be a sign that the infection has reached the central nervous system in a condition known as neurosyphilis. This may happen at any stage of the disease but it is usually seen in tertiary syphilis. Meningitis caused by a syphilis infection is a very serious complication that requires urgent medical care.
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