Question

The secondary stage of syphilis includes which of the following time periods after the primary stage?

1) 1-3 months
2) 3-6 months
3) 6-12 months
4) 1-2 years

Answer 1

The secondary stage of syphilis usually occurs 4 to 10 weeks after the initial infection and is characterized by skin rashes, fever, and swollen lymph glands, lasting approximately 3 to 6 weeks.

Step-by-step explanation:

The secondary stage of syphilis typically begins about 4 to 10 weeks after the initial infection, once the primary chancre has started to heal. This stage is characterized by a rash on various parts of the body, including the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet, and can also affect mucous membranes. The secondary syphilis stage is marked by systemic symptoms such as skin rashes, fever, swollen lymph glands, and is most contagious. It generally lasts 3 to 6 weeks, but the symptoms can recur in about 25% of cases.