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REVIEW

Syphilis transmission: a review of the current evidence

Juliet E. Stoltey A C and Stephanie E. Cohen B
+ Author Affiliations
- Author Affiliations

A University of California, San Francisco – Division of Infectious Diseases, 513 Parnassus Avenue, Box 0654, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA.

B San Francisco Department of Public Health, 356 7th Street, San Francisco, CA 94103, USA.

C Corresponding author. Email: juliet.stoltey@ucsf.edu

Sexual Health 12(2) 103-109 https://doi.org/10.1071/SH14174
Submitted: 31 August 2014  Accepted: 22 December 2014   Published: 23 February 2015

Abstract

Syphilis remains widespread worldwide, with increasing rates among men who have sex with men. This paper reviews available evidence regarding syphilis transmission, including data on: sexual transmission (transmission probability per sexual partnership), vertical transmission, transmission via blood products and organ donation, and other rare modes of transmission. In addition, host susceptibility to syphilis infection is discussed. Syphilis screening and treatment, condoms and risk-reduction counselling and how they modify syphilis transmission dynamics are considered.


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