Treponema pallidum

Treponema pallidum is a spiral-shaped bacterium belonging to the large spirochete family. It is ultra-mobile thanks to its internal flagella (long filaments hidden inside its body), which allow it to sneak discreetly into the body... to better sow trouble. Its main crime? Syphilis !

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that is transmitted through unprotected sexual contact (vaginal, anal or oral), but also from mother to child during pregnancy, or more rarely through contact with infected wounds or contaminated blood.

The disease progresses in three phases :

1. Primary syphilis (2 to 6 weeks after infection) :
   A small, painless ulcer appears at the site of the bacteria's entry. It heals spontaneously... but don't be fooled: the bacteria lurks in the shadows.

2. Secondary syphilis (weeks to months later) :
   Skin rashes, including on the palms and soles of the feet, fever, swollen glands, fatigue… the bacteria is well and truly awake!

3. Tertiary syphilis (years later, without treatment) :
   It can attack the heart, the brain, the nerves, the bones... with serious, sometimes fatal, consequences .

Fortunately, penicillin treatment is very effective, especially when diagnosed early! Regular screening is recommended for those at risk, and careful prenatal monitoring helps prevent transmission to the fetus.

Add an intriguing twist to your collection! The Treponema pallidum sticker is now available in our shop, a perfect choice for fans of microbiology… and biological twists!

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PUN: I may look like a spring, but I won't bounce out of you system!