Syphilis, one of the oldest sexually transmitted infections documented by medicineis undergoing a resurgence in Argentina that challenges both health systems and the cultural habits of contemporary life. Already described in the 15th and 16th centuries as a devastating disease that affected around 15 percent of the European population, it was for centuries synonymous with progressive physical deterioration, social stigmatization and death.
The appearance of penicillin in the first half of the 20th century transformed its prognosis and relegated itfor decades, into the territory of controllable diseases. However, it was never eradicated. Today, in the 21st century, it once again occupies a central place on the health agenda.
In Argentina, the most recent epidemiological data confirm a sustained and accelerated growth in cases. In 2025, record numbers were reached, with more than 55 thousand confirmed diagnoses in the general population and an increase that exceeds 70 percent compared to previous years. The trend does not distinguish gender, sexual orientation or socioeconomic level. Syphilis circulates in all strata and is especially concentrated in young people and sexually active adults, with peaks in the 15 to 39 age range, and a particularly high incidence between 20 and 24 years of age.
Scientific term. Caused by the bacteria Treponema pallidum, syphilis is transmitted mainly through direct unprotected sexual contact with an infected person, when the person has infectious lesions in areas such as the genitals, rectum or mouth. There is also mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy and childbirth, known as congenital syphilis, which can have dramatic consequences if not diagnosed and treated in time.
The epidemiological curve published by the National Ministry of Health shows a sustained increase in cases since 2011, with a marked acceleration since 2015. In 2025, 55,183 confirmed syphilis diagnoses were reached in the general population, the highest number in the last five years and an increase of 71 percent compared to the median for the 2020-2024 period. In the same year, cases among pregnant women also grew by about 10% compared to the median in previous years.
This statistical leap not only represents numbers but also lives affected, bringing to the forefront of public health an infection that, despite having a simple treatment with antibiotics when detected in time, can evolve into serious complications if there is no intervention. The increasing rate of infections forces us to reflect on sexual practices, access to prevention methods and health priorities.
Symptoms. Syphilis has a complex clinical course. After an incubation period of between 10 and 90 days, it usually begins with a single, painless and circumscribed lesion, the chancre, at the site where the bacteria entered. This ulceration, typical of the primary stage, can go unnoticed and disappear without treatment, while the infection continues its course.
In the secondary stage, weeks or months later, skin rashes may appear on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, swollen glands, fever and general malaise. When the infection is not treated, it enters a latent phase and can evolve decades later into more severe manifestations that include irreversible neurological and cardiovascular conditions.
To better understand what is happening, infectious disease doctor María Delfina Rimoldiwho works in reference centers in Buenos Aires, points out that “the increase in cases reflects a combination of social and behavioral factors, but also public policies.” According to his diagnosis, the decrease in the use of condoms and the false sense of security generated by strategies such as pre-exposure prophylaxis against HIV – very effective for this virus, but which does not protect against other STIs – have contributed to syphilis spreading more quickly. “In addition,” he adds, “there are barriers to access to early diagnosis and treatment in many sectors of the population, and that deepens community transmission.”
In it Muñiz Hospitala reference center for infectious diseases, the phenomenon is experienced in real time. Since the beginning of the year, the Sexually Transmitted Diseases service opened a specific registry to document each diagnosis. There are around 50 cases of infectious syphilis per month, a figure that, according to medical estimates, implies at least ten undetected infections for each confirmed case.. Some patients consult due to the presence of the classic chancre, a painless lesion on the genitals, anus or mouth. Others arrive with skin rashes, reddish spots on the trunk, hands or soles of the feet. Many do not present symptoms and come only because they had sexual contact with an infected person.
Consequences. The progression of the disease has consequences beyond visible symptoms. Without treatment, syphilis can damage vital tissues and organs. In its advanced stages, it can affect the central nervous and cardiovascular systems, increasing the risk of severe complications and, in some cases, mortality. Congenital syphilis, when not detected during pregnancy, can lead to fetal death, premature birth and serious consequences for the newborn.
Regarding the geographical distribution within Argentina, the phenomenon is not homogeneous. Provinces such as Córdoba lead the incidence rates per 100 thousand inhabitants, followed by jurisdictions of the NEA, Cuyo and the South. In some regions of the Argentine Northwest, such as Tucumán, a proportional increase in cases is observed that exceeds 50 percent compared to previous years, while in Entre Ríos the notification rate grew around 72 percent in 2025, far exceeding the national average. The socioeconomic context plays an undeniable role. Sectors with less access to comprehensive sexual education, health services and prevention methods face additional barriers to diagnosis and treatment. In this scenario, the lack of provision of basic supplies, such as free condoms, and the reduction of educational programs have been pointed out by experts as factors that amplify transmission.
Syphilis prevention is clear in theory and, even more so, in practice: consistent use of condoms in all forms of sexual contact, carrying out periodic screening tests, especially for new partners or relationships without a protective barrier, and medical consultation in the event of any suspicious sign. Rapid tests allow results to be obtained in less than an hour, facilitating timely diagnosis and interrupting chains of transmission. Furthermore, early detection during pregnancy is crucial to avoid congenital syphilis. Prenatal check-ups should include syphilis testing from the first visits, with immediate treatment in case of positivity.
The comprehensive strategy involves not only clinical care but also sexual education campaigns that address the practices and realities of young people, dismantle myths and promote informed decisions. At the end of 2025, while cases exceed historical records and health systems seek to adapt to the growing demand for treatments, syphilis emerges as a wake-up call. A curable infection that has reappeared strongly demands a response that combines science, prevention campaigns and the promotion of frank conversation about sexuality and protection.
