Cardiovascular syphilis
Content provided by Healthwise
Cardiovascular syphilis
Cardiovascular syphilis refers to the infection of the heart and related blood vessels by the syphilis bacteria. This complication usually begins as an inflammation of the arteries. Destruction caused by cardiovascular syphilis can be life-threatening.
Complications of cardiovascular syphilis include:
- Narrowing of the blood vessels that supply blood to the heart, which may lead to chest pain (angina), heart attack, and possibly death.
- Damage to heart valves that may lead to heart failure.
- Aortic aneurysm. If a vessel becomes weak enough, it can rupture and cause death.
Antibiotic treatment cures the syphilis infection and stops the progress of cardiovascular syphilis. But the damage that has already occurred may not be reversed.
Credits
| Author | Kathe Gallagher, MSW |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman, MATC |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Jeanne Marrazzo, MD, MPH - Infectious Disease |
| Last Updated | October 2, 2007 |
| Last updated: | October 02, 2007 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Kathe Gallagher, MSW |
| Reviewed By: | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Jeanne Marrazzo, MD, MPH - Infectious Disease |
| Editors: | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC |
© 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.
Search
Where Does it Hurt?
If you're experiencing aches and pains we can help you find answers. Find out what your symptoms mean for your health.
