Final answer:
Late-stage syphilis, known as tertiary syphilis, can cause brain damage resulting in dementia, as well as other severe symptoms potentially leading to death if untreated.
Step-by-step explanation:
True, late-stage syphilis is indeed characterized by damage to the brain in the form of dementia. Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. During its final stage, known as tertiary syphilis, the disease can cause significant damage to internal organs, including the brain. This form of brain damage in tertiary syphilis is referred to as neurosyphilis and can manifest as dementia, as well as other symptoms such as personality changes, paralysis, and seizures. If left untreated, the damage from tertiary syphilis, including neurosyphilis, may be severe enough to cause death. It is critical that syphilis is diagnosed and treated early to prevent progression to this disabling and potentially fatal stage.