Question

Which finding is associated with secondary syphilis?

Painless, papular lesions on the perineum, fingers, and eyelids
Absence of lesions
Deep asymmetrical granulomatous lesions
Well-defined generalized lesions on the palms, soles, and perineum

Answer 1

Secondary syphilis is characterized by well-defined generalized lesions on the palms, soles, and perineum, often starting as a rash and potentially including white, wartlike lesions and swollen lymph nodes.

Step-by-step explanation:

The finding associated with secondary syphilis is well-defined generalized lesions on the palms, soles, and perineum. These lesions typically present as a rash spreading from the palms or soles to the trunk and limbs. They could be macular or papular and may also manifest as mucus patches or white, wartlike lesions called condylomata lata.

Secondary syphilis is characterized by systemic symptoms due to the spread of T. pallidum throughout the body, which includes skin rashes and lesions on mucous membranes, as well as symptoms such as fever and swollen lymph nodes. This stage generally commences about 4 to 10 weeks after the initial infection and is considered the most contagious of all the syphilis stages.