Prevalence of Syphilis Disease Throughout Some Expatriate Workers in Iraq

Abstract

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the spirochete Treponema pallidum. Syphilis has been a major infection in man throughout recorded history and has challenged clinicians with its many clinical manifestations. It can also spread to other people by kissing or close body contact. The disease begins with sores and then could spread to other parts of the body through its stages (primary, secondary, tertiary and latent stages) and can also reaches heart and nervous system and it may be fatal. The data on this disease in Iraq is limited and literatures are scanty. A total of 70 sera samples were collected from expatriates working in Iraq. Detection of syphilis antibodies were performed by non-treponemal tests and confirmed by treponemal tests (TPHA) using miniVIDAS device. Thirty percent of cases were positive for syphilis. We conclude that the syphilis cases are continuously increasing. A serious reaction must be taken immediately for assessing protective measures.