Syphillus and HIV

[Nclpom]

Hello, thank you in advance for answering my question.

11 days ago I had received unprotected real sex from an unknown male (I am also male).  The old cliche I had too much too drink and now extremely regret it.  

My question is what are the chances of acquiring syphillus this way and if I was to acquire it can you get HIV a the same time.  I noticed a white spot on my cheek with a tiny black top to it and am now terrified I a infected with something.

Many thanks.

[Edward W Hook, MD]

It is possible but remains unlikely.  Since you cannot stop worrying, I suggest you get tested for syphilis.  When you get the result which I anticipate will be negative, then please believe the result.  If you had syphilis the test would be positive.

This will end this threa.  EWH

[Nclpom]

Hi, sorry to trouble you once again, but my palms have developed a red rash and are hot to touch and have remained like this for the last 18 hours.  They are symmetrical in nature.  Could this be secondary stage syphillis.

Thanks

[Edward W Hook, MD]

Syphilis is rarely transmitted through oral sex.  It is commonly transmitted through rectal intercourse.

This will end this thread.  EWH

[Nclpom]

And what would be the chance of acquiring HIV through this type of contact?

[Nclpom]

Thanks Dr Hook.

One last question, the syphillis and HIV infection in 20% of cases is that transmitted through oral or anal sex?

Many thanks.

[Edward W Hook, MD]

I suspect you are more worried than you need to be.  EWH

[Nclpom]

Thank you for your speedy response.  Sorry yes it was oral sex I received along with kissing.  I also have a redness to my lip but this is where I normally develop a cold sore.  I don't know if it just stress but I am beside myself.

Thanks

[Edward W Hook, MD]

Welcome to the Forum.  Syphilis is more common among men who have sex with men than among heterosexual men and women however it remains quite a rare infection.  Your risk from a single sexual encounter is rather low.  Can you tell me however, what was the nature of your exposure?  Was it oral sex?  If so, that would, statistically make your risk even lower as syphilis is very rarely transmitted through oral sex.

The lesion you describe on your cheek does not at all sound like syphilis however if it concerns you, you should ask a knowledgeable clinician to examine you.

Finally when people do get syphilis they also get HIV at about the same time in about 20% of cases. thus there is a strong association between risk for syphilis and risk for HIV.  In your case however, there is nothing you have told me to suggest that you have syphilis.

I hope my comments are helpful to you.  EWH