Syphilis and gonorrhea are both sexually transmitted diseases but they differ in their causes, symptoms, and progression. Syphilis is caused by bacteria Treponema pallidum and if left untreated can spread throughout the body, while gonorrhea is caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacteria and often shows symptoms within 2-3 weeks. Syphilis progresses through distinct stages over a long period of time and can cause sores, rashes, and damage to internal organs if not treated. Gonorrhea typically only causes discharge and painful urination when symptoms are present. While both diseases are transmitted sexually, syphilis can also spread through skin-to-skin contact with sores.