This document summarizes information about syphilis, a sexually transmitted disease. It is caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. Syphilis occurs worldwide and an estimated 12 million new cases arise each year, primarily in developing countries. Humans are the only reservoir for the bacterium, which is transmitted through direct contact with syphilitic sores during sexual activity or from mother to fetus. Without treatment, syphilis progresses through primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary stages.