Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 31, 2026
Author Spotlight: Advancing Syphilis Research — Innovations in Treponema pallidum Cultivation and Genetic Engineering
Published on: January 24, 2025
Syphilis
Stephen H Tsang1,2, Tarun Sharma3
1Jonas Children's Vision Care, Bernard & Shirlee Brown Glaucoma Laboratory, Columbia Stem Cell Initiative-Departments of Ophthalmology, Biomedical Engineering, Pathology & Cell Biology, Institute of Human Nutrition, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.
Abstract:
Syphilis is an infectious disease caused by a spirochete, Treponema pallidum; it is most commonly spread by sexual transmission. Syphilis is known as the "Great Imitator," as systemic manifestations are variable. It can involve any part of the eye, with syphilitic uveitis being the most common type. Congenital syphilis is characterized by Hutchinson's teeth, saddle nose deformity, deafness, and interstitial keratitis; pigmentary changes in the retina are varied and patchy.
