Can You Get Syphilis from Massaging a Late-Stage Patient?

Can massaging a relative with late-stage syphilis lead to transmission of the disease?

Hello Doctor, I would like to ask if a relative has had syphilis for over 50 years and has inflammatory soft tumors resembling tumors along with psoriasis, would massaging this relative in the late stages of syphilis pose a risk of transmitting syphilis? Would the tumor-like inflammatory soft tumors leak tissue fluid due to massage? If the person giving the massage has cuts on their hands, is there a risk of infection? I look forward to your response, thank you.

Xiao P, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/02/22

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Hello, if there are wounds on your hands, contact with secretions may lead to infection.
The diagnosis and treatment of syphilis is not my area of expertise.
If you have concerns, I recommend consulting an infectious disease specialist.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again, and we can discuss and research further.
Answers found online should only be considered as references; if necessary, it is important to seek medical care at a healthcare facility.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare Taitung Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2015/02/22

More Info

When it comes to the transmission of syphilis, it is important to understand how the infection spreads and the specific circumstances that can lead to transmission. Syphilis is primarily transmitted through direct contact with syphilitic sores, which can occur during sexual activity. The bacteria responsible for syphilis, Treponema pallidum, can enter the body through mucous membranes or through breaks in the skin.

In the case of massaging a late-stage syphilis patient, there are several factors to consider:
1. Presence of Sores: If the patient has visible sores or lesions on their skin, particularly in areas that may come into contact with the massage therapist's hands, there is a risk of transmission. Late-stage syphilis can present with gummas, which are soft, tumor-like growths that can occur in various tissues. If these lesions are open or weeping, they may contain infectious fluid.

2. Skin Integrity: If the massage therapist has any cuts, abrasions, or open wounds on their hands, this increases the risk of infection. The bacteria can enter through these breaks in the skin if they come into contact with infectious material from the patient.

3. Massage Technique: The nature of the massage itself can also play a role. If deep tissue techniques are used that may cause the skin to break or if there is significant friction over areas with lesions, this could potentially lead to exposure to infectious fluids.

4. Fluid Transmission: While syphilis is not typically transmitted through casual contact or through body fluids like sweat or saliva, the presence of infectious lesions can change this dynamic. If the lesions are exuding any fluid, there is a risk that this fluid could contain the bacteria.

5. Precautions: To minimize the risk of transmission, it is crucial for the massage therapist to take precautions. This includes wearing gloves, avoiding direct contact with any lesions, and ensuring that any cuts or abrasions on their hands are properly covered. Additionally, practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands thoroughly before and after the massage, is essential.

In summary, while the risk of contracting syphilis through massage is generally low, it is not zero, especially in the presence of open sores and if the massage therapist has compromised skin integrity. If there are concerns about potential exposure, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for further guidance and possibly testing. It is also important for the patient to receive appropriate medical treatment for their syphilis to prevent further complications and transmission.

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