Luetelmia

Luetelmia is a Finnish term used in public health and clinical contexts to refer to the manifestations of luet (syphilis). It does not denote a separate disease; rather, luetelmia describes the spectrum of signs and symptoms that can accompany syphilis across its stages.

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. Transmission occurs mainly through sexual contact, but it can also be transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy (congenital syphilis) or via blood transfusion in rare cases. After infection, the disease progresses through several stages: primary syphilis typically presents with a painless ulcer (chancre) at the site of infection; secondary syphilis often features a diffuse rash, including the palms and soles, mucous patches, and condylomata lata. The latent stage has no symptoms but may still affect the body. Tertiary syphilis can involve the skin, cardiovascular system, or nervous system (neurosyphilis) and may occur years after the initial infection.

Diagnosis relies on serologic testing. Non-treponemal tests (such as RPR or VDRL) measure disease activity, while treponemal tests (such as TPPA or FTA-ABS) confirm exposure. Direct visualization methods like dark-field microscopy can be used in early lesions. Treatment is primarily with penicillin G; alternatives exist for penicillin-allergic individuals, though efficacy varies. Partners should be informed and treated as needed, and follow-up serology is used to monitor response.

Prevention emphasizes safe sexual practices, regular screening in at-risk populations, prenatal testing to prevent congenital syphilis, and partner notification. In Finnish medical usage, luetelmia thus denotes the full range of syphilis-related clinical manifestations rather than a separate disease category.