[Syphilis in the past and present]

Abstract

Syphilis is a specific inflammation which is extremely difficult to clearly diagnose in archaeological material. The origin of this disease is unclear. Most proponents hold the view that it comes from America, and that it was transmitted to Europe by sailors travelling with Columbus. In addition to the thesis of the American origin of syphilis is a suggestion that a mild form of syphilis existed in Europe before Columbus' expeditions. This form, until the end of the fifteenth century, began to spread epidemics. In Poland, the first officially reported case of the disease was described in 1495. Today, an increase in the incidence of new cases in Poland and globally can be observed. An increasing number of cases of congenital syphilis in newborns is also noted. This situation in Poland is connected with a change in the law in 2001, according to which only insured persons became entitled to free treatment. In view of the rising tide of the disease, and the appearance of advanced forms of the disease, in 2009 the free diagnosis, treatment, and follow up for all patients with syphilis was restored.