What is the painless sore called that is the first sign of syphilis?

The first sign of syphilis is referred to as a chancre. This is a painless sore that typically appears at the site where the bacteria enter the body, often during the primary stage of syphilis. Chancres are usually round and firm, and while they are not painful, they are significant as they indicate the presence of syphilis infection. Recognizing and treating a chancre early is crucial for preventing the progression of the disease to its later stages, which can lead to more severe health issues.

Lesion and ulcer are more general terms that can refer to any abnormal tissue change or sore, but they do not specifically identify the characteristic sore associated with syphilis. Warts refer to growths caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) and are unrelated to syphilis. Understanding the specific characteristics of a chancre helps in the diagnosis and management of syphilis.