Question

Which of the following is indicative of the third stage of a syphilis infection? a. chancre b. rash c. gumma d. generalized edema

Short answer

The symptom indicative of the third stage of a syphilis infection is (c) gumma.

Step-by-step solution

Review the stages of syphilis infection

Before we can select the correct answer, it's essential to understand the three stages of syphilis infection and their characteristics: 1. Primary stage: Typically marked by the appearance of a chancre (a painless sore) at the infection site. 2. Secondary stage: Characterized by a rash, usually on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet. Other possible symptoms include fever, swollen lymph nodes, or fatigue. 3. Tertiary stage: This stage can involve serious complications affecting the heart, brain, and other organs. One of the possible indicators of tertiary syphilis is the formation of gummas (soft, tumor-like growths) on the skin, bones, or internal organs.

Identify the symptom associated with the third stage of syphilis

Now that we have reviewed the main indicators of each stage of syphilis infection, we can match the provided options with the corresponding stage. Based on our knowledge of the symptoms, we can conclude the following: a. chancre - primary stage b. rash - secondary stage c. gumma - tertiary stage d. generalized edema - not a specific symptom of syphilis

Select the correct answer

Since we're looking for the symptom indicative of the third (tertiary) stage of syphilis infection and we've identified that the gumma, option (c), is associated with this stage, our final answer is: (c) gumma