 Secondary syphilis occurs approximately four to ten weeks after the primary infection . While secondary disease is known for the many different ways it can manifest , symptoms most commonly involve the skin , mucous membranes , and lymph nodes . There may be a symmetrical , reddish @-@ pink , non @-@ itchy rash on the trunk and extremities , including the palms and soles . The rash may become maculopapular or pustular . It may form flat , broad , whitish , wart @-@ like lesions known as condyloma latum on mucous membranes . All of these lesions harbor bacteria and are infectious . Other symptoms may include fever , sore throat , malaise , weight loss , hair loss , and headache . Rare manifestations include liver inflammation , kidney disease , joint inflammation , periostitis , inflammation of the optic nerve , uveitis , and interstitial keratitis . The acute symptoms usually resolve after three to six weeks ; about 25 % of people may present with a recurrence of secondary symptoms . Many people who present with secondary syphilis ( 40 – 85 % of women , 20 – 65 % of men ) do not report previously having had the classic chancre of primary syphilis . 
