What is the name of the sore that develops at the initial point of syphilis infection?

The sore that develops at the initial point of syphilis infection is called a chancre. This is a firm, round, and painless lesion that appears at the site where the syphilis bacteria, Treponema pallidum, enter the body, often on the genital area, anus, or mouth. The chancre is typically the first sign of syphilis during the primary stage of the infection and usually heals on its own within a few weeks, but it's important to seek treatment because the infection can progress to more serious stages if left untreated.

The chancre's distinct characteristics, such as being painless and hard, distinguish it from other types of sores like ulcers, abscesses, or fissures, which may have different symptoms and underlying causes. For instance, ulcers are often painful and can be associated with various infections or conditions. Abscesses typically involve a collection of pus and are often tender and swollen, whereas fissures are small tears in the skin that can occur in different contexts but do not have the specific association with syphilis. Understanding these differences is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment.