What symptom is often seen in the early stages of syphilis?

The symptom that is often seen in the early stages of syphilis is a reddish sore, specifically known as a chancre. This sore typically appears at the site where the bacteria, Treponema pallidum, enters the body, and it is a hallmark sign of the primary stage of the infection. The chancre is usually painless and can go unnoticed, which contributes to the difficulty in diagnosing syphilis at this early stage. Recognizing this symptom is crucial for timely treatment and management of the disease.

In contrast, while fever can occur and may be present later in the disease, it is not a primary symptom of early syphilis. Diarrhea and pelvic pain are not commonly associated with the onset of syphilis and are instead more indicative of other conditions. Thus, the appearance of a reddish sore or chancre is a key indicator for the presence of syphilis in its early phase.