The typical symptom of syphilis stage I is hard chancre. 2-3 weeks after infection with the syphilis spirochete, erythema can appear on the external genitalia, and the erythema can appear as necrosis and ulceration. The ulceration can usually reach 1-2 cm in diameter, round or oval, and is painless. The hard chancre is most contagious and can last for 3-4 weeks, but can be shortened to 1-2 weeks with active and effective treatment. The hard chancre can resolve on its own, leaving a reddish-brown scar or a darker color here. The typical symptom of the second stage is a syphilis rash, which is typically a rash that is distributed over the body and can be macular, papular or flaky.