The "pre-Columbian theory" holds that syphilis was present in Europe before the discovery of the Americas by Europeans.

History of Disease

In 1911 California became the first state to require physicians to report cases of venereal disease and that, to assure confidentiality.

Syphilis was effectively diagnosed first using a test in 1906. This was called the Wassermann test.

Earlier syphilis was untreatable and usually progressed to its later stages.

History of Treatment

The Spanish priest Francisco Delicado in 1525 wrote about the use of ''Guaiacum'' in the treatment of syphilis.

common remedy was mercury

The first antibiotic to be used for treating disease was the arsenic-containing drug Salvarsan

These treatments were finally rendered obsolete by the discovery of penicillin, and its widespread manufacture after World War II.

Source: http://www.news-medical.net/health/Syphilis-History.aspx