Which findings are associated with tertiary syphilis?

Tertiary syphilis is characterized by a variety of serious complications that occur after an untreated infection with Treponema pallidum, typically manifesting years after the initial stages (primary and secondary). Among the complications, gummas and aortitis are primary findings associated with this late stage of syphilis.

Gummas are soft, tumor-like growths that can develop in various tissues, including the skin, bones, and liver, and are a classic manifestation of tertiary syphilis. These granulomatous lesions arise due to the body's immune response to the persistent bacteria after the infection has been present for a long time.

Aortitis, on the other hand, involves inflammation of the aorta, which can lead to significant complications like aneurysm formation or aortic regurgitation, affecting the cardiovascular system. This is particularly relevant given that tertiary syphilis can lead to vascular complications due to the chronic inflammation and damage to blood vessels over time.

In contrast, the other choices mentioned involve findings related to different conditions or stages of syphilis. For example, Bell's palsy is more associated with early syphilis, while cold agglutinins are linked to a different pathophysiological mechanism not specific to