Hello. Yesterday I had a paid massage with another male. There was no oral or anal intercourse whatsoever. Just mutual hand masturbation. However our penises came into contact very briefly. About 15 seconds.  I did not see any sores on him but it was a bit dark. Am I at risk for syphilis?  I am a little worried. Thank you. 

Welcome to the Forum and thanks for your question. The encounter you describe was very low risk for syphilis.  There was no evidence of syphilitic lesions on the masseuse's penis and friction is an important factor in transmission, even when lesions are present.  I would not be the least bit concerned about acquisition of syphilis or any other STI from the events you describe.  I see no reason for testing here. ---

Thank you so much Dr. Hook.  A real relief!  So, generally speaking, oral, vaginal or anal penile penetration would normally need to take place for syphilis transmission to take place?  Very brief partner genital contact transmission would be extremely rare?  

Yes, this is correct.  I would not worry.  EWH---

Last question since I am allowed one additional - have you in your vast experience ever discovered or heard of syphilis transmission from an episode of very brief penis-to-penis shaft contact (i.e. frottage)?  Thanks again in advance and have a wonderful summer.

Thanks for your thanks. As I said before, I see no meaningful risk for acquisition of syphilis from the activities you described. I have never seen syphilis acquired in this way. ---