Introduction Description: Infection by the anaerobic flagellate protozoan Trichomonas vaginalis is most often acquired by sexual contact with an infected person. Prevalence: Approximately 3.7 million cases per year in the United States (2.1% of women); accounts for 25% of “vaginal…
Introduction Description: Since antiquity, syphilis has been the prototypic venereal disease. This disease presents with an easily overlooked first stage and, if left untreated, can slowly progress to a disabling disease noted for central nervous system, cardiac, and musculoskeletal involvement.…
Introduction Description: Phthirus pubis (pubic or crab lice) and Sarcoptes scabiei (scabies or itch mite) are parasitic insects that may be transferred through sexual activity or contact with contaminated clothing or bedding. Prevalence: Three million cases per year in the…
Introduction Description: Molluscum contagiosum is a papillary lesion caused by viral infection (poxvirus) that is spread by skin-to-skin contact, first described in 1817. Prevalence: 2/100,000; 1 of 40–60 patients with gonorrhea; approximately 1% of all skin disorders in the United…
Introduction Description: Lymphogranuloma venereum (LVG) is a potentially destructive infection caused by a number of serotypes (L-1, L-2, L-3) of Chlamydia trachomatis. Although uncommon in the United States, this infection causes significant morbidity. Prevalence: Uncommon; <100 cases per year in…
Introduction Description: Infection by one or more subtypes (of the more than 100 known) of human papillomaviruses (HPVs) causes epithelial proliferations at cutaneous and mucosal surfaces. Some serotypes are associated with warty growths on the hands, feet, and other locations…
Introduction Description: Infection by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) preferentially involves the immune system and leads to progressive deterioration in immune function. Infection produces a spectrum of disease that progresses from a clinically latent, asymptomatic state to acquired immune deficiency…
Introduction Description: Infection by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) results in recurrent symptoms that range from uncomfortable to disabling. There is a particular risk to neonates when herpes infection occurs during pregnancy. Prevalence: Most common cause of genital ulcers. 45–50…
Introduction Description: Granuloma inguinale (also called Donovanosis) is relatively common in the tropics, India, Papua New Guinea, South Africa, and Caribbean areas but accounts for fewer than 100 cases per year in the United States. This infection is caused by…
Introduction Description: Infection with Neisseria gonorrhoeae, a gram-negative intracellular diplococcus, remains common. Prevalence: In 2019 a total of 616,392 cases of gonorrhea were reported in the United States, and the national gonorrhea rate increased to 152.6 cases per 100,000 women.…