Sexually Transmitted Infections and Disorders

These flashcards include key terms and their definitions related to sexually transmitted infections and associated medical conditions.

Chlamydial infections

A common bacterial STI caused by Chlamydia trachomatis; often asymptomatic and the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the US.

Genital herpes

A lifelong viral infection caused by HSV-1 or HSV-2 characterized by periodic outbreaks of genital lesions.

Genital warts

Caused by HPV, these are growths that can appear as single or multiple papillary growths, sometimes forming cauliflower-like masses.

Gonorrhea

The second most common reportable STI in the US, caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae.

Syphilis

A bacterial infection caused by Treponema pallidum that progresses through distinct clinical stages and can cause long-term complications if untreated.

Trichomoniasis

An STI caused by the protozoan parasite Trichomonas vaginalis, often asymptomatic and more common in women.

Human papillomavirus (HPV)

A virus with over 150 types; 'low-risk' types cause genital warts, while 'high-risk' types can lead to various cancers.

Herpes simplex virus

The virus responsible for genital herpes, traditionally associated with either oral or anogenital disease.

Gummas

Destructive tumor-like lesions occurring during the late stage of syphilis affecting various organs.

General paresis

A manifestation of late neurosyphilis characterized by personality changes, tremors, and significant deterioration.

Tabes dorsalis

A rare extreme manifestation of neurosyphilis leading to loss of coordination and severe pain.

Doxycycline

Preferred treatment for chlamydial infections, taken in a 7-day course.

Ceftriaxone

The first-line treatment for uncomplicated gonorrhea, administered as a single high-dose IM injection.

Metronidazole

The preferred medication for trichomoniasis.

Acyclovir

An antiviral agent used to inhibit viral replication for managing genital herpes.

Penicillin G Benzathine

Recommended treatment for all stages of syphilis.

Cervical cancer

A type of cancer that can develop from high-risk HPV infections.

Ectopic pregnancy

A complication that can arise from untreated chlamydial infections leading to risks of infertility.

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

An increased risk associated with untreated chlamydial infections.

Expedited partner therapy (EPT)

A method where a healthcare provider gives medication to a patient’s partner without an examination.

Partner Treatment

An essential step to prevent reinfection in sexually transmitted infections.

Asymptomatic

The condition of having no noticeable symptoms, often seen in STIs like chlamydia and trichomoniasis.

Mucopurulent discharge

A symptom in women infected with chlamydia characterized by vaginal discharge.

Dysuria

Painful urination, a common symptom in infections like gonorrhea.

Crustation and healing

The final stage of herpes symptoms where lesions heal.

Strabismus

A condition where a person cannot focus both eyes on the same object, related to various systemic health issues.

Retinal detachment

A medical emergency where the retina separates from the underlying tissues, needing immediate treatment.

Ototoxicity

Damage to the ear associated with certain medications or conditions leading to hearing loss.