Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) OSCE Review

Flashcards covering the definitions, causative agents, symptoms, and pharmacological treatments of common Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) based on the OSCE clinical pharmacy lecture.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)

Infections primarily transmitted from person to person through sexual contact, which can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites.

Chlamydia

An infection caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, often asymptomatic but can cause abnormal discharge, pain during urination, and infertility if untreated.

Azithromycin (for Chlamydia)

A treatment for Chlamydia administered as a single $1\,g$ oral dose.

Doxycycline (for Chlamydia)

An alternative treatment for Chlamydia administered as $100\,mg$ twice daily for 7 days.

Gonorrhea

An infection caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae, characterized by thick yellow/green discharge, pain during urination, and potential complications like infertility or arthritis.

Ceftriaxone

A treatment for Gonorrhea administered as a $250\,mg$ IM single dose, though often given with Azithromycin $1\,g$ due to increasing resistance.

Syphilis

An infection caused by Treponema pallidum; it progresses from a painless primary chancre to a secondary stage with rash and fever, potentially causing heart and brain complications if untreated.

Penicillin G Benzathine

The recommended IM single dose treatment for the early stages of Syphilis.

Genital Herpes

A chronic viral infection caused by Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) that produces painful sores, blisters, and itching; it cannot be cured but symptoms can be managed.

Acyclovir, Valacyclovir, and Famciclovir

Antiviral medications used to reduce the severity and duration of Genital Herpes outbreaks or as daily preventive therapy.

Genital Warts

Small, fleshy, cauliflower-shaped bumps in the genital area caused by Human Papillomavirus (HPV).

Podofilox and Imiquimod

Topical treatments used to remove Genital Warts.

Trichomoniasis

An infection caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis, resulting in frothy green/yellow vaginal discharge, itching, and foul odor.

Metronidazole (for Trichomoniasis)

A treatment for Trichomoniasis given as a single $2\,g$ oral dose; patients must avoid alcohol during its use.

Asymptomatic

A condition where an infected individual shows no clear symptoms, which is common in many STDs and increases the risk of transmission.

Chancre

A painless sore that appears during the primary stage of a Syphilis infection.

Partner Notification and Treatment

The process of informing and treating sexual partners of an infected individual to prevent re-infection and further spread.

Abstinence

The practice of refraining from sexual activity during the treatment period (typically 7 days after treatment) or while active sores are present.

Monitoring Parameters for Safety

Observation for drug-related side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, skin reactions, or alcohol interactions (specifically with Metronidazole).

HPV Vaccine

A preventive vaccine used to protect against certain types of Human Papillomavirus that cause Genital Warts and cancers, such as cervical cancer.