Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea

Caused by a bacteria which affects the reproductive tract, urethra, rectum and throat. Most commonly, GC infects the urethra in men and the cervix in women. It typically infects non-squamous epithelium lined mucous membranes, so it also can infect Skeen's and Bartholin's glands, anus, epididymis, pharynx, and conjunction of the eyes (in newborns) during delivery.

Uncommonly diagnosed on campus but still a significant problem in the population attending "STD" clinics. 75% of cases in women occur between 15-24 years of age. Many cases, especially in women, go undetected because the infected person is asymptomatic.

GC is transmitted by sexual activity that results in contact with infected discharge. It also can be transmitted to a fetus during pregnancy and a baby during delivery.

STAGES
WOMEN
MEN

Symptoms
  • pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) which may lead to scarring in the reproductive tract and infertility if treatment is ineffective or too late.
  • An earlier sign may be a vaginal discharge, pain with urination, abdominal pain and pain during sex.
  • creamy, pus like discharge from penis stringing with urination, pain or swelling of the testicles.
There may not be signs or symptoms in either sex.
If Not Treated
  • If infection becomes generalized, in either sex, it may result in arthritis, skin problems, heart and nervous system disease.
Diagnosis
  • swab on the endo-cervix
  • urethral swab
Treatment
  • includes a variety of oral and intramuscular injections. Abstinence from sexual activity until treatment finished. Condoms provide some protection.

Follow-up
  • includes repeating cultures 4-7 days after treatment to ensure infection resolved. This is particularly true for anal infections as resistant strains are more likely to be encountered there.
  • Reporting is required to the Ministry of Health.
Other
  • Inform present and previous partners within the last year of any infections.
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