General sexually transmitted diseases

This review discusses current trends in sexually transmitted diseases. Topics include treatment and prevention of syphilis and gonorrhea, as well as the association of sexually transmitted diseases with sexual assault. Also discussed are the various organisms that cause vulvitis, including Trichomonas, Candida, and Gardnerella species, along with a discussion of vulvar lesions that are especially difficult to diagnose and treat. Diagnosis, sampling, pathogenesis, and treatment of Chlamydia trachomatis are also covered. A discussion of the various degrees of protection offered by different forms of contraception encourages use of barrier methods and oral contraceptives for teenagers as well as postponement of sexual activity. Detection, treatment, and vaccination against genital herpes are covered, along with diagnosing anogenital warts in children as either skin or genital wart virus types, and the relationship between human papillomavirus and cancer.