Isolated pharyngeal Neisseria gonorrhoeae in heterosexual male contacts
Rebecca Thomson-Glover1, Ruth Brown, Damitha N Edirisinghe
1Royal Liverpool and Broadgreen University Hospital Trust, Liverpool, UK.
International Journal of STD & AIDS
|August 24, 2013
Abstract:
Pharyngeal infection with Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) in heterosexual men is thought to be of low prevalence and the value of routinely testing this group of patients is uncertain. We present two cases of NG, isolated only in the pharynx, in asymptomatic heterosexual male contacts. The presence of pharyngeal NG was found irrespective of direct oropharyngeal sexual exposure.
Insights
Pharyngeal Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) infections are uncommon in heterosexual men. This study highlights two cases in asymptomatic men, suggesting pharyngeal NG can occur without direct oral contact.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Pharyngeal Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) infection is considered rare in heterosexual men.
- The clinical utility of routine pharyngeal testing in this demographic remains unclear.
Observation:
- Two cases of asymptomatic heterosexual men with isolated pharyngeal NG are presented.
- These infections were identified in individuals without a history of direct oropharyngeal sexual exposure.
Findings:
- Pharyngeal NG can be present in asymptomatic heterosexual men.
- The presence of pharyngeal NG may not be solely dependent on direct oropharyngeal sexual contact.
Implications:
- These findings challenge the assumption of low prevalence and uncertain testing value for pharyngeal NG in heterosexual men.
- Consideration of pharyngeal NG screening in specific heterosexual male populations may be warranted.
- Further research is needed to understand transmission dynamics and optimize diagnostic strategies for pharyngeal gonorrhea.
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