Management of genital infections

The scope of this article includes disorders ranging from simple vaginitis to a perspective on acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. Gynecologic infections are an extremely common cause of visits to the Emergency Department, especially those in large inner cities. Pelvic inflammatory disease is the most serious of the infectious presentations. Vulvovaginitis, although not as serious, can be quite debilitating and is extremely common. Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV), although not necessarily a gynecologic infection, is included herein because of its sexually transmitted disease potential, and a perspective on protection for the Emergency Department worker is given.