Monkeypox presenting as an isolated genital rash: a case report.

Area of Science:

• Epidemiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Dermatology

Background:

• Monkeypox (MPX) gained global attention in 2022 due to a widespread outbreak.
• MPX is a viral illness typically presenting with a facial rash that disseminates.
• Genital lesions have been increasingly reported, particularly among men who have sex with men (MSM).

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a unique case of monkeypox presenting as an isolated genital rash in a heterosexual male.
• To emphasize the importance of considering sexual transmission of monkeypox beyond the MSM population.
• To highlight the diagnostic challenges and public health implications of atypical monkeypox presentations.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a 20-year-old male in Saudi Arabia with an isolated genital rash.
• Clinical presentation including fever, pubic vesicular rash, and subsequent dissemination.
• Laboratory confirmation of monkeypox virus infection.

Main Results:

• The patient developed fever and a localized vesicular rash in the pubic area, consistent with monkeypox.
• The rash subsequently spread to other body parts, evolving into erythematous plaques.
• Laboratory tests confirmed the presence of the monkeypox virus.

Conclusions:

• Physicians should include monkeypox in the differential diagnosis for sexually transmitted diseases presenting with genital lesions.
• This case underscores the potential for sexual transmission of monkeypox in heterosexual contacts.
• Health education on safe sexual practices is crucial to mitigate viral spread.