Gonococcemia in pregnancy

A case of gonococcemia in pregnancy in which the patient presented with the classic clinical manifestations of gonococcemia--cutaneous lesions, arthritis, and possibly pericarditis--is reported. A review of the literature reveals a dramatic increase in incidence of gonorrhea and the increasing importance of the complications associated with this disease, particularly in pregnancy. Recommendations regarding recognition of gonococcemia, criteria for diagnosis, and treatment are presented.