Apr 2026 DOI 10.14302/issn.2994-6743.ijstd-25-5899
W. Ruddock MarkCorresponding author
Background Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) continue to rise globally, with >1 million new cases reported daily in 2020. In England, newly diagnosed STIs increased by 23.8% in 2022 compared to 2021. Many infections remain asymptomatic yet contribute to infertility, pregnancy complications, and neonatal morbidity. While routine screening often focuses on Chlamydia trachomatis, broader detection is limited by laboratory turnaround times and restricted test panels. Methods We analysed 6003 home-collected urine and/or swab samples submitted for sexual health screening in the UK. Samples were tested in the laboratory for 10 bacterial and viral pathogens. A total of 5859 urine and 1627 swab samples were processed, with paired samples assessed for diagnostic agreement. Results The most common infections detected in urine were Ureaplasma urealyticum (12.1%), Mycoplasma hominis (8.6%), and Chlamydia trachomatis (2.4%). Swabs showed similar prevalence, with Ureaplasma urealyticum (11.6%) most frequent, followed by Mycoplasma hominis (10.4%) and HSV-2 (4.4%). Paired urine–swab samples demonstrated strong agreement, though swabs improved HSV detection. Conclusions Ureaplasma urealyticum was the most prevalent STI detected, yet only Chlamydia trachomatis is routinely screened in England. Comprehensive laboratory testing of home-collected samples could reduce the hidden burden of STIs, infertility, pregnancy complications, and neonatal infections, while offering confidential and accessible diagnostics.
Apr 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2994-6743.ijstd-24-5006
Khatoon Hossein Mehdi Poor NargisCorresponding author
Objectives This study explores the clinical characteristics, associated infections, and management outcomes of syphilis within a specific population over the years 2018 to 2022. With a focus on the frequency, clinical manifestations, and co-infections of syphilis, the research addresses a critical gap in understanding the nuanced dynamics of this sexually transmitted infection and its impact on public health. Methods The study employs a retrospective analysis of data collected from 2018 to 2022, utilizing three key serological tests (Syphilis AB, RPR/VDRL, and TPHA) to characterize syphilis infections within the population. Clinical manifestations and associated infections, including HIV, HBV, HCV, Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and HPV, are systematically assessed. Treatment rates and re-infection patterns are also analyzed, providing a comprehensive overview of syphilis epidemiology within the studied timeframe. Results The frequency of syphilis, particularly indicated by the Syphilis AB test, exhibited a marked increase in 2020, reaching 96%, suggesting a heightened frequency within the population. RPR/VDRL test results demonstrated consistent frequency, emphasizing the persistent presence of active syphilis infections. Clinical manifestations, such as chancre, skin rashes, alopecia syphilitica, and lymphadenopathy, displayed dynamic patterns over the study years. Co-infection rates varied, with fluctuations observed in HIV, Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and HPV, while HBV and HCV showed infrequent but stable frequency. The management of syphilis cases demonstrated commendable treatment rates, but an increase in re-infection rates in 2021 highlights the need for continued vigilance. Conclusion This study provides a comprehensive evaluation of syphilis epidemiology, clinical characteristics, and associated infections within the studied population. The results offer valuable insights into the dynamic nature of syphilis and its co-infections, informing public health initiatives and interventions. The findings contribute to our understanding of the epidemiological landscape and underscore the importance of sustained efforts in both prevention and treatment to curb the transmission of syphilis and its associated infections. The study, however, calls for continued vigilance and research to address the evolving trends and challenges in syphilis management within the specified population.
Dec 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2381-862X.jwrh-15-846
Rafie SallyCorresponding author
UC San Diego Health
Sexual assault is a serious problem in the United States. It is crucial that the medical management of these patients is adequate. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides guidelines for appropriate management of these patients. The purpose of this study is to evaluate medical management of survivors of sexual assault at an academic medical center and identify opportunities for improvements in care. We conducted a retrospective, chart review study of patients aged 12 years and older presenting at an academic medical center following sexual assault or rape between 2009 and 2013. Descriptive statistical tests were used to analyze the data. A total of 29 females and 5 males were identified. The majority of patients presented to the medical center within 24 hours of sexual assault or rape and typically presented to the emergency department. Empiric treatment for infections were 8.8% for Hepatitis B, 29.4% for human immunodeficiency virus, 20.6% for gonorrhea, 17.6% for chlamydia, and 8.8% for trichomonas. Among women of reproductive age, 28.0% were provided with emergency contraception. This study found inconsistency in the medical management of sexual assault survivors. Among this small sample size, many patients were not provided with recommended medical treatments. With this knowledge, the medical center plans to implement institutional guidelines and a corresponding order set in the computerized prescriber order entry system to standardize the medical management of sexual assault survivors and educate healthcare professionals. Future studies are warranted to evaluate the impact of standardized guidelines and order set implementation.