Gonococcal disease, more commonly known as gonorrhea, is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
Essentially, gonorrhea is a bacterial infection primarily affecting the mucous membranes of the reproductive tract, including the cervix, uterus, and fallopian tubes in women, and the urethra in both men and women. It can also affect the rectum, throat, and eyes.
Here's a breakdown of key aspects of gonococcal disease:
- Cause: Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacteria.
- Transmission: Primarily through sexual contact (vaginal, anal, or oral sex) with an infected person. A mother can also transmit the infection to her baby during childbirth.
- Symptoms:
- In Women: Increased vaginal discharge, painful urination, vaginal bleeding between periods, abdominal pain, and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Many women experience no symptoms.
- In Men: Painful urination, pus-like discharge from the penis, pain or swelling in one testicle.
- Other Sites (Rectum, Throat, Eyes): Rectal pain, discharge, or itching; sore throat; eye pain, sensitivity to light, and discharge.
- Diagnosis: Laboratory tests such as urine tests, swabs from the affected area (e.g., urethra, cervix, rectum, throat), or cultures.
- Treatment: Antibiotics. It's crucial that all sexual partners are also treated to prevent reinfection and further spread. Due to increasing antibiotic resistance, current treatment guidelines often involve dual therapy with two different antibiotics.
- Complications: Untreated gonorrhea can lead to serious health problems, including:
- In Women: Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), which can cause infertility, ectopic pregnancy, and chronic pelvic pain.
- In Men: Epididymitis (inflammation of the epididymis), which can lead to infertility.
- In Both Sexes: Disseminated gonococcal infection (DGI), a rare but serious condition that can affect the joints, skin, and heart. Increased risk of HIV acquisition and transmission.
- Prevention:
- Abstinence
- Using condoms consistently and correctly during sexual activity.
- Getting tested regularly for STIs, especially if you have new or multiple sexual partners.
- Talking openly with your partner(s) about sexual health and STI testing.
Therefore, gonococcal disease is a bacterial infection spread through sexual contact that, if left untreated, can lead to significant health complications. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent these complications and stop the spread of the infection.
