An eye on sexually transmitted diseases: sexually transmitted diseases and their ocular manifestations

Abstract

Ocular examination should be a part of the routine assessment of the patients seen at sexually transmitted diseases (STD) clinics due to the importance of these organs in the general wellbeing of patients. It is essential to keep an open eye on ocular signs and symptoms of patients with a history of exposure to common STD pathogens, to ensure prompt investigation and management of ocular complications of the STDs, which, if left unnoticed, otherwise could subject the patients to a great deal of anxiety and distress.

Common Ocular Manifestations of Sexually Transmitted Diseases

“…Gonorrhoea is a common STD caused by a Gram-negative, intracellular diplococcal bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae [3].…”

“…Any acute infection (urethritis, cervicitis, conjunctivitis) caused by N. gonorrhea is detected by the presence of Gram-negative intracellular diplococci (GNID) on a smear derived from urethral, vaginal or conjunctival specimens [3]. Culture isolation of N. gonorrhea used to be the gold standard test for N. gonorrhea infection.…”

“…Cultures using selective medium, like chocolate agar, Martin-Lewis or modified Thayer-Martin are used for diagnostic confirmation [3].…”

“…However, longer treatment is required if cornea is involved. In penicillin-allergic patients, Ciprofloxacin 500 mg orally single dose or Ofloxacin 400 mg orally single dose can be used [3]. Contact tracing to treat the sexual partners is vital.…”

“…Contact tracing to treat the sexual partners is vital. Gonococcal Ophthalmia Neonatorum prophylaxis involves application of 0.5% Erythromycin ophthalmic ointment preparation into both eyes of every neonate as soon as possible after delivery [3].…”