Sexually transmitted diseases

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) constitute a diverse group of infectio us diseases with a wide array of associated pathogens and varied clinical m anifestations. STDs are among the most common urogenital conditions encount ered in the emergency department. The emergency physician must have a high index of suspicion for STDs and a low threshold for initiating empiric ther apy based on the patient's signs and symptoms. This article will review the most commonly encountered STDs with an emphasis on clinical presentation, diagnosis, and pharmacotherapy.