Ampath Laboratories DxINSIGHTS - Issue 7 - May 2024

Introduction

THE APPROACH TO A GENITAL DISCHARGE

Genital discharges are both embarrassing and uncomfortable for the affected individual. However, if a genital discharge is due to a sexually transmitted infection (STI), the implications can stretch far beyond short-term discomfort, and include, among others, an increased susceptibility to, and increased transmission of HIV, pelvic inflammatory disease, tubal infertility, ectopic pregnancy and complications of pregnancy, such as premature delivery, stillbirths and congenital infections.

WHEN LOVE LEAVES A MARK: UNVEILING THE INTRICACIES OF SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED ULCERS

A SHORT NON-EXHAUSTIVE AETIOLOGY AND GENERAL APPROACH

Genital ulcers are a common and important health Problem in both developed and developing nations. The presence of genital ulcers increases the risk of Transmitting and acquiring HIV. In addition, early Effective therapy reduces the risk of transmitting sexually Transmitted pathogens to sex partners. It is therefore Important to determine the cause of a genital ulcer and to manage it appropriately.

A BIRD'S EYE VIEW OF HEPATITIS B VIRUS

Hepatitis B virus (HBV), despite being a vaccine preventable infection, remains a significant global health burden. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 15 million people acquired chronic HBV infections globally in 2019, 66% of which occurred in Africa. It is estimated that HBV infections claimed the lives of 820 000 people globally in the same year. Of major concern is that just under 90% of persons who have chronic HBV infections are unaware of their HBV status and only 22.7% received treatment in 2019. This data clearly illustrates the need to scale up diagnostic testing for HBV infection and linkage to care.

DETECTION OF SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS AMONG SPECIAL POPULATIONS

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a major public health concern in South Africa. Sexually transmitted infections are frequently asymptomatic and can lead to significant morbidity if left untreated. Detailed guidance for the management of STIs can be found in the publications of the 2021 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organisation (WHO), as well as the 2022 South African (SA) HIV Clinician Society Guidelines. This article delves into guideline-specific recommendations for STI detection among special populations, considering anatomical, behavioural and identity factors, to ensure a comprehensive approach to sexual health.