Infections transmitted via mucus membranes

Infections transmitted via mucous membranes represent a significant category of human infectious diseases. Mucous membranes, found in various body cavities and organ systems, serve as entry points for pathogens. Respiratory droplets, direct contact with bodily fluids, and contaminated surfaces facilitate transmission. Common examples include respiratory infections like the common cold, influenza, tuberculosis, and COVID-19; sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as gonorrhea, syphilis, chlamydia, herpes, and HIV; gastrointestinal infections like rotavirus, norovirus, and Salmonella; as well as conjunctivitis. Employing robust personal hygiene practices, practicing safe sex, adhering to food safety guidelines, and minimizing contact with infected individuals are key preventative strategies. Understanding their transmission modes is indispensable for mitigating the burden of these infectious diseases. 

A. Syphilis:

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. It is primarily transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral intercourse, as well as through vertical transmission from an infected mother to her unborn child during pregnancy or childbirth. The disease progresses through four stages: primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary. The primary stage, typically occurring approximately three weeks after exposure, manifests as a painless sore called a chancre at the site of infection. Chancres can appear on the genitals, anus, mouth, or other areas of the body. These lesions usually self-resolve after 3-6 weeks, often unnoticed or misinterpreted as benign skin abnormalities.

In the second stage, known as secondary syphilis, the infection disseminates throughout the body as the bacterium enters the bloodstream. This stage usually occurs several weeks after the primary stage. Symptoms include a maculopapular rash, commonly observed on the palms and soles, as well as systemic manifestations such as fever, sore throat, fatigue, and generalized lymphadenopathy. Secondary symptoms often come and go over a period of several months. Following the secondary stage, syphilis enters a latent stage in which no evident symptoms are present but the infection persists within the body. Latency can persist for years, during which time the individual remains contagious and can transmit the disease to others.

In the absence of treatment, syphilis can progress to the tertiary stage, typically occurring several years after the initial infection. Tertiary syphilis can lead to severe complications affecting multiple organ systems. Neurosyphilis, cardiovascular syphilis, gummatous syphilis characterized by the formation of granulomatous tumors, and late benign syphilis are all potential manifestations of the disease at this stage. The diagnosis of syphilis is accomplished through serological tests that detect specific antibodies against T. pallidum in blood or cerebrospinal fluid samples. Prompt treatment is essential to prevent disease progression and long-term complications. The primary treatment for syphilis is penicillin, administered at varying dosages depending on the stage and duration of the infection.

Prevention strategies for syphilis include practicing safe sexual behaviors, such as consistent condom usage, regular STI screenings, and avoiding sexual contact with infected individuals. Prenatal care is crucial for pregnant women to identify and treat syphilis to minimize the risk of transmission to their unborn children.

In conclusion, syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. It progresses through primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary stages, potentially leading to severe complications if left untreated. Early diagnosis through serological tests and prompt treatment with penicillin are vital to prevent disease progression and associated health consequences. Public awareness, practicing safe sex, and seeking medical care are important measures for controlling the spread of syphilis. 

B. Gonorrhea:

Gonorrhea, caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, is a prevalent sexually transmitted infection (STI) affecting the genital tract, rectum, throat, and eyes. Its global incidence remains alarmingly high, with millions of new cases reported annually. Transmission primarily occurs via sexual activities, encompassing vaginal, anal, and oral intercourse. Importantly, transmission can occur irrespective of the presence of visible symptoms, making early detection and prevention challenging. Additionally, vertical transmission from an infected mother to her newborn during childbirth is also a concern.

Clinical manifestations of gonorrhea may be asymptomatic, particularly in women. When symptoms do occur, they typically manifest within 2 to 10 days after exposure. Men may experience dysuria, purulent discharge from the penis (white, yellow, or green), and painful or swollen testicles. In women, common symptoms include dysuria, increased vaginal discharge, and intermenstrual bleeding. Rectal and pharyngeal infections may present with similar symptoms.

Untreated gonorrhea can lead to various complications. Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), a common sequelae in women, can result in chronic pelvic pain, infertility, and ectopic pregnancies. Pregnancy with a concurrent gonococcal infection carries the risk of premature birth and low birth weight. Furthermore, untreated gonorrhea facilitates both the transmission and acquisition of HIV. Diagnosis of gonorrhea often involves laboratory-based tests, such as nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) on urine samples or swabs from the infected sites. Antibiotics remain the mainstay of treatment; however, the emergence and spread of antibiotic-resistant strains pose significant challenges to the clinical management of this infection. Prevention strategies rely on practicing safe sexual behaviors, including consistent and correct condom use and limiting the number of sexual partners. Routine screening for STIs, particularly among individuals with multiple sexual partners or engaging in unprotected intercourse, is crucial for early detection and timely intervention.

Gonorrhea represents a serious public health concern worldwide due to the escalating prevalence of antibiotic-resistant strains. This phenomenon further complicates treatment modalities, fostering the risk of both short- and long-term complications. Strengthened surveillance systems, comprehensive public education programs, and improved accessibility to testing and treatment are pivotal in effectively controlling the spread of gonorrhea and mitigating its detrimental impact on public health. 

Written by D. M. C. V (Chloe Vo)