Sexually transmitted infections microbiology notes

What is an STI?

STI stands for sexually transmitted infection, which is an infection transmitted through sexual contact.

True or False: All STIs show immediate symptoms.

False. Many STIs can be asymptomatic, showing no symptoms for long periods.

Define 'asymptomatic'.

Asymptomatic refers to individuals who carry an infection but do not exhibit symptoms.

Name two common STIs.

Chlamydia and gonorrhea are two common sexually transmitted infections.

Transmission methods of STIs include:

- Sexual intercourse - Oral sex - Shared needles

Cause → Effect: What happens if an STI is untreated?

Untreated STIs can lead to serious health issues such as infertility, chronic pain, and increased risk of HIV.

What is the role of the immune system in STIs?

The immune system protects against infections, but STIs can evade immune responses, leading to infection persistence.

Compare viral and bacterial STIs.

Bacterial STIs (e.g., gonorrhea) can often be cured with antibiotics, while viral STIs (e.g., HIV) are typically managed but not cured.

What is the function of condoms in STI prevention?

Condoms act as a barrier to reduce the risk of STI transmission during sexual activity.

Fill in the blank: STIs can be ______ or viral.

bacterial

What is an example of a viral STI?

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a well-known viral STI that affects the immune system.

Define 'incubation period'.

The incubation period is the time between infection and the appearance of symptoms, varying by STI.

True or False: STIs can be transmitted through non-sexual contact.

True. Some STIs, like herpes, can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, not just sexual activity.

What is the purpose of STI screening?

STI screening aims to identify infections early, allowing for timely treatment and reducing transmission risks.

List two risk factors for STIs.

- Multiple sexual partners - Lack of condom use

What are common barriers to STI treatment?

Barriers include stigma, lack of access to healthcare, and lack of awareness about STIs.

Chlamydia trachomatis → main characteristics?

Chlamydia trachomatis is a gram-negative bacterium. It is an obligate intracellular pathogen, meaning it can only replicate within host cells. Key infections include urethritis and cervicitis.

True or False: Gonorrhea is caused by a virus.

False. Gonorrhea is caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae, a gram-negative bacterium.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) can lead to?

HPV can lead to genital warts and is associated with cervical cancer and other anogenital cancers.

Syphilis pathogen?

The causative agent of syphilis is Treponema pallidum, a spirochete bacterium. It has a helical shape and is motile.

What are the main symptoms of Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)?

Symptoms include painful blisters or sores at the site of infection, itching, and flu-like symptoms during outbreaks.

HIV → mode of action?

HIV attacks the immune system by targeting CD4+ T cells, leading to immunodeficiency and increased susceptibility to infections.

Trichomonas vaginalis is a?

Trichomonas vaginalis is a flagellated protozoan parasite responsible for trichomoniasis, characterized by vaginal discharge and itching.

What is the incubation period for Syphilis?

The incubation period for syphilis averages 3 weeks but can range from 10 to 90 days.

Comparison: HPV vs. Herpes Simplex Virus.

HPV is often asymptomatic and can cause warts or cancer. HSV causes painful outbreaks and remains dormant in the body.

Lyme disease and STIs: Connection?

There is no direct connection; Lyme disease is tick-borne, while STIs are primarily sexually transmitted.

Fill in the blank: Chancroid is caused by _____.

Chancroid is caused by Haemophilus ducreyi.

Neisseria gonorrhoeae → main transmission method?

Mainly transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex, leading to infections in the urogenital tract.

How is Chlamydia transmitted?

Chlamydia is primarily transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. It can also be passed from mother to child during childbirth.

True or False: STIs can be transmitted through casual contact.

False. STIs are mainly transmitted through sexual activity, not casual contact like hugging or sharing utensils.

Major symptoms of Gonorrhea?

Symptoms include: - Painful urination - Abnormal discharge - Pelvic pain - Swollen testicles

Transmission routes for HIV?

HIV can be transmitted through: - Unprotected sexual intercourse - Sharing needles - Blood transfusions - Mother to child during birth or breastfeeding

Common symptom of Syphilis in primary stage?

The primary stage often presents a painless sore called a chancre at the site of infection.

Fill in the blank: Herpes is mainly transmitted through __________.

Herpes is mainly transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, especially during an outbreak.

Comparison: Chlamydia vs. Gonorrhea symptoms.

Both may cause: - Painful urination - Discharge - Often asymptomatic Gonorrhea may show more severe symptoms.

How does Trichomoniasis transmit?

Trichomoniasis is transmitted through sexual intercourse with an infected partner, including vaginal and anal sex.

What is a common symptom of HPV?

Many people with HPV show no symptoms, but some may develop genital warts or cervical changes that can lead to cancer.

True or False: STIs can be asymptomatic.

True. Many STIs can be asymptomatic, meaning infected individuals may not show any symptoms.

What is a symptom of bacterial vaginosis?

Common symptoms include a fishy odor, vaginal discharge, and irritation, often worsening after sex.

How can STIs be prevented?

Preventative measures include: - Consistent condom use - Regular STI screenings - Limiting number of sexual partners - Vaccination (e.g., HPV)