21.5 STD Flashcards
AIDS
AIDS is the final stage of HIV infection, where the immune system is severely weakened, making the body vulnerable to infections and cancers. It occurs when HIV destroys CD4 cells. Symptoms include frequent infections and fatigue. HIV is treatable with antiretroviral therapy (ART), which can manage the virus and prevent progression to AIDS.
chlamydia
Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. It often shows no symptoms, but can cause painful urination, abnormal discharge, and pelvic pain in women. If left untreated, it can lead to infertility and other complications. Chlamydia is easily treated with antibiotics, and regular screening is recommended for sexually active individuals.
genital herpes
Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), usually HSV-2, though HSV-1 can also cause it. It leads to painful sores or blisters on the genital area. Many people may not show symptoms, but the virus remains in the body and can reactivate later. While there is no cure, antiviral medications can reduce outbreaks and the risk of transmission.
gonorrhea
Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It can infect the genital tract, rectum, and throat, often causing symptoms like painful urination, discharge, and swelling. However, many people may have no symptoms. If left untreated, gonorrhea can lead to infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), and other complications. It is treated with antibiotics but may require a combination of drugs due to rising antibiotic resistance.
hepatitis
Caused by the Hepatitis B virus (HBV), spread through blood, sexual contact, or from mother to child. It can lead to chronic infection and liver damage.
HIV
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the immune system, specifically targeting CD4 cells (a type of white blood cell). Over time, if untreated, it can lead to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), where the immune system becomes severely weakened, making the body vulnerable to infections and cancers. HIV is primarily transmitted through bodily fluids like blood, semen, and vaginal fluids. While there is no cure, antiretroviral therapy (ART) can control the virus, allowing individuals to live longer, healthier lives and reducing the risk of transmission.
HPV
HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is a group of more than 200 related viruses, some of which can cause genital warts and cervical cancer, while others may lead to throat or anal cancers. It is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI), with most infections being asymptomatic and clearing on their own. However, certain high-risk strains can persist and lead to serious health issues. Vaccines are available to protect against the most common and dangerous strains of HPV, and regular screenings, like Pap smears, can help detect early signs of cervical cancer.
jaundice
Jaundice is a condition characterized by the yellowing of the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes due to an excess of bilirubin in the bloodstream. Bilirubin is a byproduct of red blood cell breakdown, and when the liver is unable to process it properly, jaundice can occur. Causes of jaundice include liver diseases (like hepatitis or cirrhosis), gallstones, hemolytic anemia, and obstructions in bile ducts. Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the condition.
Pap test
A Pap test (or Pap smear) is a screening procedure used to detect cervical cancer and pre-cancerous changes in the cervix. During the test, cells are gently collected from the cervix and examined under a microscope. The Pap test can identify human papillomavirus (HPV)-related changes that may lead to cervical cancer, allowing for early intervention and treatment
PID
PID (Pelvic Inflammatory Disease) is an infection of the female reproductive organs, including the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. It is often caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like gonorrhea or chlamydia. Symptoms can include abdominal pain, fever, abnormal discharge, and painful intercourse. If untreated, PID can lead to serious complications, such as infertility, ectopic pregnancy, and chronic pelvic pain. Treatment typically involves antibiotics to clear the infection.
syphilis
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. It progresses in stages:
Primary stage: A painless sore (chancre) appears at the site of infection, usually genital, anal, or oral.
Secondary stage: Skin rashes, mucous membrane lesions, and flu-like symptoms occur.
Latent stage: The infection may remain dormant without symptoms, but it can still be spread.
Tertiary stage: If untreated, syphilis can cause severe damage to organs like the heart, liver, and nerves, potentially leading to blindness, paralysis, or death.
Syphilis is treatable with antibiotics, typically penicillin, and early treatment is crucial to prevent complications.
