Warts are caused by infection with human papilloma virus (HPV). So far more than 50 HPV genotypes have been described. Several genotypes are well characterised as occurring mainly in the genital tract causing various lesions including venereal warts or condylomata acuminata and microscopic changes in the epithelium of the cervix, vagina, vulva, penis or rectum. [...]

Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) is caused by Chlamydia trachomatis (serotypes LI, L2 and L3) and is characterised by inguinal lymphadenopathy (buboes) and rectal strictures. Highest prevalence is in the tropics. LGV is rarely diagnosed in Australia but may be seen in people who have come from Asia or Africa. It may be underreported and misdiagnosed because [...]

The diagnosis of chlamydia is commonly presumptive but should be confirmed using laboratory tests. Direct detection using commercially available immunofluorescence or ELISA monoclonal antibody techniques permits rapid diagnosis. False positive and negative results occur; false positive results can be a problem, particularly in patients who deny risk of sexually transmitted infection. Results must be interpreted [...]

Urethritis may present with urethral discharge, tingling, itchiness and dysuria. Posterior urethritis may cause frequency and urgency. The discharge may be watery or sticky or thick and pumlent If the discharge is frankly purulent, the infection is more likely to be gonococcal. Meatal inflammation may be present particularly in gonococcal urethritis. The infection may progress [...]

The importance of pelvic inflammatory disease and its relationship to sexually transmitted infections, particularly gonorrhoea and chlamydia, are more clearly recognised. STDs such as donovanosis, chancroid and lymphogranuloma venereum mainly occur in tropical countries. Donovanosis is commonly seen in Papua New Guinea and is a common cause of ulcerative genital lesions in Aborigines in northern [...]