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What is Disseminated Gonococcal Infection and Why It Matters?
Published: Sep 24, 2024
Disseminated Gonococcal Infection (DGI) is a serious condition caused by the spread of a common sexually transmitted infection. It can lead to symptoms like joint pain and skin lesions, requiring prompt medical attention.
The Causes and Spread of DGI
DGI results from the bacteremic spread of Neisseria gonorrhoeae, a bacterium responsible for gonorrhea. While gonorrhea often affects mucosal surfaces, in some cases, it can spread through the bloodstream, leading to DGI. This condition is more prevalent among sexually active individuals and those with multiple partners.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Symptoms of DGI can vary but often include joint pain, skin lesions, and sometimes fever and malaise. A common presentation is tenosynovitis, dermatitis, and polyarthralgia, known as the arthritis-dermatitis syndrome. Another form is purulent arthritis, which involves painful, swollen joints.
Diagnosing DGI
Diagnosis involves a combination of clinical evaluation and laboratory tests. Blood and synovial fluid cultures are important, though often negative. Nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) are preferred for detecting Neisseria gonorrhoeae in mucosal specimens.
Frequently Asked Questions
DGI is caused by the spread of Neisseria gonorrhoeae through the bloodstream.
Sexually active individuals, especially those with multiple partners, are at higher risk.
Diagnosis involves clinical evaluation and laboratory tests, including NAATs.
Joint pain, skin lesions, and fever are common symptoms.
The Bottom Line
Recognizing and treating DGI early is crucial to prevent complications.
References
- Barr J, Danielsson D. Septic gonococcal dermatitis. Br Med J 1971; 1:482.
- Tuttle CS, Van Dantzig T, Brady S, et al. The epidemiology of gonococcal arthritis in an Indigenous Australian population. Sex Transm Infect 2015; 91:497.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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