What is Disseminated Gonococcal Infection and Why It Matters?

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

Key Takeaways

Recognizing and treating DGI early is crucial to prevent complications.

Related Articles

• Who is at Risk for Disseminated Gonococcal Infection?
• How is Disseminated Gonococcal Infection Treated?
• How is Disseminated Gonococcal Infection Diagnosed?
• How Can You Prevent Disseminated Gonococcal Infection?

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