The syndromic management of sexually transmitted diseases : clinical microbiological response in relation to aetiology, susceptibility patterns and co-infection with HIV-1 [electronic resource].

Abstract

HIV-1 is the most prevalent and notorious sexually transmitted pathogen locally, and constantly challenges our foundation of knowledge regarding the classical STIs. The ultimate objective of the syndromic management strategy was to reduce the load of sexually transmitted infections, and hence HIV transmission. This strategy is multifaceted and not only includes the recognition of symptoms by the patient and an effective treatment regime that comprehensively covers the possible aetiological agents for a defined syndrome, but also appropriate health seeking behaviour of infected individuals, recognition of syndromes by the health care worker, partner management (notification and treatment), behavioural counselling and condom promotion. Understanding the complexity of sexual networking and transmission dynamics is part of such a strategy. So, although the rationale and design of syndromic case management appears simplistic, it is by no means easy to implement