Proctocolitis and enteric sexually acquired infections

Abstract

This chapter describes the important causes of sexually acquired enteric infections, proctitis, and proctocolitis. The key terms are defined, and the epidemiology and clinical presentations of the conditions are discussed. The bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections are reviewed. Common sexually transmitted causes of proctitis include Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis (D-K and LGV genotypes), and syphilis; these are on the increase. Non-sexual transmitted causes are outlined, as these can cause proctocolitis and need to be considered in the differential, but can often be distinguished with good history taking. Key investigations are outlined. Specific treatment of some of these are discussed, where not referred to elsewhere.