Precursors of Acquired Diseases
Jan 31, 2021
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Xiuyan
Introduction
Precursors of sexually transmitted infections (STIs):
1. Swollen inguinal lymph nodes—if they feel firm and are accompanied by pain;
2. Skin or mucosal lesions—painful ulcers appearing on the foreskin, penis, or glans in males, or on the external genitalia in females;
3. Genital warts—appearing on the external genitalia or perianal region;
4. Urinary symptoms—including urinary frequency and urgency.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are reproductive diseases contracted through unhygienic sexual practices or unprotected sex with multiple partners. STIs pose significant health risks, and early warning signs include the following symptoms:
1. Swelling of inguinal lymph nodes: If the inguinal lymph nodes are firm and tender, this may indicate lymphogranuloma venereum; if they are enlarged but painless, syphilis may be suspected. Additionally, persistent generalized lymphadenopathy may suggest chronic lymphadenopathy associated with HIV infection.
2. Skin or mucosal lesions: In males, these appear as erythematous patches, papules, indurated nodules, vesicles, erosions, or ulcers on the prepuce, penis, or glans. In females, painful ulcers or vesicles may develop on the external genitalia, often accompanied by pruritus, erythema, and erosion.
3. Genital warts (condylomata acuminata): These manifest as multiple, infiltrative, grayish-white, flat, elevated papules or nodules in the genital or perianal region. They tend to be moist, prone to erosion, and emit a foul odor—characteristic of flat condylomas. If located in the genital or perianal region and bleed easily, they may represent other types of anogenital warts.
4. Urinary tract symptoms: These include urinary frequency, urgency, dysuria, difficulty urinating (strangury), urinary retention, and terminal hematuria. Profuse, thick, purulent discharge from the urethral meatus suggests gonorrhea; whereas urethral meatal inflammation with adhesions causing a split or “fountain-like” urinary stream may indicate subacute gonorrhea.
