Sex differences in the transmission, prevention, and disease manifestations of sexually transmitted diseases

Arch Dermatol. 2006 Mar;142(3):365-70. doi: 10.1001/archderm.142.3.365.

Abstract

Background: Dermatological manifestations of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) range from full body papulosquamous eruptions to genital ulcers and warts. The transmission, prevalence, and disease burden of STDs are not shared equally between the sexes.

Observations: Women are more susceptible than men for the acquisition of the human immunodeficiency virus and other dangerous STDs because of economic, biological, and social factors, and often sustain more damage to their health from the disease. Conclusion This review article elucidates the differential effect of STDs on women vs men to better understand what is required to protect women from the morbidity and mortality of STDs.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • HIV Infections / diagnosis
  • HIV Infections / prevention & control
  • HIV Infections / transmission
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications, Infectious
  • Sex Factors
  • Sexually Transmitted Diseases* / diagnosis
  • Sexually Transmitted Diseases* / prevention & control
  • Sexually Transmitted Diseases* / transmission