Biomedical subjects

Belinda Sheary

Publications and source records attributed to Belinda Sheary.

4 recordsLinked to original sources

PubMed2005

Recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis.

BACKGROUND: Recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis affects up to 5% of premenopausal women. It is often associated with significant morbidity and may be difficult to manage. OBJECTIVE: This article discusses the pathogenesis investigations and management of recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis. DISCUSSION: Recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis may be misdiagnosed as presenting signs and symptoms are not specific. Examination and microbial testing are required to confirm the diagnosis. Some women appear to have an abnormal host response to the presence of candida species in the vagina, making them susceptible to recurrent episodes of symptomatic infection. Women with recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis generally respond to a course of suppressive treatment, but many relapse after ceasing therapy.

Antifungal Agents↗

PubMed2005

Cervical screening and human papillomavirus.

BACKGROUND: Cervical screening in Australia has been successful in reducing the incidence and mortality of cervical cancer. Human papilloma virus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection and an integral agent in the development of cervical cancer. OBJECTIVE: This article discusses cervical screening, HPV infection and counselling women with low grade abnormalities on cervical cytology. DISCUSSION: For most women, detectable HPV infection is transient and subclinical. While HPV is a precursor to cervical cancer, this is a rare outcome of HPV infection. Minor abnormalities on cervical cytology reflecting acute HPV infection are common. Women with low grade Pap test abnormalities require reassurance and education about the prevalence and natural history of HPV.

Cervix Uteri↗

PubMed2005

Contraception and sexually transmitted infections.

BACKGROUND: Many women seek contraceptive advice from general practitioners. These consultations provide an opportunity to discuss the prevention of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). OBJECTIVE: This article discusses the effect of various contraceptive methods on the transmission of STIs and HIV. It also highlights issues relevant to achieving both contraception and STI/HIV prevention, with a focus on younger women. DISCUSSION: There is no ideal method to achieve protection against both pregnancy and STIs/HIV. Counselling about risks of STIs/HIV, providing the option of being tested for bacterial STIs, hepatitis B and HIV at the start of new relationships and promoting condom use for casual sex and concurrent sexual relationships is to be encouraged.

Adolescent↗

PubMed2005

Herpes simplex virus serology in an asymptomatic patient.

BACKGROUND: Genital herpes is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections. While genital herpes can present with self limiting genital lesions, most people with genital herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection are asymptomatic or have unrecognised infection. Use of type specific serology for HSV antibodies can identify these individuals. OBJECTIVE: This article discusses the role and use of HSV serology in asymptomatic patients, including pre- and post-test counselling and interpreting results. DISCUSSION: The indications for HSV serology in an asymptomatic patient are limited. Patients tested for HSV antibodies require careful assessment and counselling. Identifying asymptomatic genital herpes should ideally only be done in cases where there may be clinical benefit. Limitations of type specific HSV serology need to be considered when interpreting the results in low risk patients.

Antibodies, Viral↗