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Biomedical subjects

Linda Dayan

Publications and source records attributed to Linda Dayan.

17 recordsLinked to original sources
PubMed2006

Men who have sex with men--a management approach for GPs.

BACKGROUND: At least one in 20 Australian men report sexual contact with another man in their lifetime. Men who have sex with other men have higher rates of sexually transmitted infections, and are more likely to experience mental health problems and use recreational drugs and alcohol. OBJECTIVE: This article describes the health problems and sexual behaviour of men who have sex with men and provides an outline and an approach to discussing sexuality in general practice. DISCUSSION: Sexuality can be difficult to discuss in general practice. A nonjudgmental approach to men who have sex with men may facilitate early identification of the relevant health issues.

Australia↗
PubMed2006

Pelvic inflammatory disease.

BACKGROUND: Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a treatable condition with serious long term sequelae. The recognition and diagnosis of PID can be challenging due to the wide spectrum of disease and clinical presentation. OBJECTIVE: This article discusses the presentation, aetiology, diagnosis, management, and prevention of PID. DISCUSSION: A high index of suspicion and a low threshold for treatment for women at risk of PID may help decrease the burden of serious associated morbidity. Screening for chlamydia in young sexually active women may reduce the incidence of PID.

Algorithms↗
PubMed2005

Syphilis treatment: old and new.

Syphilis has challenged scientists and clinicians since its first appearance in the late 1400s and debate continues to surround the best practice in management. Difficulties in defining the goals of successful treatment have contributed to problems in determining recommendations for the ideal management. Treatment regimens currently in use were developed before randomised controlled trials became standard. This, combined with national differences in disease definition, staging and varying interpretations of the studies, as well as the emergence of complicating comorbid conditions, such as HIV, has resulted in a lack of consensus for treatment. This paper will discuss the history and current treatment of syphilis focusing on dilemmas faced by clinicians today, including the emergence of a resistant strain. Despite the difference between current national guidelines, penicillin G largely remains the treatment of choice. Close follow up, monitoring and ensuring adequate compliance remain the most important aspects in the treatment of syphilis.

Anti-Bacterial Agents↗
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↗
PubMed2004

STIs in pregnancy. An update for GPs.

BACKGROUND: Pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are both consequences of unprotected vaginal sex. In addition to causing maternal morbidity in their own right, many STIs including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) can be transmitted to the neonate. Antenatal screening during pregnancy provides an opportunity to minimise or eliminate the antepartum, intrapartum and postpartum consequences of most STIs. OBJECTIVE: This article discusses the diagnosis, management and treatments available for STIs in pregnancy to minimise morbidity and mortality for both mother and child. DISCUSSION: HIV testing in antenatal care should be added to routine syphilis and hepatitis B serology, as effective HIV interventions can significantly reduce the risk of mother-child transmission. Consideration should be given to testing in women less than 25 years of age for chlamydia and those women at increased sexual risk. Male partners should not be forgotten and contact tracing, treatment and follow up offered. Due to the very small risk associated with genital warts and genital herpes, normalisation, information and reassurance are appropriate for the majority of women affected.

Adolescent↗
PubMed2003

The sexually transmitted infection 'check up'.

BACKGROUND: Many sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and blood borne viruses (BBV) such as HIV are asymptomatic. Early detection is important for minimising associated risks. With appropriate treatment and management (including contact tracing) it is possible to substantially reduce morbidity as well as transmission to sexual partners and the neonate. OBJECTIVE: This paper outlines which tests should be administered to otherwise 'well' individuals. It also examines the questions of when, why and how to respond to requests for an STI 'screen' or 'check up'. DISCUSSION: Testing and screening for asymptomatic STIs and BBV are important, especially in situations where proven interventions can decrease morbidity and transmission. Screening for STIs also provides the opportunity in a one-on-one consultation for health promotion. Sexually transmitted infection testing can also initiate a conversation about 'safer sex' and may help address other concerns patients may have.

Humans↗
PubMed2003

Pelvic inflammatory disease.

BACKGROUND: Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a treatable condition with serious long term sequelae. Due to the wide spectrum of disease and clinical presentation, diagnosis can often be challenging. OBJECTIVE: This article discusses the diagnosis, management and treatment of PID in the general practice setting. DISCUSSION: Prompt and effective treatment is essential in cases of PID. A high index of suspicion for symptomatic women at risk may help decrease the burden of serious associated morbidity.

Female↗
PubMed2003

Sexual health for travellers.

BACKGROUND: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are prevalent worldwide, yet a high proportion of international travellers engage in unprotected sex while overseas and may be at risk. OBJECTIVE: This article discusses some of the STIs that may be acquired abroad, and suggests key points of pretravel advice for the general practitioner to give the traveller before departure. DISCUSSION: Many travellers will visit their GP for pretravel vaccinations and advice. This presents an ideal opportunity for pretravel sexual health education and discussion on the risks and prevention of HIV and other STIs.

Chlamydia Infections↗
PubMed2002

Syphilis. Diagnosis and management in general practice.

BACKGROUND: Although largely regarded as an uncommon condition, recent outbreaks of syphilis in Western nations combined with the increasing popularity of travel are likely to result in increases in rates in Australia. OBJECTIVES: To discuss the common modes of presentation and interpretation of syphilis tests, and the treatment of syphilis at various stages. DISCUSSION: Accurate interpretation of syphilis test results is essential for staging of disease and appropriate treatment. With these skills many cases of syphilis can be effectively managed in a general practice setting.

Australia↗
PubMed2002

Genital herpes. An approach for general practitioners in Australia.

BACKGROUND: Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection that is most often asymptomatic and remains largely undiagnosed. OBJECTIVE: To discuss the diagnosis, management and treatments available for genital herpes infections. DISCUSSION: Genital herpes is a common infection with significant associated morbidity. Along with diagnosis and appropriate treatment, patient education, counselling and support are essential for effective management.

Adolescent↗