Is B.E. (Bartholin's abscess) a sexually transmitted disease (STD)?

From the Guidelines

No, based on the provided evidence, there is no indication that the condition being referred to is an STD. The evidence provided discusses various gynecologic examinations and conditions that may be encountered in a pediatric office setting, including imperforate hymen, vaginal septum, and infections of the Bartholin and Skene glands [ 1 ]. While some of these conditions can be caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as gonorrhea and chlamydia, the text does not imply that the condition in question is an STD. Instead, it highlights the importance of a thorough gynecologic examination to identify and manage various conditions that may affect the female genital tract. Key points to consider in the examination include:

• Noting any lesions, such as papules, vesicles, pustules, ulcers, fissures, and warts, which could be signs of an STI or other dermatologic conditions [ 1 ]
• Assessing for signs of trauma, including laceration [ 1 ]
• Evaluating the presence of any blood or discharge from the vagina [ 1 ]
• Palpating inguinal nodes for size, tenderness, and consistency, as enlarged painful nodes could be an indication of an STI [ 1 ].

From the Research

Definition of an STD

• An STD, or sexually transmitted disease, is an infection that is primarily spread through sexual contact.
• STDs can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites, and can affect various parts of the body, including the genitals, anus, and throat.

Examples of STDs

• Chlamydia 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
• Gonorrhea 2, 3
• Syphilis 3
• Herpes 3

Treatment of STDs

• Antibiotics, such as doxycycline and azithromycin, are commonly used to treat bacterial STDs like chlamydia and gonorrhea 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
• Antiviral medications, such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir, are used to treat viral STDs like herpes 3
• Treatment regimens may vary depending on the specific STD, its severity, and the patient's overall health.

Specific Studies on STD Treatment

• A 2021 study published in Clinical Infectious Diseases found that doxycycline was more effective than azithromycin in treating rectal chlamydia in men who have sex with men 4
• A 2019 study published in Clinical Infectious Diseases found that doxycycline was more effective than azithromycin in treating rectal chlamydia in women 5
• A 2021 study published in The New England Journal of Medicine found that doxycycline was superior to azithromycin in treating asymptomatic rectal chlamydia in men who have sex with men 6