Updated: Nov 2, 2007
Historically, gonorrhea is one of the first described infectious diseases. It is caused by the gram-negative diplococcus, Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Ocularly, it affects 2 populations, the sexually active adult population and the neonate. Ophthalmia neonatorum (neonatal conjunctivitis) is described in the article Conjunctivitis, Neonatal. This article discusses the adult disease.
Conjunctivitis can occur in adults, as well as children, following direct inoculation of organisms (usually as a result of hand-eye inoculation in adults) and can lead to blindness.
In the United States, gonorrhea is the second most commonly reported notifiable disease, with 339,593 cases documented in 2005.1 More cases may be unrecognized or unreported. Incidence, once believed to be on the decline because of public health initiatives, has been rising since 1984; however, rates in some demographic segments (eg, homosexuals) have decreased.
Incidence of antibiotic-resistant strains has been rising since the late 1940s. Of greatest concern is the rise in the percentage of cases due to penicillinase-producing N gonorrhoeae (PPNG).
Similar to the United States, in most countries, it is a ubiquitous infectious disease. Approximately 200 million new cases of gonorrhea occur worldwide each year.
Gonorrhea is a major cause of morbidity throughout the world.
No racial predilection exists, but the disease is most common among urban poor and minority groups.
Gonococcal infections are 1.5 times more common in men than in women.
In all patients presenting with possible STDs, history should include past history of STDs (including HIV), known symptoms of STDs in current or past partners, type of contraception, and any history of sexual assault.
In women, history also should include the date of the last menstrual period and the details of parity, including any history of ectopic pregnancies.
Gonococcal infection usually follows mucosal inoculation during vaginal, anal, or oral sexual contact. It also may be caused by inoculation of mucosa by contaminated fingers or other objects.
Neonatal infection may follow conjunctival inoculation during birth or direct infection through the scalp at the sites of fetal monitoring electrodes.
| Conjunctivitis, Allergic | Dacryocystitis |
| Conjunctivitis, Bacterial | Endophthalmitis, Bacterial |
| Conjunctivitis, Neonatal | Keratitis, Bacterial |
| Conjunctivitis, Viral | Trachoma |
| Contact Lens Complications |
Gram-negative intracellular diplococci are seen microscopically.
Treatment of N gonorrhoeae and Chlamydia trachomatis is generally indicated for lower genitourinary infections, PID, epididymitis, proctitis, pharyngitis, conjunctivitis, and DGI. Antibiotics for coverage of gonococcal infection are listed below. Additional regimens are available but show no clear advantage over the antibiotics. Chlamydial infection or suspected infection is covered by azithromycin or doxycycline. Erythromycin and amoxicillin are less effective but should be substituted in pregnant women and children. Treatment of PID may require coverage for additional organisms, including enteric anaerobes.
Empiric antimicrobial therapy must be comprehensive and should cover all likely pathogens in the context of the clinical setting.
Bactericidal activity results from inhibition of cell wall synthesis. Has high degree of stability in presence of beta-lactamases, both penicillinases and cephalosporinases, of gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria.
Urethral, endocervical, rectal, pharyngeal, or conjunctivitis: 125 mg IM once
Deep ophthalmic or disseminated (arthritis, meningitis): 2 g/d IV/IM
Urethral, endocervical, rectal, pharyngeal, or conjunctivitis: Administer as in adults
Deep ophthalmic or disseminated (arthritis, meningitis): 50-100 mg/kg/d IV/IM
Probenecid may increase ceftriaxone levels; coadministration with ethacrynic acid, furosemide, and aminoglycosides may increase nephrotoxicity
Documented hypersensitivity
B - Fetal risk not confirmed in studies in humans but has been shown in some studies in animals
Although transient elevations of BUN and serum creatinine have been observed, at recommended dosages, nephrotoxic potential is similar to that of other cephalosporins; in hepatic dysfunction and significant renal disease, dosage should not exceed 2 g qd if not monitoring closely; alterations in prothrombin times may occur; in impaired vitamin K synthesis or low vitamin K stores (eg, chronic hepatic disease, malnutrition) monitoring of prothrombin time may be required; vitamin K administration (10 mg weekly) may be necessary if prothrombin time is prolonged before or during therapy
Prolonged use may result in overgrowth of nonsusceptible organisms; caution in individuals with history of gastrointestinal disease, especially colitis; sonographic abnormalities in gallbladder of patients treated with Rocephin may occur; chemical nature of sonographically detected material has been determined to be predominantly a ceftriaxone-calcium salt (condition appears to be transient and reversible upon discontinuation of medication and institution of conservative management)
Discontinue treatment if symptoms suggestive of gallbladder disease and/or the sonographic findings described above develop
Treats mild-to-moderate microbial infections.
Day 1: 500 mg PO
Days 2-5: 250 mg PO qd
Day 1: 10 mg/kg PO once; not to exceed 500 mg/d
Days 2-5: 5 mg/kg PO qd; not to exceed 250 mg/d
May increase toxicity of theophylline, warfarin, and digoxin; effects are reduced with coadministration of aluminum and/or magnesium antacids; nephrotoxicity and neurotoxicity may occur when coadministered with cyclosporine
Documented hypersensitivity; hepatic impairment; do not administer with pimozide
B - Fetal risk not confirmed in studies in humans but has been shown in some studies in animals
Site reactions can occur with IV route; bacterial or fungal overgrowth may result with prolonged antibiotic use; may increase hepatic enzymes and cholestatic jaundice; caution in patients with impaired hepatic function, prolonged QT intervals, or pneumonia; caution in hospitalized, geriatric, or debilitated patients
Inhibits protein synthesis and thus bacterial growth by binding to 30S and possibly 50S ribosomal subunits of susceptible bacteria.
100-200 mg/d PO qd or divided bid for 10-14 d
<8 years: Not recommended
>8 years: 2-5 mg/kg/d qd or divided bid; not to exceed 200 mg/d
Bioavailability decreases with antacids containing aluminum, calcium, magnesium, iron, or bismuth subsalicylate; tetracyclines can increase hypoprothrombinemic effects of anticoagulants; tetracyclines can decrease effects of oral contraceptives, causing breakthrough bleeding and increased risk of pregnancy
Documented hypersensitivity; severe hepatic dysfunction
D - Fetal risk shown in humans; use only if benefits outweigh risk to fetus
Photosensitivity may occur with prolonged exposure to sunlight or tanning equipment; reduce dose in renal impairment; consider drug serum level determinations in prolonged therapy; tetracycline use during tooth development (last one half of pregnancy through age 8 y) can cause permanent discoloration of teeth; Fanconilike syndrome may occur with outdated tetracyclines
Inhibits bacterial growth, possibly by blocking dissociation of peptidyl t-RNA from ribosomes causing RNA-dependent protein synthesis to arrest. For treatment of staphylococcal and streptococcal infections.
In children, age, weight, and severity of infection determine proper dosage. When bid dosing is desired, half-total daily dose may be taken q12h. For more severe infections, double the dose.
250 mg erythromycin stearate/base (or 400 mg ethylsuccinate) PO q6h, or 500 mg q12h (1 h ac or 2 pc)
Alternatively, 333 mg PO q8h; increase to 4 g/d depending on severity of infection
30-50 mg/kg/d (15-25 mg/lb/d) PO divided q6-8h; double dose for severe infection
Coadministration may increase toxicity of theophylline, digoxin, carbamazepine, and cyclosporine; may potentiate anticoagulant effects of warfarin; coadministration with lovastatin and simvastatin, increases risk of rhabdomyolysis
Documented hypersensitivity; hepatic impairment
B - Fetal risk not confirmed in studies in humans but has been shown in some studies in animals
Caution in liver disease; estolate formulation may cause cholestatic jaundice; GI adverse effects are common (give doses pc); discontinue use if nausea, vomiting, malaise, abdominal colic, or fever occur
Interferes with synthesis of cell wall mucopeptides during active multiplication resulting in bactericidal activity against susceptible bacteria.
250-500 mg PO q8h; not to exceed 3 g/d
20-50 mg/kg/d PO divided q8h
Reduces the efficacy of oral contraceptives
Documented hypersensitivity
B - Fetal risk not confirmed in studies in humans but has been shown in some studies in animals
Adjust dose in renal impairment
Used to treat most types of gonorrhea. Given by injection into a muscle. Sometimes given with other medicines for gonorrhea and related infections.
May be used in patients who are allergic to penicillins, cephalosporins, or probenecid (eg, Benemid). This medicine also is used to treat recent sexual partners of patients who have gonorrhea.
Second-line treatment of gonorrhea and gonococcal urethritis, cervicitis, or proctitis in patients who are infected with penicillin-resistant strains of N gonorrhoeae. Treatment of gonorrhea and gonococcal urethritis, cervicitis, or proctitis in patients allergic to beta-lactam anti-infectives (including ceftriaxone).
Inhibits bacterial protein synthesis at the level of the 30S ribosome. Bactericidal action against susceptible organisms. Most notable for activity against N gonorrhoeae, including penicillinase-producing strains (PPNG). Not active against Treponema pallidum or C trachomatis.
Adults and children 45 kg (99 lb) and over: 2 g IM single dose
Infants: Not recommended
Children up to 45 kg (99 lb): 40 mg/kg of body weight IM single dose
None reported
Documented hypersensitivity; neonates (diluent contains benzyl alcohol)
C - Fetal risk revealed in studies in animals but not established or not studied in humans; may use if benefits outweigh risk to fetus
Concurrent infection with other STD (additional anti-infectives may be required); pregnancy, breastfeeding, or children (safety not established; has been used)
Treats gram-positive and gram-negative organisms, as well as mycoplasmal, chlamydial, and rickettsial infections. Inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding with 30S and possibly 50S ribosomal subunit(s).
500 mg PO qid
<8 years: Not recommended
>8 years: 25-50 mg/kg/d (10-20 mg/lb) PO qid
Bioavailability decreases with antacids containing aluminum, calcium, magnesium, iron, or bismuth subsalicylate; can decrease effects of oral contraceptives, causing breakthrough bleeding and increased risk of pregnancy; tetracyclines can increase hypoprothrombinemic effects of anticoagulants
Documented hypersensitivity; severe hepatic dysfunction
D - Fetal risk shown in humans; use only if benefits outweigh risk to fetus
Photosensitivity may occur with prolonged exposure to sunlight or tanning equipment; reduce dose in renal impairment; consider drug serum level determinations in prolonged therapy; tetracycline use during tooth development (last one half of pregnancy through age 8 y) can cause permanent discoloration of teeth; Fanconilike syndrome may occur with outdated tetracyclines
Third-generation oral cephalosporin with broad activity against gram-negative bacteria. By binding to one or more of the penicillin-binding proteins, it arrests bacterial cell wall synthesis and inhibits bacterial growth.
Note: After a period of inavailability, oral cefixime is again FDA-approved in tablet and suspension forms. However, at the time of writing, tablets remain unavailable in the United States. Wyeth Pharmaceuticals (Collegeville, Pa) discontinued manufacturing cefixime (Suprax) in the United States. In October 2002, the company ceased marketing cefixime tablets (200 mg and 400 mg) because of depletion of company inventory; the company's patent for cefixime expired on November 10, 2002.
400 mg/d PO (recommended for gonococcal infections) or 200 mg PO q12h
<12 years: 8 mg/kg/d suspension PO or 4 mg/kg bid
>50 kg or >12 years: Administer as in adults
Coadministration of aminoglycosides increase nephrotoxicity; probenecid may increase effects of cefixime
Documented hypersensitivity
B - Fetal risk not confirmed in studies in humans but has been shown in some studies in animals
Adjust dose in severe renal insufficiency (high doses may cause CNS toxicity); superinfections and promotion of nonsusceptible organisms may occur with prolonged use or repeated therapy
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Updated recommended treatment regimens for gonococcal infections and associated conditions - United States, April 2007. CDC. Available at http://www.cdc.gov/std/treatment/2006/updated-regimens.htm. Accessed July 17, 2007.
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gonorrhea, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, N gonorrhoeae, hyperacute conjunctivitis, sexually transmitted disease, STD
Mounir Bashour, MD, CM, FRCS(C), PhD, FACS, Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology, McGill University; Clinical Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology, Sherbrooke University; Medical Director, Cornea Laser and Lasik MD
Mounir Bashour, MD, CM, FRCS(C), PhD, FACS is a member of the following medical societies: American Academy of Ophthalmology, American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus, American College of International Physicians, American College of Surgeons, American Medical Association, American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, American Society of Mechanical Engineers, American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Biomedical Engineering Society, Canadian Medical Association, Canadian Ophthalmological Society, Contact Lens Association of Ophthalmologists, International College of Surgeons US Section, Ontario Medical Association, Quebec Medical Association, and Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada
Disclosure: Nothing to disclose.
Fernando H Murillo-Lopez, MD, Senior Surgeon, Unidad Privada de Oftalmologia CEMES
Fernando H Murillo-Lopez, MD is a member of the following medical societies: American Academy of Ophthalmology
Disclosure: Nothing to disclose.
Simon K Law, MD, PharmD, Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology, Jules Stein Eye Institute; Chief of Section of Ophthalmology Surgical Services, Department of Veterans Affairs Healthcare Center, West Los Angeles
Simon K Law, MD, PharmD is a member of the following medical societies: American Academy of Ophthalmology, American Glaucoma Society, and Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology
Disclosure: Nothing to disclose.
Christopher J Rapuano, MD, Professor, Department of Ophthalmology, Jefferson Medical College; Co-Chairman of the Cornea Service, Co-Chairman of Refractive Surgery Department, Wills Eye Hospital
Christopher J Rapuano, MD is a member of the following medical societies: American Academy of Ophthalmology, Eye Bank Association of America, Pennsylvania Medical Society, and Philadelphia County Medical Society
Disclosure: Nothing to disclose.
Lance L Brown, OD, MD, Ophthalmologist, Affiliated With Freeman Hospital and St John's Hospital, Regional Eye Center, Joplin, Missouri
Disclosure: Nothing to disclose.
Hampton Roy Sr, MD, Associate Clinical Professor, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
Hampton Roy Sr, MD is a member of the following medical societies: American Academy of Ophthalmology, American College of Surgeons, and Pan-American Association of Ophthalmology
Disclosure: Nothing to disclose.
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