Venereal diseases are epidemic in the United States. Gonorrhea is the venereal disease of greatest current concern. Adolescents 15 to 19 yr old and adults from 20 to 24 yr old bear a disproportionate share of the increase in reported gonorrhea infections and of the absolute number of cases. Increased promiscuity and changes in contraceptive usage may be contributing to the increase of disease. Changes in understanding of the epidemiology of gonorrhea have altered the approach to controlling this disease. Recommendations for therapy have likewise changed as gonococcal susceptibility to antibiotics has decreased. Diagnosis and therapy of syphilis have meanwhile remained relatively stable. Proper management of the patient with venereal disease requires consideration of the medical, epidemiologic, and behavioral aspects of venereal disease control.
