[Sexually transmitted diseases of the anus]

Abstract

Sexually transmitted diseases, despite vigorous efforts in prevention, are still existing and may provide portal of entry for human immunodeficiency virus transmission. Syphilis and gonococcal infection are decreasing but remain a problem in developing countries and their return cannot be excluded, despite active therapy. In industrial countries, viral infections are expanding. Herpes genitalis is the most common cause of genito-anal ulceration and anogenital warts have been steadily rising in the past decades. Some human papillomavirus genotypes are oncogenic. No treatment is able to eradicate them.