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Ch. 27 The Reproductive System
Hoehn - Marieb Human Anatomy & Physiology, 12th edition
Hoehn, Haynes, Abbott12th EditionMarieb Human Anatomy & PhysiologyISBN: 9780138242732Not the one you use?Change textbook
All textbooksHoehn, Haynes, Abbott 12th EditionCh. 27 The Reproductive SystemProblem 23
Chapter 27, Problem 23

Grant, a sexually active adolescent, visited his doctor complaining of a red, painless swelling on his penis. He has no penile discharge or pain on urination. An account of his recent sexual behavior was requested and recorded.
a. What do you think Grant's problem is?
b. What is the causative agent of this disorder?
c. How is the condition treated, and what may happen if it isn't treated?

Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Analyze the symptoms described in the problem. Grant has a red, painless swelling on his penis, no penile discharge, and no pain during urination. These symptoms are characteristic of a primary chancre, which is often associated with syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection (STI).
Step 2: Identify the causative agent of the disorder. Syphilis is caused by the bacterium *Treponema pallidum*. This bacterium is transmitted through direct contact with a syphilitic sore during sexual activity.
Step 3: Explain the treatment for syphilis. The primary treatment for syphilis is antibiotics, typically penicillin. Early stages of syphilis are highly treatable with a single dose of intramuscular penicillin G. For individuals allergic to penicillin, alternative antibiotics such as doxycycline or azithromycin may be used.
Step 4: Discuss the consequences of untreated syphilis. If syphilis is not treated, it can progress to secondary and tertiary stages, leading to severe complications such as damage to the heart, brain, nerves, and other organs. Late-stage syphilis can result in neurological and cardiovascular issues, and it may even be fatal.
Step 5: Emphasize the importance of prevention and follow-up. Encourage safe sexual practices, such as using condoms and regular STI screenings, to prevent syphilis and other STIs. Follow-up testing is crucial to ensure the infection has been fully eradicated after treatment.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

STIs are infections that are primarily spread through sexual contact. Common symptoms can include sores, discharge, and swelling, but some STIs may be asymptomatic. Understanding STIs is crucial for diagnosing conditions like Grant's, as they can present with various symptoms and require specific treatments.
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Causative Agents of STIs

Causative agents of STIs include bacteria, viruses, and parasites. For example, the bacterium Treponema pallidum causes syphilis, while Neisseria gonorrhoeae causes gonorrhea. Identifying the specific causative agent is essential for determining the appropriate treatment and understanding potential complications.
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Treatment and Consequences of Untreated STIs

Treatment for STIs often involves antibiotics or antiviral medications, depending on the causative agent. If left untreated, STIs can lead to serious health issues, including infertility, chronic pain, and increased risk of HIV transmission. Understanding the importance of timely treatment is vital for preventing long-term complications.
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Related Practice
Textbook Question

Oogenesis in the female results in one functional gamete—the egg, or ovum. What other cells are produced? What is the significance of this rather wasteful type of gamete production—that is, production of a single functional gamete instead of four, as seen in males?

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Textbook Question

Gina Marciano, a 44-year-old mother of eight children, visited her physician complaining of a 'bearing down' sensation in her pelvis, low backache, and urinary incontinence. A vaginal examination showed that the external os of her cervix was just inside the vaginal orifice and her perineum exhibited large keloids (masses of scar tissue). What do you think Gina's problem is and what caused it? (Be anatomically specific.)

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Textbook Question

A 36-year-old mother of four is considering tubal ligation to ensure that her family gets no larger. She asks the physician if she will become 'menopausal' after the surgery.

a. How would you answer her question and explain away her concerns?

b. Explain what a tubal ligation is.

Textbook Question

Both the epithelium of the vagina and the cervical glands of the uterus help prevent the invasion and spread of vaginal pathogens. Explain how each of these mechanisms works.

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