What is oral gonorrhea?

Oral gonorrhea

Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Neisseria gonorrhoeae is an uncommon, sexually transmitted cause of acute pharyngitis seen in persons who practice recep-tive oral sex. The risk of acquisition by this means is highest in men who have sex with men (MSM). Rates of pharyngeal gonorrhea in MSM have been reported as being as high as 15%.

Although the presence of gonorrhea in the pharynx is common, it is rare for the patient to show any visible symptoms.

When symptoms of oral infection does occur, pharyngitis and tonsillitis are the most common symptoms of oral gonorrhea infection. Sore throat, swollen tonsils, and grayish-yellowish exudates are also common symptoms.

The diagnosis can be verified by cell culture from a general physician. Currently, ceftriaxone (125 mg in a singular intramuscular dose) is the only CDC recommended therapy for pharyngeal gonorrhea. Infected patients should also be tested for Chlamydia at the same time.