Common pitfalls in the diagnosis and treatment of sexually transmitted diseases.

To facilitate proper diagnosis of STDs, they must be considered as a diagnostic possibility in all sexually active patients. Whenever possible, appropriate laboratory tests must be performed to confirm a clinical diagnosis. Once the diagnosis is established, the physician can administer specific and adequate treatment. The physician should have a comprehensive up-to-date treatment schedule to select a recommended treatment. Such treatment schedules are available upon request from most municipal and state health departments.