Other STIs and Genital Conditions

Disseminated gonococcal infection

This slide illustrates a disseminated gonococcal infection (DGI), showing swelling of the interphalangeal area of the third digit in addition to lesions on the fingers and nails. A splinter hemorrhage and a pustular necrotic lesion are visible on the fourth digit.

It is estimated that 0.5-3% of untreated gonococcal infections progress to DGI. DGI, which is more common in women, is a result of gonococcal bacteremia. It causes a variety of symptoms including acute arthritis, tenosynovitis and dermatitis.

photo reproduced with the permission of Dr. Marc Steben