About the Book

The STI (Sexually Transmitted Infection) Handbook: A Comprehensive Guide for Clinicians and Patients is a meticulously crafted resource designed to address the diagnosis, management, and prevention of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This first edition, published in February 2025, is the collective work of eight distinguished medical professionals, combining their expertise in microbiology, infectious diseases, and clinical medicine.

The book takes a dual approach — offering evidence-based clinical guidelines for healthcare providers while presenting clear, accessible information for patients. It covers a wide range of STIs caused by bacterial, viral, fungal, and protozoal pathogens, including gonorrhea, chlamydial infections, syphilis, herpes simplex virus, human papillomavirus (HPV), and vaginal candidiasis.

Key features of the book include:

• Diagnostic Protocols: Detailed procedures for laboratory testing — from specimen collection and microscopy to advanced nucleic acid amplification tests (NAAT) — ensuring accurate identification of STI pathogens.

• Clinical Management: Comprehensive algorithms for syndromic and etiological management of common STI presentations, such as vaginal discharge, urethral discharge, and genital ulcers.

• Public Health Focus: Insights into the epidemiology of STIs, the intersection with HIV/AIDS, and strategies for prevention and control at both individual and community levels.

• Patient Education: A dedicated section that explains STI symptoms, treatment options, and preventive measures, fostering awareness and reducing stigma.

• Quality Control in Labs: Guidelines on biosafety, quality assurance, and maintaining high standards in diagnostic laboratories.

This handbook is a valuable resource for clinicians, microbiologists, medical students, and public health professionals. It also serves as a reliable guide for patients seeking to better understand STIs and how to manage them effectively.

Through this collaborative effort, the authors aim to enhance diagnostic accuracy, streamline treatment protocols, and strengthen public health strategies — ultimately contributing to better sexual and reproductive health outcomes.