STD Risks: Concerns About Skin Injuries and Infection

Please ask again?

Hello, doctor.
I am the person who had a small abrasion near the penile frenulum due to masturbation, and I am worried about the possibility of infection from touching external surfaces such as restroom doorknobs or faucets, and then touching the abrasion, potentially leading to HIV, syphilis, or gonorrhea.

1.
I would like to ask about the previous response regarding the two pimples on my calf, which I was concerned might be a symptom of secondary syphilis.
The doctor mentioned it doesn't seem like it and that I shouldn't worry "for now." Does "for now" mean that if there are no additional symptoms or if the condition doesn't worsen, I shouldn't be concerned?
2.
If I have not engaged in sexual activity, do I still need to get tested for HIV, syphilis, or gonorrhea based solely on the behaviors I mentioned?
3.
Are the behaviors I described likely to result in an infection with HIV, syphilis, or gonorrhea?
4.
How long should I wait without any symptoms to feel reassured that I have not contracted HIV, syphilis, or gonorrhea?
5.
For secondary syphilis, would there typically be widespread rashes present?
6.
Should I genuinely not worry about the risk of infection from having an abrasion and then touching doorknobs, faucets, or other external surfaces before touching the abrasion on my penis?
7.
I am concerned that there might be blood or bodily fluids containing viruses left on restroom doorknobs or faucets, and that if I touch those and then my abrasion, I could contract a sexually transmitted infection.
Is this a valid concern?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/07/10

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello,
1.
Based on the symptoms you described, they are not indicative of syphilis, and the manner of contact you mentioned would not lead to syphilis transmission.

2.
Most sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are transmitted through sexual intercourse; a small number of HIV cases can be transmitted through blood, but not through the type of contact you described.

3.
The type of contact you described does not transmit STIs.

4.
It is generally recommended to observe for three months; if you are still concerned, you may extend the observation period to about six months.

5.
Unique rashes can occur all over the body, and for this, it is advisable to have a dermatologist or an infectious disease specialist evaluate the rash's characteristics.

6.
The manner of contact you described indeed does not pose a risk for the STIs mentioned.

7.
Typically, hands do not come into contact with large amounts of blood, and for transmission to occur, the volume of blood would need to be significant, along with a large wound on your part, which makes the type of contact you described unlikely to result in STI transmission.

Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2019/07/10

More Info

When it comes to understanding the risks of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) such as HIV, syphilis, and gonorrhea, especially in the context of skin injuries and potential exposure to contaminated surfaces, it's essential to consider several factors.
1. Understanding the Risk of Transmission: The primary modes of transmission for HIV and other STDs include sexual contact, sharing needles, and from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding. The risk of transmission through casual contact with surfaces like doorknobs or faucets is extremely low. HIV does not survive long outside the human body, and it cannot reproduce outside a human host. Therefore, the likelihood of contracting HIV or other STDs from touching a contaminated surface and then touching a small skin injury is minimal.

2. Skin Injuries and Infection: In your case, you mentioned having a small injury near the penis and concerns about touching contaminated surfaces. While it is theoretically possible for blood or bodily fluids to be present on surfaces, the risk of these fluids containing viable HIV or other pathogens is very low. For transmission to occur, there needs to be a significant amount of infectious fluid, and the fluid must come into direct contact with a mucous membrane or an open wound.
3. Symptoms and Monitoring: Regarding your concerns about the two sores on your leg potentially being a sign of secondary syphilis, it is important to note that secondary syphilis typically presents with widespread rashes and systemic symptoms. If the sores do not change or worsen, and if you do not develop other symptoms, the likelihood of them being related to syphilis is low. However, if you have concerns, it is always prudent to consult a healthcare provider for testing and reassurance.

4. Testing for STDs: If you have not engaged in high-risk behaviors (such as unprotected sex or sharing needles), the need for routine testing for HIV or other STDs may not be necessary. However, if you have any symptoms or if you are concerned about potential exposure, it is advisable to get tested. Regular testing is a good practice for sexually active individuals, especially if there are changes in sexual partners or practices.

5. Timeframe for Symptoms: The incubation period for STDs varies. For example, HIV can take several weeks to months to show symptoms, while syphilis can present symptoms within a few weeks to months after exposure. If you remain symptom-free for several weeks to months, it is generally a good sign, but it does not completely rule out the possibility of infection.
6. Environmental Concerns: Your worry about touching surfaces like doorknobs or faucets and then touching your injury is understandable but largely unfounded in terms of STD transmission. The risk of contracting HIV or other STDs through this route is extremely low. Maintaining good hygiene practices, such as washing your hands regularly, can further reduce any minimal risk.

7. Conclusion: In summary, while it is natural to be concerned about potential exposure to STDs, the specific scenario you described poses a very low risk for transmission. If you are still worried or if symptoms develop, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice and testing if necessary. Regular check-ups and open communication with healthcare providers are key components of maintaining sexual health.

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