OVER THE PAST DECADE, the incidence and spectrum of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) have increased dramatically, now reaching epidemic proportions. Although these diseases have afflicted people for many years, the association with newly recognized and more serious conditions, such as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), has fostered growing awareness and even greater emphasis on STDs.Because many patients with STDs initially present to the emergency department (ED), the emergency physician has assumed a pivotal role in the recognition, management, and prevention of STDs.