24 years old male complains of mild urethral mucoid discharge after sexual contact with a sex-worker. Examination is normal. Drug used to treat such a patient: September 2012
**Core Concept**
The patient is presenting with symptoms of urethral discharge, which is a common manifestation of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The clinical scenario suggests a diagnosis of non-gonococcal urethritis (NGU), which is often caused by Chlamydia trachomatis.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The treatment of choice for Chlamydia trachomatis infection is azithromycin, a macrolide antibiotic. Azithromycin acts by inhibiting protein synthesis in bacterial cells, thereby preventing the growth and multiplication of the pathogen. It is particularly effective against Chlamydia trachomatis, which has a unique life cycle involving an obligate intracellular phase.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Doxycycline is an alternative treatment option for Chlamydia trachomatis infection, but it is not the preferred choice in this scenario.
**Option B:** Ceftriaxone is a cephalosporin antibiotic that is effective against Neisseria gonorrhoeae, the causative agent of gonococcal urethritis. However, the patient's symptoms and examination findings suggest a diagnosis of non-gonococcal urethritis.
**Option C:** Metronidazole is an antibiotic used to treat infections caused by anaerobic bacteria and protozoa. It is not effective against Chlamydia trachomatis.
**Option D:** Fluconazole is an antifungal medication used to treat fungal infections. It is not indicated in the treatment of bacterial STIs such as Chlamydia trachomatis infection.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Azithromycin is a single-dose treatment for Chlamydia trachomatis infection, making it a convenient and effective option for patients with STIs.
**Correct Answer: A. Azithromycin**