Showing papers in "Adolescent medicine (Philadelphia) in 1990"

The Epidemiology and Control of Sexually Transmitted Diseases in Adolescents.

Abstract: Teenagers are at higher risk for sexually transmitted infection than other age groups for a variety of behavioral, biological, and psychosocial reasons. This article discusses the importance and trends of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in teenagers, factors affecting the trends in adolescent STDs, implications of STDs for the future health of adolescents, and implications for activities directed at control of STDs in this high-risk group.

The Theoretical Concept of At-Risk Adolescents.

Abstract: The opening article of this issue defines and reviews the concept of risk-taking during adolescence and presents a theoretical model for understanding the mechanisms for the onset and maintenance of risk behaviors. The individual behaviors (sexual behavior, substance use, and vehicle use) are often interrelated and the mechanisms for onset may be similar.

Adolescent Health: Current Trends and Critical Issues.

Abstract: The demography and predominant mortalities and morbidities of adolescents are reviewed, including motor vehicle accidents, suicide, homicide and violent crime, pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, alcohol and drug use, tobacco use, and runaway and homeless youth. Then various approaches to intervention and health promotion are covered.

Television and Adolescents: Sex, Drugs, Rock 'n' Roll.

Abstract: Television and other media represent an important and widely unrecognized influence on adolescent behavior in American society. This article is a review of the major media to which teenagers are heavily exposed-television, movies, radio, print media, and pornography. The potential concerns of practitioners and parents and society as a whole are emphasized and some solutions suggested.

Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) in Adolescents.

Abstract: This chapter reviews the epidemiology of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection among adolescents, presents a theoretical model for defining risk, and reviews factors that put adolescents at risk for HIV infection. Issues pertaining to risk assessment, HIV counseling and testing, and approaches to care for HIV-infected teens are discussed. Finally, practical strategies for HIV prevention and risk reduction are provided.

Prevention of Substance Abuse in Children and Adolescents.

Abstract: Although a recent national survey has shown an encouraging decrease in the use of drugs by adolescents, the problem remains large and continues. In this article substance abuse is defined and then theories of prevention and causation are discussed. Prevention programs that have been in use in the past are reviewed and current trends in preventive efforts described.

Psychosocial, Behavioral, and Educational Factors in Preventing Sexually Transmitted Diseases.

Abstract: The risk of exposure to sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) among adolescents is determined by sociodemographic, environmental, psychosocial, behavioral, and biologic factors. These factors are complex, interrelated, and often poorly understood by health professionals caring for adolescents. This chapter aims to (1) describe specific risk factors associated with acquisition and transmission of STDs (with particular focus on behavioral risk factors); (2) discuss briefly various determinants and correlates of STD risk factors; and (3) propose strategies for education and prevention of STDs among teenagers.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease in Adolescent Females.

Abstract: The most important medical and economic complication of sexually transmitted disease presently for young women is the development of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and its associated sequelae of ectopic pregnancy and infertility. This chapter discusses the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment, and sequelae of PID, with emphasis on the adolescent female.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases in Homosexual Youth.

Abstract: The prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in homosexual populations is due to a complex interrelationship of host and pathogen factors. This chapter explores the risk factors, epidemiology, microbiology, clinical aspects, and prevention of STDs in homosexual youth. This discussion focuses on male adolescents, because STDs are uncommon among exclusively homosexual women.

The Gang Phenomenon and the American Teenager.

Abstract: The authors review basic concepts of current teenage gangs in America: (1) normal adolescent behavior as a basis for understanding gang behavior, (2) definition and location of gangs, (3) comparison of gangs with other adolescent peer groups, (4) history of the gang movement with a description of modern gang structure, (5) research of gang formation with demographic comparisons, and (6) female gangs. Current theories on potential solutions to the problem are presented, with emphasis on dealing with society's role in the formation of modern teenage gangs.

Acne Vulgaris: Its Pathogenesis and Management.

Abstract: The prognosis for the thousands of young people who seek treatment for acne is growing considerably brighter. Elimination of old misconceptions, together with many promising and proven new medications, has done much to improve the management of acne. The author emphasizes that therapy must be individualized, with appropriate variations and modifications as the severity of the disorder fluctuates.

Adolescent Depression and Suicide.

Abstract: The clinical syndrome of depression and the problem of suicidal behavior do not usually coincide in adolescents, and consequently the author reviews each individually. Both are the subject of much current research, and new findings suggest that management of both problems will incorporate more and more biological information in the coming years. Language: en

Genital Human Papillomavirus Infections.

Abstract: The author describes the clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment of human papillomavirus (HPV) infections. The association of HPV with anogenital cancer is also discussed.

Family Violence and Adolescents

Abstract: This article examines adolescent involvement in violent family relations, both as victims and perpetrators. The author points out that adolescents have been the missing persons in the family violence literature and explains their role in various circumstances of violence and abuse, concluding with steps for treatment and prevention of this problem.

Chlamydia trachomatis Infections in Adolescents.

Abstract: C. trachomatis is the most common bacterial cause of sexually transmitted diseases in the U.S. and represents a major health threat to sexually active adolescents. This chapter addresses special features involving the occurrence, consequences, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of chlamydial genital infections.

Injuries: The Leading Cause of Morbidity and Mortality in Adolescents.

Abstract: Injuries are the major health problem of adolescents, and current work in this area incorporates the application of epidemiologic research principles to the problem of adolescent injuries, including behavioral approaches in intervention. The author reviews the epidemiology of the problem, discusses the environments where injuries occur, and suggests areas for future improvement in research methodologies.

Clinical Assessment and Management of Health Risk Behaviors in Adolescents.

Abstract: Risk-taking behavior in adolescents has a clear development basis and is augmented by a combination of social and cultural factors. This paper presents an approach to clinical assessment and management of risk-taking behavior and emphasizes the critical responsibility of the health professional in taking appropriate steps to protect adolescents against adverse consequences.

Office Approach to Urethritis, Vaginitis, and Cervicitis in Adolescents.

Abstract: Urethritis, cystitis, vulvovaginitis, and cervicitis in females, and urethritis in males, are among the most common genitourinary tract syndromes. A number of organisms may cause each of these entities, and most of these organisms may cause more than one clinical syndrome. Similarly, several syndromes are associated with common presenting symptoms. This article discusses evaluation, diagnosis, and management of each of these syndromes by the practitioner in an office setting.

Genital Herpes in Adolescents and Young Adults.

Abstract: The acquisition of genital herpes simplex virus (HSV) is still a significant risk to sexually active individuals. This chapter addresses the epidemiology and natural history of genital herpes, and new therapies that have changed the natural course of events following infection. The possibility of an HSV vaccine is also discussed.

Are Today's Adolescents Growing Up Too Fast?

Abstract: The author explains three approaches to the question addressed in the title of this article: (1) the biological/evolutionary perspective, (2) the sociological/historical perspective, and (3) the psychological perspective. His aim is to review the answers that each of these approaches provides and to arrive at a more general answer that takes all three approaches into account.

Psoriasis in Adolescents.

Abstract: Psoriasis is a chronic condition that is difficult to treat. Clinical presentation, diagnosis, and therapeutic approach to the adolescent patient are addressed. Therapy requires extensive patient education, emotional support, and flexibility, bearing in mind that the young psoriatic patient may require treatment over a lifetime.

Endocrine Aspects of Adolescent Acne.

Abstract: Hormonal influences on the pathogenesis of acne, endocrine control of sebaceous glands, endocrine abnormalities, and endocrine therapy for acne are discussed.

Bacterial Skin Infections in Adolescents.

Abstract: This article reviews the salient features of diagnosis and treatment of the more common bacterial infections in adolescents, including impetigo contagiosa, bullous impetigo, cellulitis and erysipelas, folliculitis, furunculosis and carbunculosis, blistering distal dactylitis, toxic shock syndrome, and dog and cat bites.

Diagnosis and Management of Disorders of the Scalp and Hair in Adolescents.

Abstract: A practical approach is offered to the diagnosis and management of the more common hair and scalp problems in adolescents, including seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, tinea capitis, and others.

Sunburn and Sun Reactions.

Abstract: Most teenagers believe that it is both healthy and fashionable to have a glowing suntan. However, the long-term hazardous effects of sun exposure have been well documented, and are the focus of this chapter. Discussion also encompasses sun reactions, the tanning response, recommended sunscreen protection factors, and abnormal responses to sun.

Gonococcal Infections in Adolescents.

Abstract: Gonorrhea is the most frequently reported communicable disease in the United States. This chapter elucidates the clinical features of gonococcal infections and discusses current treatment guideline. Several complications of gonorrhea, including pelvic inflammatory disease and disseminated gonococcal infection, are also described.

Tinea Infections in Adolescents.

Abstract: Superficial fungal and yeast infections of the skin are common during adolescence. This article describes the causes, clinical manifestations, differential diagnosis, and treatment of four infections that increase in frequency during adolescence: tinea versicolor, tinea pedis, fungal nail infections, and tinea cruris.

Preventing Adolescent Pregnancy.

Abstract: The problem of high rates of unintended adolescent pregnancy in the United States continues unchecked. The author discusses efforts to prevent adolescent pregnancy and to ameliorate its effects, including sex education, community outreach and clinical services, and the development of innovative local programs. Other approaches include counseling, use of social learning theory, use of developmental theory, skills building, and self-concept development.

Isotretinoin (Accutane) Therapy for Acne in Adolescents.

Abstract: The introduction of 13-cis-retinoic acid (isotretinoin, Accutane) represents a major advance in the treatment of severe, disfiguring, cystic acne. This article addresses the course of treatment, teratogenicity, laboratory evaluation, side effects, and management of complications.