A 25-year-old female presents with painless vaginal sores and swollen lymph nodes in the groin. She reports that she noticed the sores about two weeks after having unprotected sex. What might be the cause, and what are the next steps?
The patient's symptoms of painless sores and swollen lymph nodes after unprotected sex suggest a diagnosis of primary syphilis. However, genital herpes and chancroid could also cause similar symptoms. A physical examination and swab from the sores for dark-field microscopy or PCR testing can confirm syphilis. If the diagnosis is confirmed, she should be treated with penicillin, and any sexual partners should be informed and tested.