(228) GLARING LACK OF AWARENESS OF MPOX VIRUS AMONG INTERNATIONAL UROLOGY FACULTY AND TRAINEES DURING THE 23RD SEXUAL MEDICINE SOCIETY OF NORTH AMERICA (SMSNA)/23RD INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR SEXUAL MEDICINE (ISSM) JOINT SUMMIT: IMPLICATIONS FOR EARLY RECOGNITION
Authors: Hammad M , Miller J , Amini E , Magill R , Fattash A , Yazar R , Sanford D , Chawareb E , Jenkins L , Lumbiganon S , Barham D , Yafi F 
Published: December 2024

Introduction

The recent international outbreak of Monkeypox (Mpox) virus, a zoonotic orthopox virus, has raised concerns regarding the recognition and management of this disease among healthcare professionals. The clinical presentation of Mpox, characterized by a distinctive rash and variable cutaneous lesions, poses diagnostic challenges for clinicians, particularly in the urology field. Missed diagnoses and incorrect treatment have been reported, leading to worsening symptoms. Hence, it is crucial for urologists to be well-informed about the presentation, prevention, and treatment of Mpox.

Objective

This study aims to assess the understanding and recognition of Mpox among urologists and urology trainees, specifically regarding its presentation, prevention, and treatment.

Methods

A survey focusing on key facts about Mpox was distributed to international sexual medicine experts during the joint 23rd Sexual Medicine Society of North America (SMSNA)/23rd International Society for Sexual Medicine (ISSM) conference.

Results

Out of 960 attendees, 97 (10.1%) responded to the survey. The findings revealed significant gaps in knowledge and awareness of Mpox. Specifically, 39.2% of respondents were unaware of the percentage of patients with anogenital lesions, while only 15.5% correctly identified that over 70% of affected individuals exhibit such lesions. Moreover, 29.9% acknowledged that these lesions can be more painful than anticipated, contrasting with 24.7% who were unsure about the level of pain experienced. In terms of pain management, 51.5% were aware that opioids can be used for relief, while 38.1% were unfamiliar with associated symptoms. However, the majority demonstrated knowledge regarding transmission methods and the most susceptible patient demographic. When it came to diagnostic methods, 79.4% reported utilizing PCR, 42.3% performed skin biopsies, and 30.9% relied on visual inspection, while 15.5% were unsure about appropriate diagnostic approaches. Notably, only 25.8% correctly identified a picture of Mpox lesions when presented with four options resembling sexually transmitted lesions on the genitalia. This highlights the challenge of relying solely on visual inspection to differentiate Mpox from other similar lesions even among sexual medicine experts.

Conclusions

The findings of this study underscore a significant lack of awareness and understanding of Mpox among international urology faculty and trainees. The limited recognition of its presentation, appropriate diagnostic methods, and distinguishing features from sexually transmitted lesions raises concerns about potential missed diagnoses and delayed treatment. To ensure early recognition and appropriate management of Mpox cases, it is imperative to enhance education and awareness within the urology community. Heightened awareness and early detection are essential for prompt intervention and preventing further transmission of Mpox in the healthcare setting.

Disclosure

Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Coloplast, Cynosure, Antares Pharma, Clarus Pharmaceuticals, Acerus Pharma.