(203) Awareness of Monkeypox Virus Among International Urology Faculty and Trainees is Low: Implications for Early Recognition and Diagnosis

Abstract

Abstract Introduction The recent international outbreak of Monkeypox virus (Mpox), has raised concerns regarding the recognition and management of this disease among healthcare professionals. The genitourinary presentation of Mpox as variable cutaneous lesions poses a unique challenge for Urologists in its prevention, diagnosis, and management. Objective To assess the understanding and recognition of Mpox among international urologists and urology trainees. Methods A survey relating to the presentation, transmission, and management of Mpox was distributed to urologists and urology trainees 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 rate of respondents who correctly identified a Mpox lesion from a series of cutaneous lesions was 25.8%. A similarly low number of respondents were able to identify the likelihood of having anogenital lesions and oral bleeding on presentation with Mpox at 15.5% and 19.6% respectively. A higher number of respondents accurately noted that diagnosis of Mpox may be made with PCR (79.4%) and that men with multiple male sexual partners are at the highest risk of transmission (72.2%) (Table 1). Conclusions When surveyed regarding the presentation, transmission, and management of Mpox, urologists and urology trainees were generally unable to accurately identify Mpox from a series of cutaneous lesions or the rate at which Mpox may present with anogenital lesions. 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. Continued education within the urology community may be necessary for the appropriate detection of and intervention against Mpox. Disclosure Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Coloplast, Antares Pharma, Clarus Therapeutics.