Oral manifestations of sexually transmitted infections.

It's difficult to establish the real risks associated with all forms of oral sex and the contribution they may make to the overall number of newly diagnosed cases of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This article reviews the literature on the role of oral sex in the transmission of STIs and the corresponding clinical presentations. Oral sex is becoming a common sexual practice between both heterosexual and homosexual couples because it is seen as a safer alternative to penetrative sex and a safer challenge to an individual's hidden identity. Because of the frequency with which oral sex occurs, and the rarity with which it is protected, oral sex may raise justified alarming attention to underestimated orally acquired STIs.