Sexually transmitted enteric infections in men who have sex with men

SUMMARY Sexual transmission of enteric infections (STEIs) among men who have sex with men (MSM) has been reported since the 1960s and is increasingly recognized since the widespread adoption of multiplex molecular diagnostics. However, the overall burden of sexually transmitted enteric infections has been difficult to ascertain, as the public health response to these infections and identification of transmission networks fall between the traditional groupings of sexually transmitted and foodborne diseases. The global emergence of extensively drug-resistant Shigella and Campylobacter infections among MSM and the potential for cross-over between different at-risk populations underscores the importance of timely diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and the need to consider community-level education and testing. Moreover, the possible impact of pre- and post-exposure prophylaxis for HIV and sexually transmitted infections on STEI is presently uncertain. This review examines our evolving understanding of STEI, discusses specific pathogens of urgent importance, and prioritizes areas for further study.