Final answer:
The treatment for a patient diagnosed with gonorrhea involves a CDC recommended combination regimen of ceftriaxone and, although not diagnosed with chlamydia, often azithromycin to cover possible co-infections and to combat antibiotic resistance. Treating sexual partners is also necessary.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a patient is diagnosed with gonorrhea but not chlamydia, the treatment (Tx) recommended would follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines. Due to antibiotic resistance encountered in treating gonorrhea, the first choice for treatment is often cephalosporins. Specifically, the CDC recommends a combination regimen of ceftriaxone for gonorrhea, and though not co-infected, azithromycin can also be a part of treatment due to the high rate of co-infection with Chlamydia trachomatis (C. trachomatis), ensuring broader coverage. Additionally, it is advisable to treat any sexual partners to avoid reinfection and further spread of the infection.
Untreated gonorrhea can lead to serious complications including pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and, potentially, systemic diseases if the bacteria spread to the blood. Hence, using the CDC recommended antibiotic regimen is critical for curing the infection and preventing these severe consequences.