Summary about Disease
Chancroid is a bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI) characterized by painful ulcers, typically on the genitals. It is more common in developing countries and is a risk factor for HIV transmission. Prompt diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics are essential to prevent complications and spread.
Symptoms
A small, painful bump on the genitals (penis, vulva, or anus).
The bump turns into an open sore (ulcer) within a day or two.
Ulcers are typically soft, with ragged edges and a base covered with a grayish or yellowish discharge.
Painful swelling of the lymph nodes in the groin (buboes), often on one side only. The buboes may eventually burst.
Painful urination or intercourse.
Causes
Chancroid is caused by the bacterium Haemophilus ducreyi. It is almost exclusively transmitted through direct sexual contact with an infected person.
Medicine Used
Antibiotics are the primary treatment for chancroid. Effective medications include:
Azithromycin (single dose)
Ceftriaxone (single dose injection)
Ciprofloxacin (oral, multiple doses)
Erythromycin (oral, multiple doses)
Is Communicable
? Yes, chancroid is highly communicable through direct contact with the ulcers. It is considered a sexually transmitted infection.
Precautions
Abstain from sexual activity until both you and your partner(s) have completed treatment and the ulcers have completely healed.
Use condoms correctly and consistently during sexual activity.
Avoid sexual contact with individuals who have genital sores or other STI symptoms.
Inform your sexual partner(s) if you are diagnosed with chancroid so they can be tested and treated.
Practice good hygiene, including washing hands thoroughly after touching your genitals.
How long does an outbreak last?
Without treatment, chancroid ulcers can persist for weeks or months. With appropriate antibiotic treatment, ulcers typically begin to heal within a few days, and complete healing occurs within two weeks. Larger ulcers may take longer to heal.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves:
Physical examination of the genital ulcers.
Ruling out other causes of genital ulcers (e.g., syphilis, herpes).
Laboratory testing:
Culture of the ulcer: this is the gold standard but can be difficult to perform.
PCR (polymerase chain reaction) tests: becoming more common and sensitive.
Timeline of Symptoms
Incubation period: 3-7 days after exposure to Haemophilus ducreyi*.
Initial lesion: A small, painful papule (bump) appears on the genitals.
Ulcer formation: The papule quickly turns into an open ulcer within 1-2 days.
Lymph node involvement: Painful swelling of the groin lymph nodes (buboes) may develop within 1-2 weeks.
Without treatment: Ulcers persist and may spread. Buboes may rupture.
Important Considerations
Chancroid increases the risk of acquiring and transmitting HIV.
Coinfection with other STIs is common. Testing for other STIs, such as syphilis, herpes, and HIV, is recommended.
Proper wound care is important to prevent secondary bacterial infections.
Follow-up with a healthcare provider is essential to ensure that the infection has cleared and to monitor for any complications.
Partners need to be treated to prevent reinfection.