Chancroid

Overview

Chancroid is a sexually transmitted infection caused by a bacterium called Haemophilus ducreyi. It produces painful open sores (ulcers) on the genitals and often causes tender, swollen lymph nodes in the groin.

Chancroid is uncommon in many high-income countries but occurs more often in some other regions. It spreads through sexual contact, and the open sores it causes can make it easier to acquire or pass on other infections, including HIV. The infection is treatable with antibiotics, and treating recent sexual partners helps stop its spread.

Symptoms

Symptoms usually begin within about a week of exposure:

• One or more painful sores on the genitals that start as a tender bump and become an open ulcer
• Ulcers with soft, ragged edges that may bleed or ooze
• Painful, swollen lymph nodes in the groin, which can become a pus-filled lump
• Pain during sex or urination if sores are near these areas

In men, sores are often on the penis; in women, they may be on the vulva or near the vaginal opening and can be less noticeable.

Causes

Chancroid is caused by the bacterium Haemophilus ducreyi, which spreads through:

• Sexual contact with an infected person, when the bacteria enter through small breaks in the skin or mucous membranes.
• Contact with the open sores, which contain the bacteria.

It is not spread through casual contact, food, or water.

Risk Factors

• Unprotected sexual contact
• Multiple sexual partners
• Living in or traveling to regions where chancroid is more common
• Other sexually transmitted infections

Diagnosis

A doctor diagnoses chancroid by examining the sores and lymph nodes and considering the typical pattern of painful ulcers with swollen groin glands. Because several infections cause genital sores, testing is important:

• Laboratory testing of a sample from the sore where available.
• Tests to rule out other causes such as syphilis and genital herpes.
• Screening for other STIs, including HIV.

Treatment

Chancroid is treated with antibiotics, which usually clear the infection:

• Antibiotics: A course prescribed by a doctor; sores typically begin to improve within days.
• Draining swollen glands: Large, pus-filled lymph nodes may need to be drained by a healthcare professional.
• Treating partners: Recent sexual partners should be examined and treated to prevent reinfection and spread.
• Avoiding sex until treatment is complete and sores have healed.

Follow-up is important to confirm healing, and testing for other STIs is recommended.

Prevention

• Use condoms correctly during sexual activity
• Limit the number of sexual partners and discuss STI testing with partners
• Avoid sexual contact with anyone who has genital sores
• Seek prompt testing and treatment if you or a partner develops genital ulcers

When to See a Doctor

See a doctor promptly if you develop a painful genital sore or a tender, swollen lump in the groin, especially after a new sexual contact. Many infections can cause genital ulcers, so an accurate diagnosis is important. Prompt treatment relieves symptoms, prevents spread, and lowers the risk of complications, including acquiring other infections such as HIV.

Related Topics

Frequently Asked Questions

References

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Chancroid.
2. MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine. Chancroid.
3. World Health Organization (WHO). Sexually transmitted infections.