Chancroid is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by Haemophilus ducreyi. It leads to the development of painful genital ulcers and swollen lymph nodes in the groin. Although less common than other STIs, chancroid can increase the risk of HIV transmission if left untreated.
Causes & How Chancroid Develops
Chancroid spreads through sexual contact with an infected individual, particularly when there are skin breaks or open sores. The Haemophilus ducreyi bacteria infect the genital area, leading to the formation of painful ulcers.
Common risk factors include:
- Unprotected sex, especially with multiple partners.
- Traveling to regions where chancroid is more common.
- Engaging in high-risk sexual behavior.
- Having other STIs, which can increase susceptibility to infection.
Common Symptoms of Chancroid
Symptoms of chancroid typically appear 3 to 10 days after exposure and may include:
- Painful, soft ulcers on the genitals.
- Irregularly shaped ulcers with a gray or yellowish base.
- Swollen lymph nodes in the groin (bubo formation).
- Pain during urination or sexual activity.
- Pus-like discharge from the ulcers.
The ulcers may grow and merge, causing severe discomfort if left untreated.
How Chancroid is Diagnosed
Chancroid is diagnosed through clinical symptoms and laboratory tests. Common diagnostic methods include:
- Physical examination, to identify characteristic ulcers.
- Bacterial culture, from ulcer swabs to detect Haemophilus ducreyi.
- Excluding other STIs, such as syphilis and herpes, which cause similar symptoms.
Chancroid Treatments & Management
Chancroid requires prompt medical treatment to heal ulcers and prevent complications. Common approaches include:
- Medical treatments, to eliminate Haemophilus ducreyi bacteria.
- Cleaning and dressing ulcers, to promote healing.
- Partner notification and testing, to prevent reinfection.
Supportive care may also include:
- Keeping the genital area clean and dry.
- Avoiding sexual activity until ulcers heal.
- Practicing good hygiene, to reduce irritation and reinfection risk.
Possible Complications of Chancroid
If untreated, chancroid can lead to severe complications, including:
- Scarring and permanent tissue damage in the genital area.
- Formation of large, pus-filled abscesses (buboes) in the groin.
- Increased risk of HIV transmission, due to open sores.
- Chronic ulceration, leading to long-term discomfort.
How to Prevent Chancroid
Preventing chancroid involves safe sexual practices and early treatment. Key preventive measures include:
- Using condoms or dental dams, to reduce exposure risk.
- Getting tested regularly for STIs, especially if sexually active with multiple partners.
- Avoiding sexual contact with individuals who have visible genital sores.
- Seeking early treatment, to prevent complications and further transmission.
Trivia About Chancroid
- Chancroid was once a major cause of genital ulcers worldwide, but cases have declined due to better STI screening and treatment.
- Unlike syphilis ulcers, chancroid ulcers are painful, which helps distinguish between the two infections.
- Chancroid is more common in tropical and developing regions, where STI control measures may be limited.
- Men are more likely than women to experience noticeable chancroid symptoms, while women may have mild or unrecognized infections.
- The term “chancroid” comes from the French word “chancre,” meaning ulcer.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. It is intended to share general knowledge about chancroid in an easy-to-understand way. If you have health concerns, consult a qualified medical professional for guidance.