Chancroid is a treatable bacterial infection. It is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that primarily spreads through sexual contact. While less common in many developed countries, it remains a public health concern in certain global regions. Early recognition and appropriate medical care are important for effective management and prevention.
What is Cancroid?
Chancroid is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Haemophilus ducreyi. This bacterium typically enters the body through microscopic tears or abrasions in the skin during sexual activity. Chancroid is highly contagious, spreading through direct skin-to-skin contact with open sores or pus from lesions.
The infection is primarily transmitted through vaginal, oral, or anal sexual contact. While rare in countries like the U.S. and Europe, it is more prevalent in certain areas of the Caribbean, Africa, and Southwest Asia. In these regions, it can be a significant public health concern.
Identifying the Manifestations
The initial sign of chancroid appears as a small, tender, raised bump on the genitals within three to seven days after exposure. This bump quickly evolves into a painful, open sore or ulcer within about a day. These ulcers have characteristic ragged, soft edges, a base that may be covered with gray or yellowish-gray material, and bleed easily if disturbed.
Ulcer size varies, ranging from 1/8 inch to 2 inches in diameter. In men, ulcers commonly appear on the foreskin, head, shaft, or opening of the penis, and the scrotum. For women, typical locations include the outer and inner vaginal lips, the area between the anus and vagina, and inner thighs. Swollen and painful lymph nodes in the groin, often on one side, occur in about half of those infected. These swollen nodes can become large, hard lumps called buboes, which may rupture and drain pus if left untreated.
Medical Intervention and Management
Diagnosing chancroid involves a physical examination and laboratory tests, as its symptoms can resemble other sexually transmitted infections like herpes or syphilis. Healthcare providers examine the genital ulcers and check for swollen lymph nodes. Laboratory confirmation involves culturing the Haemophilus ducreyi bacterium from a sample of fluid or pus from the ulcer, though this can be challenging. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests, which detect bacterial DNA, are also used in some laboratories.
Treatment for chancroid involves antibiotics. Common antibiotic regimens include a single oral dose of azithromycin or a single intramuscular injection of ceftriaxone. Other effective options include oral ciprofloxacin for three days or oral erythromycin for seven days. Early diagnosis and treatment prevent complications, like draining abscesses from swollen lymph nodes, and reduce the risk of further transmission. If buboes become large or painful, needle aspiration or surgical drainage may be necessary to relieve discomfort, even after antibiotic treatment begins.
Proactive Measures and Recovery
Preventing chancroid involves practicing safer sex and avoiding contact with visible sores. Consistent and correct use of condoms during oral, vaginal, or anal sex can significantly reduce the risk of transmission. Avoiding sexual contact with individuals who have visible genital sores is also a key preventive measure. Regular testing for sexually transmitted infections, especially before engaging in sexual activity with a new partner, helps in early detection and prevention of spread.
Notifying sexual partners of a chancroid diagnosis is important so they can be examined and treated, even if they do not show symptoms. This step helps to break the chain of transmission and prevent re-infection. With appropriate and timely antibiotic treatment, chancroid is curable. Most individuals experience a full recovery, with symptoms improving within days and ulcers healing completely, often without long-term complications or scarring.