A sexually transmitted infection (STI), chancroid is a bacterial infection causing painful sores on the genitals. It is more common in some countries than others. This blog post discusses what causes chancroid, how to recognize its symptoms, how to diagnose it, how to treat it, and how to prevent it.
A bacterium called Haemophilus ducreyi causes chancroid. This bacterium attacks the skin and mucous membranes in the genital area and creates open sores. While sexual contact occurs, the ulcers may bleed or produce contagious fluids that spread the infection to others. In addition to skin-to-skin contact, chancroid can also be spread by touching a sore and then touching another part of the body.
The symptoms of chancroid usually appear within 4 to 10 days after exposure to the bacterium. The most common symptom is one or more ulcers on the genitals or anus. The ulcers can vary in size and shape, but they typically have the following characteristics:
They have a soft center that is gray to yellowish-gray in color.
They have sharp edges that are raised and red.
They are very painful, especially during urination, bowel movements, or sexual intercourse.
Other symptoms of chancroid may include:
Swelling and tenderness of the lymph nodes in the groin, which may form abscesses that break through the skin and drain pus.
Fever, chills, headache, and malaise (feeling unwell).
There is no blood test for chancroid, so a doctor will examine the ulcers and lymph nodes in the groin. A sample of fluid from the ulcer may also be sent to a laboratory for testing.
In order to rule out other infections that cause genital ulcers, such as syphilis, herpes, or lymphogranuloma venereum, the doctor may also test for chancroid.
The ulcers should heal within two weeks of beginning the treatment with antibiotics, such as ceftriaxone, azithromycin, or ciprofloxacin, which are usually given as a single dose or for a few days. If the ulcers are large or complicated by abscesses, they may require surgical drainage and take longer to heal.
It is important to complete the course of antibiotics as prescribed by the doctor and to avoid sexual contact until the ulcers are completely healed. As a result, the infection cannot spread to others or recur. Patients may also be advised to inform their sexual partners of their chancroid status and to encourage them to get tested and treated.
When you have oral, vaginal, or anal sex, use condoms or dental dams. The best way to prevent chancroid is to practice safe sex. You should also limit the number of sexual partners you have and avoid sex with people with genital ulcers or other signs of STIs. If you think you have been exposed to chancroid or any other STI, get tested and treated as soon as possible.
When left untreated, chancroid can cause pain, discomfort, and complications, but can be cured and prevented with proper diagnosis and treatment. Consult your doctor or health care provider if you have any questions or concerns about chancroid or your sexual health.
