Complete Information on Chancroid

Chancroid is a common sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by infection with the Gram negative bacterium Haemophilus ducreyi, a fastidious organism primarily located in the extra cellular spaces. Chancroid is rarely reported in the United States, but regional outbreaks and some endemic transmission occur, principally among migrant farm workers and poor inner city residents. Chancroid can be transmitted in two ways: sexually through skin-to-skin contact with open sore or sores; and non-sexually if a pus-like fluid from the ulcer is in contact with other areas of the body.

The disease is found mostly in third world and developing nations. Occurrences in the United States ranges from fair to rare and most people diagnosed with such have traveled to countries where the disease has occurred frequently. Chancroid is a risk factor for contracting HIV, due to their ecological association or shared risk of exposure, and biologically facilitated transmission of one infection by the other. The first sign of infection is usually the appearance of one or more sores or raised bumps on the genital organs.

The first chancroid symptoms typically seem within two and seven days of infection; rarely, symptoms can take up to a month to manifest. Those infected typically notice the appearance of raised, red bumps on the genital region. In men, these bumps usually develop on the penis or perinanal region. In women, bumps generally appear on the labia, cervix, vagina, or rectum. In 50% of chancroid infections, the infection also presents itself in the lymph glands in the genital region. These glands become hard and swollen, and may fill with pus. Chancroid can be treated with antibiotics.

Successful treatment cures the infection, resolves symptoms and prevents transmission to others. Treatment regimens may involve azithromycin, ceftriaxone, ciprofloxacin (not recommended for pregnant or nursing females, or people younger than 18 years) and erythromycin base. Large ulcers may require two weeks or longer to heal. In severe cases, scarring may result. Chancroid can be also prevented. If you do get chancroid, avoid contact with the infected area to prevent chance of spreading the infection to other parts of the body. Use a condom every time you have sex and limit your number of sexual partners.