Chancroid is a sexually-transmitted disease that is not known to be spread any other way.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Chancroid is a bacterial infection caused by the organism Haemophilus ducreyi. It is a disease found primarily in developing and third world countries. Only a few hundred cases a year are diagnosed in the United States. The majority of individuals in the U.S. diagnosed with chancroid have traveled in endemic areas outside the country (areas where the disease is known to occur frequently). Uncircumcised men are at 3 times the risk of circumcised men for contracting chancroid from an infected partner. Chancroid is a risk factor for contracting the HIV virus.
Signs and tests
Diagnosis is made by evaluating the ulcer(s) and presence of swollen lymph nodes, and by obtaining a culture from the base of the ulcers . There are no serological tests for chancroid such as those available for syphilis .
Treatment
The infection is treated with appropriate antibiotics. Effective antibiotics include azithromycin, ceftriaxone, ciprofloxacin, and erythromycin. Large lymph node swellings need drainage either by needle or local surgery.
Expectations (prognosis)
Chancroid can resolve spontaneously. However, some people may experience months of painful ulceration and draining. Antibiotic treatment usually results in rapid clearing of lesions with a minimal to small amount of scarring.
Calling your health care provider
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have symptoms suggestive of chancroid. Also call if you have had sexual contact with a person known to have any STD, or if you have engaged in high-risk sexual practices.
Prevention
Chancroid is a bacterial infection that is spread by sexual contact with other infected individuals. Although abstinence is the only sure prevention, safe sex practices are helpful in preventing the spread of chancroid. Monogamous sexual relations with a known disease-free partner is the safest and most practical "safe sex" method. Condoms provide very good protection from the spread of most sexually transmitted diseases when used properly and consistently.