CHANCROID

Chancroid is a bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Haemophilus ducreyi. The infection is spread through sexual contact, and is commonly found in developing countries and high risk sexual groups like prostitutes.
Symptoms typically begin 5-7 days after exposure. Men may notice a small red bump on the genitals and it may be found on either the scrotum or penis. This bump usually develops into an open sore or ulcer within a few days. Women often develop several red bumps on the labia or on the thighs. Once the bumps develop into an ulcer a painful burning sensation may be present during urination and sexual intercourse. The ulcers often bleed easily if they are touched or bumped. Swelling in the groin may also be present. The lymph nodes in the groin may also enlarge and can break through the skin and form draining abscesses.
Diagnosis is made by exam and can be confirmed by culturing the drainage from the ulcers and abscesses. Treatment is antibiotic therapy and can be given as azithromycin 1 g orally in a single dose or 1 g of ceftriaxone given intramuscularly, ciprofloxacin 500 mg orally twice daily for three days or oral erythromycin for seven days. Lymph abscesses may requires surgical irrigation and debridement. Recently erythromycin resistance has been noted. Treatment is often more complicated in patients with HIV co-infection and having chancroid increases the risk of HIV transmission.
The best way to prevent this infection is to use safe sexual practices, like condoms during intercourse and limiting sexual intercourse to a single monogamous partner. Avoid other high risk activities like drug abuse and alcohol abuse.