Chancroid - Symptoms & Treatment

Chancroid is an infection that is caused by the bacteria Haemophilus ducreyi. It transmitted through sexual contact.. Chancroid is associated with a number of unpleasant side effects: primarily the development of painful, pus-filled ulcers in the genital region.. Chancroid is contagious as long as the infected person has any open sores. The open sores contain bacteria and any contact with these sores can result in infection. Chancroid is more common in areas of low socioeconomic status such as Africa and Asia. It has also been found to be more common in areas where the prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is high (>8%). Other risk factors are low education level, risky sexual behavior, other sexually transmitted diseases and noncircumcision. Chancroid size can vary from 1-2 millimeters to several centimeters but is usually 1-2 centimeters in diameter.

Chancroid has been shown to be a major cofactor in the transmission of HIV-1 infection. This relationship has been especially significant in the heterosexual spread of HIV in Africa. In women the most common location for ulcers is the labia majora . "Kissing ulcers" may develop. These are ulcers that occur on opposing surfaces of the labia. Other areas such as the labia minora , perineal area, and inner thighs may also be involved. The most common symptoms in women are pain with urination and pain with intercourse. Chancroid has been associated with increased risk for developing other STDs, including chlamydia , gonorrhea , and HIV. The bacteria are more likely to invade the sexual organs at the point of a pre-existing injury, such as a small cut or scratch. The likelihood of transmission is greater if a person is very active sexually and does not practice personal hygiene.

Causes of Chancroid

Common causes of Chancroid

Vaginal intercourse.
Oral sex.
Anal sex.
Mutual masturbation.
Gram-negative bacillus.

Symptoms of Chancroid

Common Symptoms of Chancroid

Filled with pus.
Inflamed.
Painful.
Ruptured.
Syphilis.
Treponema pallidum.

Treatment of Chancroid

Common Treatment of Chancroid

Antibiotics treated including is azithromycin, ceftriaxone, ciprofloxacin, and erythromycin. Large lymph node swellings need drainage either by needle or local surgery.
Limit the number of your sex partners.
Use a condom.
Carefully wash the genitals after sexual relations.
If you think you are infected, avoid any sexual contact and visit your local STD clinic, a hospital or your doctor. Notify all sexual contacts immediately so they can obtain examination and treatment.

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