Chancroid

Abstract

Chancroid, caused by Haemophilus ducreyi, is a sexually transmitted genital ulcerative condition associated with inguinal bubo formation. The relative prevalence of chancroid has dramatically declined based on surveillance findings in those few endemic settings where the appropriate diagnostic tools exist; however, laboratory-based diagnostics are lacking to assist clinical management and support etiological surveillance in most parts of the world. Recent yaws surveys within the Western Pacific region indicate that H. ducreyi has re-emerged as a frequent cause of chronic skin ulceration. Although there have been no antimicrobial susceptibility studies for three decades, it is assumed that a cure remains possible with extended-spectrum cephalosporins, macrolides, or fluoroquinolones. HIV-1-infected patients require careful follow-up due to reports of treatment failure with single dose regimens. Buboes may need additional treatment with either aspiration or excision and drainage.

Keywords: Hemophilus ducreyi; antibiotic therapy; antimicrobial resistance; bubo; chancroid; diagnostic testing; genital ulceration; partner notification; prevention.