Chancroid (Soft Chancre): Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of chancroid?

Chancroid is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Haemophilus ducreyi. It primarily affects the genital area and is characterized by painful ulcers or sores. Common symptoms of chancroid include:

1. Painful sores: The first sign of chancroid is often one or more small, painful ulcers or sores on the genitals. These sores can be red, open, and may bleed easily.
2. Swollen lymph nodes: The infection can cause the lymph nodes in the groin area to become swollen and tender.
3. Pain or discomfort: The sores can cause pain or discomfort, especially during urination or sexual intercourse.
4. Discharge: Some people with chancroid may experience a discharge from the genitals.

It’s important to note that not everyone infected with H. ducreyi will develop symptoms. Additionally, the symptoms of chancroid can be similar to those of other STIs, so it’s important to seek medical attention for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment if you experience any of these symptoms.

What are the causes of chancroid?

Chancroid is caused by infection with the bacterium Haemophilus ducreyi. The bacterium is spread through sexual contact with an infected person, including vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Chancroid is more common in areas with poor hygiene and limited access to healthcare. Certain factors can increase the risk of contracting chancroid, including:

1. Multiple sexual partners: Having unprotected sex with multiple partners increases the risk of exposure to H. ducreyi and other STIs.
2. History of other STIs: People who have had other STIs, such as herpes or syphilis, may be at higher risk of contracting chancroid.
3. Poor hygiene: Poor genital hygiene can increase the risk of developing chancroid.
4. Immunocompromised state: People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or undergoing chemotherapy, may be more susceptible to chancroid.
5. Living in or traveling to endemic areas: Chancroid is more common in certain parts of the world, such as parts of Africa and Asia, where it is endemic. Traveling to these areas can increase the risk of exposure.

It’s important to practice safe sex and get regular STI screenings if you are sexually active, especially if you have multiple partners or engage in high-risk sexual behaviors.

What is the treatment for chancroid?

Chancroid is typically treated with antibiotics to clear the infection and reduce symptoms. The most commonly prescribed antibiotics for chancroid are azithromycin and ceftriaxone. Other antibiotics, such as erythromycin or ciprofloxacin, may be used if azithromycin and ceftriaxone are not suitable.

In addition to antibiotics, it’s important to practice good hygiene, avoid sexual contact until the sores have healed, and inform sexual partners so they can also be tested and treated if necessary.

If left untreated, chancroid can lead to complications such as skin damage, scarring, and an increased risk of contracting HIV. It’s important to seek medical attention if you suspect you have chancroid or have been exposed to someone with the infection.