Chancroid is an infection of the genital skin caused by Haemophilus ducreyi. It typically produces a painful, potentially necrotic genital lesion. Associated symptoms include painful lymphadenopathy and bleeding on contact.

Aetiology

• It is caused by infection with Haemophilus ducreyi
• Given its relatively high incidence in topical areas and Greenland, it is important to inquire in the history about recent travel.

Clinical features

• A painful genital lesion which may bleed on contact
  • The ulcers typically have a sharply defined, ragged, undermined border.
• Associated symptoms include painful lymphadenopathy
• The diagnosis is usually based upon the clinical picture, however the diagnosis can be confirmed using culture or PCR.

Management

The infection is treated using antibiotics (typically Ceftriaxone, Azithromycin or Ciprofloxacin)