Description

Chancroid (“shan-kroid”) is a bacterial infection of Haemophilus Ducreyi. Chancroid lesions may be difficult to distinguish from ulcers caused by genital herpes or syphilis and therefore a physician must diagnose the infection by excluding other diseases with similar symptoms.

Symptoms

Within a week after exposure the infection will begin with the appearance of painful open sores on the genitals, sometimes accompanied by swollen, tender lymph nodes in the groin. In women, the symptoms are often less noticeable and may be limited to painful urination, painful defecation, painful intercourse, rectal bleeding, or vaginal discharge.

Transmission

Chancroid is a STD and is thus spread through sexual touching and intercourse. If you or your partner has any sort of open sore or lesion on the genitals, do not touch the ulcer. The afflicted individual must see a physician immediately.

Treatment

People with chancroids can be treated effectively with an appropriate antibiotic. See your doctor immediately if you require treatment or believe you may be afflicted with an STD.