Chancroid
Chancroid is a sexually transmitted bacterial infection that causes painful genital sores and swollen lymph nodes.
About chancroid
Chancroid is a sexually transmitted bacterial infection that causes painful genital sores and swollen lymph nodes.
What can cause it?
Chancroid is caused by Haemophilus ducreyi and spreads through sexual contact with an infected sore.
Other infections, including herpes and syphilis, can cause similar ulcers and must be tested for.
What a patient may notice
Symptoms vary from person to person. Possible signs may include:
- One or more painful genital ulcers
- Tender swollen lymph nodes in the groin
- Bleeding or drainage from sores
How clinicians find the cause
Diagnosis uses ulcer appearance, sexual history, and testing to exclude syphilis and herpes. Testing for HIV and other STIs is generally recommended.
Treatment and next steps
- 1
Chancroid is treated with a specific prescribed antibiotic.
- 2
Sex partners need evaluation and possible treatment.
- 3
Large painful groin lymph nodes may require drainage.
Supporting recovery
- Avoid sexual contact until sores are healed and treatment guidance is completed.
- Keep ulcers clean and do not share medicine.
What to expect
Chancroid usually responds quickly to an effective antibiotic and often heals with little scarring. Untreated sores and draining lymph nodes can remain painful for weeks or months. Healing may take longer in people with HIV or when another STI is also present.
Possible complications
- Painful groin lymph-node abscesses that may rupture or require drainage
- Scarring, narrowing of the foreskin, or an abnormal passage involving the urethra
- Coinfection with another STI and increased risk of acquiring or transmitting HIV through open ulcers
When to Contact a Medical Professional
A same-day medical evaluation is recommended, especially when symptoms are severe, worsening, or accompanied by fever, vomiting, weakness, or significant pain.
Severe pain, fever, rapidly spreading swelling, inability to urinate, pregnancy, or signs of serious illness needs prompt care.Get emergency help for severe trouble breathing, new chest pressure, fainting, seizure, sudden weakness on one side, uncontrolled bleeding, blue or gray lips, or a person who is difficult to wake.
Ways to lower risk
- Use condoms consistently, limit exposure to active sores, and obtain STI testing after exposure.
- Prompt partner treatment helps stop spread.
Trusted health information
This CHS patient-education page uses original wording and links to MedlinePlus for additional information.