What is it?
Chancroid is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacteria Hemophilus ducreyi. It is an extremely uncommon STD in Canada.
What are the symptoms?
It causes an ulcer (open sore) or a number of ulcers on the site of entry into the body (usually the genitals) and swelling of the lymph glands in that area (usually at the top of the legs). The ulcer(s) are often painful, but sometimes can be painless especially in women. The infected person may not notice them. The period from the time of contact until lesions or sores develop is usually between 3 to 5 days.
What's the test like?
The bacteria is extremely hard to detect in a lab test. Treatment is most commonly given to those who have traveled to, or lived in a country, in particular a tropical country, where the disease is common. Tests for syphilis and herpes may also have been done and come back negative.
What is the treatment?
It is treatable with antibiotics. If the lymph glands become too swollen, a health care provider may need to drain the fluid from them. Partner(s) who had sexual contact with an infected person during the 10 days preceding the onset of symptoms need to be examined and treated, whether or not they show symptoms of chancroid.
How common is chancroid?
It is extremely rare in this country. It is more common in tropical countries.
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