Chancroid is a sexually transmitted genital ulcer disease caused by the bacterium Haemophilus ducreyi. Although not commonly seen in the United States, it is a relatively common disease in the developing world. As with syphilis, the open sores caused by chancroid increase a person's risk of acquiring other sexually transmitted infections, including HIV.
The early signs of chancroid may be mistaken for syphilis. However, the ulcers generally grow to a larger size, and are more painful than those associated with syphilis. Chancroid may also lead to swelling, tenderness, and inflammation of the lymph nodes in the groin, a side effect not associated with syphilis.
Chancroid is treated with antibiotics.
For More Information:
- Chancroid Symptoms (Warning: Photos May Offend Some Viewers)
- Chancroid Diagnosis
- Chancroid Treatment
Sources:
The MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Chancroid Accessed 5/28/07.
