Granuloma inguinale

Synonym:

Granuloma venereum
Granuloma donovanosis

Granuloma inguinale is a chronic granulomatous infection caused by Calymmatobacterium granulomatis. Transmission is usually venereal. It is widespread in the tropics.
Diagnostically, C. granulomatis can be seen within mononuclear cells, the so-called Donovan bodies.
Clinically, a papule followed by a painless ulcer develops after a variable incubation period of from one to eight weeks. The ulcer can extend with a serpiginous edge. Vegetations may be present.
Lesions are usually in the groin, where the inguinal nodes can enlarge and can ulcerate.
The skin and node ulcers can progress for years, but spontaneous healing usually occurs eventually. Secondary bacterial infection is common.

Treatment:

• Azithromycin 500mg. daily for one week
• Erythromycin, doxycycline or Ciprofloxacin

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