Definition
Chancroid is a bacterial disease that is spread only through sexual contact.
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Chancroid is caused by a type of bacteria called Haemophilus ducreyi.
The disease is found mainly in developing and third world countries. Only a small number of cases are diagnosed in the United States each year. Most people in the U.S. diagnosed with chancroid have traveled outside the country to areas where the disease is known to occur frequently.
Uncircumcised men are at much higher risk than circumcised men for getting chancroid from an infected partner. Chancroid is a risk factor for the HIV virus.
Pictures & Images
Male and female reproductive systems
The male and female reproductive systems, viewed from a mid-sagittal section.
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Chancroid : Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
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Chancroid : Symptoms & Signs, Diagnosis & Tests
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Chancroid : Treatment
Review Date : 7/29/2009
Reviewed By : Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine; Susan Storck, MD, FACOG, Chief, Eastside Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound, Redmond, Washington; Clinical Teaching Faculty, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
