Analysis index

On suspicion of hemophilus ducreyi it is recommended to take a moist swab from the ulcer base and margins (not directly from the pus), however even then only little pathogenic material can be expected. The swab (in the corresponding transport medium) should be sent to the laboratory as soon as possible; if applicable, also pus from swollen lymph nodes or tissue particles from the ulcer margins (pathogen demonstration).

Differential diagnosis: Genital abscesses, lymphadenopathy in the groin area

Incidence mainly in the Tropics and in case of promiscuity, in Central Europe very rare sexually transmitted disease (soft chancre) with a painful, slightly bleeding abscess in the genital area and enlarged, however soft and also painful regional lymph nodes.

In the laboratory, there is initial microscopic testing (partial findings report), cultivation may take up to 10 days. Sensitivity is nonetheless low.

For choosing the best antibiotic treatment, the corresponding recommendations of the current STI-guidelines may be helpful. Resistance testing is not possible.

 As for all STDs, further possible co-infections should be taken into consideration and diagnostics expanded as necessary.

Please also refer to sections “Multiplex-PCR for the detection of sexually transmitted infections (STI)”.