What is Granuloma Inguinale?
Granuloma Inguinale is a bacterial STD, rare in the developed world.
It is characterised by ulcers on the genitals and is caused by the bacterium klebsiella granulomatis. No cases of granuloma inguinale were reported in Ireland in 2011. Most individuals in Ireland and the UK diagnosed with granuloma inguinale have visited countries where the disease occurs frequently, i.e Subsaharan Africa.
How is Granuloma Inguinale diagnosed?
Granuloma Inguinale is diagnosed by microscopy.
What are the signs and symptoms of Granuloma Inguinale?
About 10-40 days after exposure to the bacterium, small painless lumps appear on the penis or labia.
The lumps burst and ‘beefy-red ulcers’ appear, and the tissue will be destroyed until treated.
How is Granuloma Inguinale treated?
Granuloma Inguinale is treated with a long course of antibiotic.
How is Granuloma Inguinale prevented?
Granuloma Inguinale is prevented by consistent and correct male condom use.