Dr. M.J. Bazos, MD Patient Handout

GRANULOMA INGUINALE
(DONOVANOSIS)

About Your Diagnosis

Granuloma inguinale is a sexually transmitted disease that is common in tropical areas and developing countries. It is a chronic infection affecting the genital and groin areas.

Living With Your Diagnosis
Signs and symptoms of the disease can take 1–2 weeks to appear after exposure. Large raised, red lesions appear on the penis, vulva, or vagina and may also appear in the groin area. The lesions are painless. As they ulcerate, the area becomes dark red and may have raised edges that heal with extensive scar formation.

Treatment
Antibiotics such as tetracycline or erythromycin must be taken for 3 weeks, until complete healing occurs. The areas should be kept clean and dry. Testing for other sexually transmitted diseases should be done. Activity restrictions are not needed. No special diet is needed. A follow-up examination with your doctor is important to make sure no other treatment is necessary.

The DOs
• Take the antibiotics until finished.
• Keep the lesions clean and dry.
• Keep follow-up appointments with your doctor to make sure the infection is cleared.
• Notify sexual contacts so they can be examined and treated if necessary.
• Get tested for other sexually transmitted diseases.

The DON’Ts
• Don’t skip or stop the antibiotics until they are finished.
• Don’t skip your follow-up appointments with your doctor. If not completely cleared the infection can recur.
• Don’t apply creams or lotions to the lesions unless ordered by your doctor.
• Don’t have sexual relations until cleared by your doctor.

When to Call Your Doctor
• If any lesions appear infected.
• If the lesions become painful or have increased drainage.
• If a fever develops during treatment.
• If you cannot tolerate the antibiotics.

Websites:
http://sunsite.unc.edu/ASHA/