Summary

• A sexually transmitted disease caused by the fastidious, gram-negative coccobacillus Haemophilus ducreyi.
• Common in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, but rare in developed countries.
• Classically presents with the acute onset of a painful genital ulcer with fluctuant lymphadenitis (bubo formation).
• An important co-factor in HIV transmission, and HIV status must be assessed.
• Most cases resolve with antibiotic therapy; recurrence rare.
• Sexual partners within 10 days prior to onset of symptoms must be traced and treated, even if asymptomatic.