Granuloma inguinale is a relatively rare disease occurring in people living in tropical and subtropical areas. It occurs more frequently in males. In the United States, while homosexuals are at greater risk, it is relatively rare in heterosexual partners of those infected.

Granuloma inguinale is thought to be spread by sexual contact with an infected individual.

The disease begins with the appearance of lumps or blisters in the genital area. The blister becomes a slowly enlarging open sore.

The incubation period appears to be between eight and 80 days after infection.

Granuloma inguinale is communicable as long as the infected person remains untreated and bacteria from lesions are present.

Past infection does not make a person immune. Susceptibility is variable. There is no evidence of natural resistance.

There are several antibiotics that will effectively cure granuloma inguinale. Response to the antibiotic should be evident within seven days and total healing usually occurs within three to five weeks.

If left untreated, granuloma inguinale can result in extensive destruction of genital organs and may also spread to other parts of the body.

• Limit the number of your sex partners.
  
• Use a condom.
  
• Carefully wash the genitals after sexual relations.
  
• If you think you are infected, avoid any sexual contact and visit your local sexually transmitted disease (STD) clinic, a hospital or your doctor.
  
• Notify all sexual contacts immediately so they can obtain medical care.

New York State Department of Health