Granuloma inguinale

• A
• B
• C
• D
• E
• F
• G
• H
• I
• J
• K
• L
• M
• N
• O
• P
• Q
• R
• S
• T
• U
• V
• W
• X
• Y
• Z

Skin layers

Donovanosis

• Small, beefy-red bump on the genitalia or the perianal area that gradually eats away the skin and forms an elevated, beefy-red, velvety nodule (granulation tissue)
• These nodules are usually painless and bleed easily if traumatized
• Gradual spreading, with erosion and destruction of genital tissue
• Spread of disease to the inguinal folds (where the legs meet the torso)
• Depigmentation (loss of skin color) of the genitals and surrounding skin
• Untreated disease results in mutilation and destruction of the genital tissue.

In its early stages, it may be difficult to differentiate granuloma inguinale from chancroid. In the later stages, granuloma inguinale may resemble advanced genital cancers, lymphogranuloma venereum, and anogenital cutaneous amebiasis.

Classically, the diagnosis of granuloma inguinale should be considered if genital lesions have been present for a long time and have been progressively enlarging. Serological tests such as that used to detect syphilis are available only on a research basis for diagnosing granuloma inguinale.

Tests that may be performed include:

• Scrapings or punch biopsy of lesion to provide tissue for microscopic examination
• Culture of tissue sample -- difficult to do and not routinely available

Review Date: 06/17/2005
Reviewed By: Rocio Hurtado, M.D., Division of Infectious Disease, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.