Haemophilus ducreyi is a bacterium responsible for chancroid, a sexually transmitted infection (STI) characterized by painful genital ulcers. While less common than some other STIs like gonorrhea or chlamydia, chancroid is a significant concern, particularly in regions with high rates of genital ulcer disease.

At Medpro Laboratory Clinic, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive diagnostic services for STIs. This article offers essential information about Haemophilus ducreyi, including its symptoms, how it spreads, and the crucial role of RT-PCR testing in its accurate detection, especially for individuals seeking reliable STD testing in Bangkok, whether they are residents or visitors to Thailand.

Understanding Haemophilus ducreyi: Symptoms, Transmission, and Advanced RT-PCR Testing

What is Haemophilus ducreyi?

Haemophilus ducreyi is a fastidious Gram-negative bacterium that primarily causes chancroid, a painful genital ulcer disease. It’s important to recognize the symptoms, as early diagnosis and treatment are vital to prevent further transmission and complications.

Symptoms of Chancroid Caused by Haemophilus ducreyi

The primary symptom of chancroid is the development of painful open sores, typically on the genitals. These ulcers can vary in size and number.

Initial Lesion: Begins as a small, tender red bump that appears on the genitals (penis, labia, vagina, anus) or surrounding areas, typically 3-10 days after exposure.
Ulcer Formation: Within a day or two, the bump turns into an open sore or ulcer. These ulcers are typically:

Painful: This is a hallmark symptom, distinguishing it from the painless ulcers of syphilis.
Soft to the touch: Unlike the firm sores of syphilis.
Irregular borders: Often ragged or undermined edges.
Gray or yellowish base: May have pus.
Bleed easily when touched.

Lymph Node Swelling (Buboes): In about half of cases, the lymph nodes in the groin can become swollen, tender, and painful, typically on one side. These swollen lymph nodes (called buboes) can sometimes rupture, forming abscesses.
Location: While most common on the genitals, ulcers can also appear in the anus, mouth, or thighs, depending on the type of sexual contact.
Symptoms in Women: Women may experience painful urination or painful intercourse if ulcers are inside the vagina or on the cervix, but ulcers may also be less noticeable or internal.

Transmission of Haemophilus ducreyi

Haemophilus ducreyi is exclusively transmitted through direct sexual contact with the open sores (ulcers) of an infected person. Transmission can occur through:

Vaginal Sex: Contact between the genitals.
Anal Sex: Contact between the genitals and anus.
Oral Sex: Contact between the mouth and genitals/ulcers.

The presence of chancroid ulcers also significantly increases the risk of acquiring or transmitting HIV.

Accurate Detection with RT-PCR Method

Given the importance of accurate and rapid diagnosis for STIs like chancroid, Medpro Laboratory Clinic utilizes the Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) method for detecting Haemophilus ducreyi.

Why RT-PCR is the Gold Standard for Haemophilus ducreyi Detection:

High Sensitivity and Specificity: Haemophilus ducreyi can be difficult to culture in a laboratory. RT-PCR overcomes this challenge by directly detecting the bacterium’s DNA with extremely high sensitivity and specificity. This means it can identify the infection even when only a small amount of bacteria is present, and it accurately distinguishes it from other pathogens.
Rapid Results: Traditional culture methods for Haemophilus ducreyi can take several days to weeks. RT-PCR provides results much faster, often within hours to a day. This speed is critical for timely treatment, preventing further spread, and managing painful symptoms promptly.
Improved Diagnostic Accuracy: Unlike microscopic examination, which can be prone to false negatives due to the fastidious nature of the bacteria, RT-PCR offers a definitive molecular diagnosis. This is especially important for proper differentiation from other genital ulcer causes like herpes simplex virus (HSV) or syphilis.
Reduced Risk of Misdiagnosis: Accurate identification via RT-PCR ensures that patients receive the correct treatment for chancroid, preventing unnecessary or ineffective therapies for other conditions.

Why Choose Medpro Laboratory Clinic for STD Testing in Bangkok?

For both residents and tourists in Thailand who are concerned about Haemophilus ducreyi or other STIs, Medpro Laboratory Clinic offers reliable, confidential, and cutting-edge STD testing services. Our state-of-the-art laboratory and the use of advanced RT-PCR technology ensure you receive accurate, rapid, and timely results, which are crucial for prompt initiation of effective treatment.