How Common Is Donovanosis?

Symptoms of donovanosis (granuloma inguinale) include: 

• Painless ulcers on the genitals, anal region, or groin
• Lumps grow slowly and become ulcers
• Lesions are highly vascular, have a “beefy” red appearance, and can bleed easily
• In some cases, the sores have a bad odor
• Secondary bacterial infection can occur which may cause lesions to become painful

Donovanosis (granuloma inguinale) is caused by the bacterium Klebsiella granulomatis (formerly known as Calymmatobacterium granulomatis).

• The bacteria are spread through direct contact with sores during sexual activity, usually vaginal or anal sex. A mother can also pass the bacteria on to her child during childbirth.
• Everyone who is diagnosed with donovanosis should be tested for human immunodeficiency virus, because donovanosis increases the risk for contracting HIV.

Diagnosis (granuloma inguinale) is diagnosed with a patient history and physical examination. 

Laboratory testing includes:

• A swab or biopsy from an ulcer
• Tests to exclude other causes of genital ulcers, such as syphilis and genital herpes

Treatment for donovanosis (granuloma inguinale) usually involves a prolonged course of antibiotics until all sores are healed. Sores will not go away on their own without treatment.  

Follow-up is important because relapses can occur within 6 to 18 months, even after apparently effective treatment, requiring re-treatment.