granuloma inguinale

Granuloma inguinale, or Donovanosis, is a chronic cause of genital ulceration.

The causative organism, Calymmatobacterium granulomatis, has been cultured for the first time in many years and a polymerase chain reaction diagnostic using a colorimetric detection system has been developed.

Phylogenetic analysis confirms close similarities with the genus Klebsiella and a proposal made that C granulomatis be reclassified as Klebsiella granulomatis comb nov.

Azithromycin has emerged as the drug of choice and should be used if the diagnosis is confirmed or suspected. In donovanosis endemic areas, syndromic management protocols for genital ulceration may need to be adapted locally.

Etiology

Calymmatobacterium granulomatis (Klebsiella granulomatis) is the causative agent of the granuloma inguinale.