You've Got What?
How infectious diseases are spread and simple and practical advice for preventing the spread of infection in the home and community
Donovanosis (also known as granuloma inguinale) is caused by a bacterium called Klebsiella granulomatis.Donovanosis occurs in sub-tropical and tropical regions including, rarely, central and northern Australia. Donovanosis is a risk factor for transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
Donovanosis is a notifiable condition1
Donovanosis is spread through sexual contact, probably through direct contact with sores. It is usually spread through vaginal or anal sex. Non-sexual spread can occur, including mother to child transmission during delivery.
Signs and symptoms of donovanosis include one or more painless lumps, usually in the genitalia, anal region or groin. The lump(s) slowly gets larger and then ulcerates. These sores typically bleed easily, have a rolled edge and are beefy-red in colour. In some cases the sore has an offensive smell. The sores are usually painless, but may become painful if secondary bacterial infection occurs.
Complications may include:
Diagnosis is usually made by laboratory testing on a swab or biopsy from the ulcer. Laboratory tests to exclude other causes of genital ulcers, such as syphilis and genital herpes, should be done.
(time between becoming infected and developing symptoms)
Variable, probably 1 to 16 weeks.
(time during which an infected person can infect others)
Unknown, however probably infectious while sores present.
1 - In South Australia law requires doctors and laboratories to report some infections or diseases to SA Health. These infections or diseases are commonly referred to as 'notifiable conditions'.