Did you know more than 10 lakh Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are acquired worldwide, most of which are asymptomatic? Every year, an estimated 37.4 crore new infections occur and 50 crore people are said to have a genital infection with herpes simplex virus, which causes contagious sores.
Of the many STIs, donovanosis is one such infection that is also referred to as 'flesh-eating' infection. In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Umang Agrawal, Infectious Diseases Consultant, PD Hinduja Hospital and Medical Research Centre, Mahim, explains the condition and also shares ways to prevent it.
Also Read: The Fear Of Vaginal Penetration Is Real: Expert Explains The Condition Called Vaginismus
What Is Donovanosis?
“Donovanosis is an STI caused by Klebsiella granulomatis, which primarily affects the genital and perianal regions, causing painless ulcers or lesions that can cause more complications, if left untreated,” says Dr Agrawal.
According to him, before progressing into ulcers, donovanosis initially manifests as a pseudobubo, characterised by subcutaneous granulations that later ulcerate. This condition is sometimes referred to as a "flesh-eating" infection due to the appearance of the resulting ulcers, which are typically red, non-tender, and prone to easy bleeding.
According to research, in 90% of the donovanosis cases, the genitals are affected, whereas 10% cases are caused in the inguinal region, which is the area where the thigh meets the lower abdomen, often associated with the groin.
How Do People Get Infected?
Donovanosis is a sexually transmitted infection, which primarily spreads through direct sexual contact with an infected person, typically through genital, anal, or oral intercourse.
It can also potentially spread through contact with infected genital secretions or contaminated objects, although sexual transmission is the most common route.
The infection is most common among adults aged 20–40 years, says a study published in the Journal Anais Brasileiros De Dermatologia, explaining that it is a period of greater sexual activity.
Symptoms To Watch Out For
Here are some common symptoms of donovanosis:
- Painless genital or anal ulcers or sores
- Slowly progressive, beefy-red, raised, and irregular ulcers
- Ulcers that may bleed easily
- Absence of pain or tenderness in the ulcers
- Swelling in the groin area (groin buboes) in some cases
Preventive Measures
Since donovanosis spreads primarily through sexual contact, Dr Agrawal recommends practising safe sex and taking all necessary measures to curb the spread of STIs. Safe sex basically includes:
- Use of condoms or dental dams during sexual intercourse
- Regular testing for STIs and knowing your partner's STI status
- Reducing the number of sexual partners
- Open and honest communication with sexual partners about sexual health
- Getting vaccinated against STIs such as HPV and hepatitis B
- Practising abstinence or choosing low-risk sexual activities
- Avoiding the sharing of needles or equipment for drug use
- Seeking medical advice and treatment for any signs of STIs or genital discomfort
Bottomline
Donovanosis is a distressing infection that can be spread through sexual contact. While it’s painless, it can cause discomfort and may put others at risk too. The best way to prevent it is by practising safe and protective sex and consulting a healthcare professional when symptoms arise.