Donovanosis in Central India: A Series of Six Cases and Review of Literature

Abstract

Donovanosis is a chronic, sexually transmitted bacterial infection caused by Klebsiella granulomatis, previously known as Calymmatobacterium granulomatis characterised by granulomatous ulceration affecting primarily genitalia and inguinal region. It is endemic in tropical regions of the world including the east coast of India. We hereby report six cases of Donovanosis in Central India registered in two years, diagnosed by presence of beefy red granulomatous ulcers and microscopic visualisation of Donovan bodies on tissue smear. Five out of six cases were associated with HIV infection and required longer duration of treatment and often a combination of antibiotics.

Keywords

• donovan bodies
• genital ulcer disease
• granuloma inguinale
• perianal ulcer
• sexually transmitted infection
• tissue smear