Extragenital donovanosis: three cases from Western Australia

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Donovanosis, a chronic bacterial infection caused by *Klebsiella granulomatis*, is typically characterized by genital lesions.
• Extragenital involvement is uncommon, posing diagnostic challenges.
• This study reviews rare instances of extragenital donovanosis.

Observation:

• Three distinct cases of extragenital donovanosis were identified.
• Presenting symptoms included abdominal wall ulceration, neck sinuses, and bone abscess.
• Two cases were diagnosed between 1979-1985 in Perth, Western Australia, representing rare extragenital infections within a larger cohort.

Findings:

• Extragenital donovanosis can present with diverse and non-genital manifestations.
• Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective management.
• The incidence of extragenital forms may be underestimated.

Implications:

• Clinicians should consider donovanosis in the differential diagnosis of unusual ulcerative or suppurative lesions, even in extragenital sites.
• Public health surveillance for donovanosis should include awareness of extragenital presentations.
• Further research into the epidemiology and pathogenesis of extragenital donovanosis is warranted.