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Extragenital donovanosis: three cases from Western Australia
Abstract:
Three unusual cases of extragenital donovanosis are described. The presenting features were ulceration of the anterior abdominal wall, discharging sinuses of the neck, and an abscess of bone, respectively. Two cases were diagnosed recently and were the only instances of extragenital infection in a series of 47 patients with confirmed donovanosis diagnosed at a public health laboratory in Perth, Western Australia, between 1979 and the beginning of 1985. The third case, which occurred in 1977, was found in the records of a major teaching hospital.
Insights
Extragenital donovanosis, a rare sexually transmitted infection, can manifest in unusual locations like the abdominal wall, neck, and bone. This study highlights three such cases, emphasizing the need for broader diagnostic considerations.
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.