Question

A young woman complains of a painless ulcer in the genital area. It is associated withnon-tender inguinal lymphadenopathy. What is the most likely diagnosis?

• A. Chancroid
• B. Syphilis
• C. Herpes genitalis
• D. Granuloma inguinale

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The young woman describes a painless ulcer in the genital area, which is further associated with non-tender inguinal lymphadenopathy. These clinical features are classic indicators of primary syphilis, caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum.

Let's break down the differential diagnosis with the provided options:

• Chancroid: Typically presents with painful genital ulcers and tender inguinal lymphadenopathy (bubo).
• Syphilis: Characterized by a painless ulcer (chancre) and non-tender lymphadenopathy, aligning perfectly with the symptoms described.
• Herpes genitalis: Typically involves painful vesicular lesions that might ulcerate, often accompanied by tender lymphadenopathy.
• Granuloma inguinale: Known for causing painless, beefy-red ulcers without prominent lymphadenopathy.

Given these comparisons, the diagnosis that correlates with a painless ulcer and non-tender inguinal lymphadenopathy is syphilis.