Australian Society of CytologyCase of the Month
July 2003 - Answer and Discussion
Donovanosis
Answer
The Jenner-Giemsa stained smear exhibits an inflammatory picture composed of polymorphs, lymphocytes and macrophages, together with cellular debris. Bacteria are visible in the background. In some macrophages, the cytoplasm contains coccobacillary bacteria exhibiting a bipolar “closed safety pin” appearance. These bodies are commonly known as Donovan bodies. Histopathology of the lesion was confirmatory.
Discussion
Donovanosis, previously commonly called Granuloma inguinale, is an infection caused by the gram negative, encapsulated bacterium Calymmatobacterium granulomatis. It is usually seen as a venereal infection arising in the genital mucosa where it causes granulomatous lesions that may also ulcerate. Lesions may also be seen in extra-genital sites. Scrapings from the deeper aspects
of the lesions may yield diagnostic material. The organisms can be visualised in Papanicolaou stained preparations but they are more readily seen in Romanowsky stained preparations. Silver stains can also be used. The infection can be treated with antibiotics. In Australia, infections are more commonly seen in Aboriginal populations.
References
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Gupta PK. Microbiology, Inflammation and Viral Infections, In Comprehensive Cytopathology, M. Bibbo Ed. WB Saunders, Philadelphia 1991.
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases Services, Royal Adelaide Hospital, http://www.stdservices.on.net/std/donovanosis/details.htm [accessed 9/1/04]
