Infections caused by one organism, two stories.

SUMMARYChancroid, a sexually transmitted infection caused by , is characterized by painful genital ulcers (GU) and inguinal lymphadenitis. was recently described as a major cause of non-sexually transmitted cutaneous ulcers (CU) on the lower legs in children in yaws-endemic regions. This review explores the relationship between CU and GU strains of ; their clinical presentation, diagnosis, epidemiology, and treatment; and how findings from a human challenge model relate to GU and CU. We contrast the decline of GU with the persistence of CU caused by . Factors such as transmission dynamics, control, and elimination efforts are discussed. Syndromic management and targeted treatment of sex workers can eradicate chancroid, while skin colonization by CU strains and environmental factors may necessitate topical treatments or vaccination for CU eradication. Efforts should focus on identifying additional reservoirs of CU strains, improving hygiene, and eliminating asymptomatic colonization to eradicate this painful infection in children.