Introduction:
Have you ever heard of soft cancer and hard cancer? While both share the term “cancer,” they are far removed from the traditional cancer most people know. In fact, they are sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that affect the male genital area and can often be confused with one another. In this article, we will explore the differences between these two conditions, including their causes, symptoms, transmission methods, and treatments, so you can better understand the importance of proper STD treatment.
What Are Soft Cancer and Hard Cancer?
Soft Cancer (Chancroid)
Soft cancer, or chancroid, is an infection resulting from the bacterium Haemophilus ducreyi. This sexually transmitted infection (STI) is marked by the appearance of painful sores in the genital area.
Hard Cancer (Syphilis)
Hard cancer, on the other hand, is an early symptom of syphilis, an infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. It initially appears as a firm, painless ulcer and, unlike soft cancer, tends to disappear on its own. Nevertheless, this does not imply that the infection has been eradicated.
Key Differences Between Soft Cancer and Hard Cancer
Causes and Pathogens
The main difference between soft cancer and hard cancer lies in the cause of the infection. Soft cancer is caused by the bacterium Haemophilus ducreyi, while hard cancer is an early manifestation of syphilis, caused by Treponema pallidum.
Symptoms and Characteristics of the Ulcers
- Soft Cancer: The ulcers of soft cancer are painful, with irregular edges, and may be accompanied by swelling in the nearby lymph nodes. The affected area tends to be very sensitive to touch.
- Hard Cancer: In the case of hard cancer, the ulcers are painless, firm, and have well-defined edges. They usually appear as small, round lesions and, although they don’t hurt, they indicate the presence of syphilis.
How Are Soft Cancer and Hard Cancer Transmitted?
Transmission of Soft Cancer
Soft cancer is mainly transmitted through direct sexual contact, whether vaginal, anal, or oral, with an infected person. Exposure to open sores promotes the spread of Haemophilus ducreyi.
Transmission of Hard Cancer
Since hard cancer is a symptom of syphilis, it spreads through sexual contact, but syphilis can still transmit even when ulcers are not visible. This occurs during contact with primary lesions, which are usually painless, or even through contact with infected secretions.
What Are the Causes and Risk Factors?
Causes of Soft Cancer
Soft cancer occurs due to infection by the Haemophilus ducreyi bacterium. Factors such as multiple sexual partners, lack of protection during sex, or having a pre-existing STI can increase the risk of contracting this infection.
Causes of Hard Cancer
The Treponema pallidum bacteria cause hard cancer and spread through sexual activity. Syphilis progresses in stages, with hard cancer appearing in the early stage, often allowing an infected person to unknowingly transmit the bacterium to others.
Common Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Symptoms of Soft Cancer
Soft cancer manifests as painful genital ulcers, often accompanied by fever, pain while urinating, and swelling in the lymph nodes. Without proper treatment, it may result in severe complications, including additional infections.
Symptoms of Hard Cancer
Hard cancer presents as a firm, painless ulcer. It can manifest in the genital, anal, or mouth regions. Although the ulcer may heal on its own, untreated infection can still cause serious complications, including damage to internal organs.
How Are Soft Cancer and Hard Cancer Treated?
Treatment of Soft Cancer
The treatment for soft cancer involves the use of antibiotics such as azithromycin or ceftriaxone. With the correct treatment, the ulcers disappear quickly, but it is essential to also treat sexual partners to avoid reinfection.
Treatment of Hard Cancer
Hard cancer, being a symptom of syphilis, requires treatment with antibiotics, usually penicillin. Although the hard cancer disappears after treatment, syphilis can progress to more severe stages if not completely treated.
Conclusion:
Although soft cancer and hard cancer share some similarities in name, their causes, symptoms, and treatments are quite different. Soft cancer is more painful and caused by the Haemophilus ducreyi bacterium, while hard cancer is a symptom of syphilis and is less painful but equally serious. Prevention is always the best approach, with the use of condoms and regular screenings. If you notice any suspicious symptoms, seek a healthcare professional immediately for proper diagnosis and treatment. Awareness of these infections is crucial for the sexual health of everyo.
Also Read: Penile Cancer | Prevention and Treatment