User:Mr. Ibrahem/Lymphogranuloma venereum

Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) is a sexually transmitted infection caused by certain types of Chlamydia trachomatis. Symptoms may include a small painless genital ulcer and large lymph nodes in the groin on one side. Rectal exposure can result in anal pain and discharge. Onset is typically 3 to 12 days after exposure. Complications may include fistulae or anal stricture.

The disease is caused by the serovars L1, L2, and L3 of Chlamydia trachomatis. It is spread by sex, including vaginal, oral, and anal sex. Risk factors include men who have sex with men and HIV/AIDS. The infection primarily involves the lymphatic system. Diagnosis is suspected based on symptoms and confirmed by testing the site of infection by culture or PCR.

The recommended treatment is with 3 weeks of doxycycline; with erythromycin as an alternative. Incision and drainage of large lymph nodes may be required. Sexual contacts within the last 60 days should also be tested and treated. With treatment outcomes are fair.

Lymphogranuloma venereum is uncommon; though is more common in tropical areas of the world. It most commonly occurs in those between the ages of 15 and 40. While it likely occurs equally in both sexes, males are more commonly diagnosed. It was rare in developed nations before 2003, though a number of outbreaks have occurred in Europe and the USA since than. The disease was first described by Wallace in 1833 and again by Durand, Nicolas, and Favre in 1913.