Lymphogranuloma venereum

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Lymphatic system

Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis.

LGV; Lymphogranuloma inguinale; Lymphopathia venereum

Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) is caused by three different sub-types of the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis. The bacteria is spread through sexual contact. (Note: This infection is caused by a different bacteria than the more common genital chlamydia.)

Symptoms of LGV can begin a few days to a month after becoming infected. It more common in Central and South America than in North America. There are a few thousand cases of LGV each year in the United States. The main risk factor is having multiple sexual partners.

The disease starts as a painless ulcer on the male genitalia or in the female genital tract. As the bacteria spreads, lymph nodes in the area become swollen and tender. The skin around the area is often red. The swollen lymph nodes (buboes) may break open and drain through the skin.

In people who have anal intercourse, the disease can affect the lymph nodes around the rectum (perirectal). The infection is often associated with bloody rectal discharge, painful bowel movement (tenesmus), diarrhea, and lower abdominal pain. Women may develop fistulas (connections) between the vagina and rectum.

Review Date: 10/09/2006
Reviewed By: D. Scott Smith, M.D., MSc, DTM&H, Chief of Infectious Disease & Geographic Medicine, Kaiser Redwood City, CA & Adjunct Assistant Professor, Stanford University. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.