Lymphogranuloma Venereum
Lymphogranuloma venereum is a sexually transmitted disease caused by Chlamydia trachomatis that produces painful swellings in the groin.
Lymphogranuloma venereum is caused by types of Chlamydia trachomatis other than those that cause nongonococcal urethritis and chlamydial cervicitis. The disease occurs mostly in tropical and subtropical areas and is uncommon in the United States, afflicting about 100 people each year.
Symptoms begin 3 or more days after infection. A small, painless, fluid-filled blister develops usually on the penis or in the vagina. Typically, the blister becomes a sore that quickly heals--often going unnoticed. Next, lymph nodes in the groin on one or both sides may swell and become tender. With prolonged or repeated episodes of infection, the lymphatic vessels may become obstructed, causing tissue to swell. Rectal infection may cause scarring, which can result in a narrowing of the rectum.
A doctor suspects lymphogranuloma venereum based on its characteristic symptoms. The diagnosis can be confirmed by a blood test that identifies antibodies against Chlamydia trachomatis. If given early in the disease, treatment with oral doxycycline, erythromycin, or tetracycline for 3 weeks results in rapid healing.
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