Lymphogranuloma Venereum

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What is Lymphogranuloma Venereum (LGV)?

LGV is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a type of chlamydia bacteria which can lead to serious health problems if left untreated.

How do you get LGV?

You can get LGV by having direct contact with lesions, ulcers or where the bacteria is located during unprotected oral, vaginal or anal sex with an infected person.

How can you tell if you have LGV?

You might notice:

• a small painless sore or lump at the spot where the bacteria entered your body (e.g. vagina, penis, rectum, cervix or mouth)
• flu-like symptoms—fever, headaches, body aches and pains
• swollen glands in the infected area (groin, anal area or neck) which may drain or bleed
• blood and pus from your anus if you got the infection by this route

How do you get tested for LGV?

A swab is taken from the infected area and a blood test may be done.

How is LGV treated?

Antibiotics will treat and cure LGV.

It is important to:

• take all the pills as prescribed
• not have sex until you and your sex partner(s) have been tested and completed treatment
  tell your sex partner(s) that you have LGV so they can be treated at the same time

Is follow-up necessary?

Yes. It is important to return for a check up to make sure the infection is gone. You should have a test of cure done 3-4 weeks after completing your treatment.

How do you protect yourself and others?

• Abstain from sex or limit your number of sex partners
• Always use a condom or barrier for vaginal, oral and anal sex
• Get an STI check up—especially if you’ve had a new sex partner, more than one sex partner, or suspect you have an infection
• Ask your partner(s) to be tested before you have sex
• Make informed decisions by talking to your partner about his/her sexual health and the use of protection, BEFORE having sex
• Consider getting immunized for STIs such as hepatitis B and Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
  Not all STIs can be routinely tested.
• Recognize that alcohol and drug use prior to sex can affect your decision to have safer sex.

Are there any special concerns about LGV?

• LGV can increase the risk of getting or giving HIV, other STIs and blood-borne pathogens such as hepatitis B and hepatitis C.
• LGV is becoming more common. It is important to tell your health care provider of any travel to regions where LGV in prevalent.

Untreated LGV can cause:

• scarring and deformity in the genital or anal area
• meningoencephalitis, hepatitis and/or death in rare cases

Reference:

Canadian Guidelines on Sexually Transmitted Infections (2008)