Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by L1, L2, and L3 serovars of Chlamydia trachomatis that primarily infects the lymphatics and can be transmitted through unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sexual contact. Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) is an uncommon sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by Chlamydia trachomatis. LGV is endemic in certain areas of Africa, Southeast Asia, India, the Caribbean,...

Understanding the Context

Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) passed on through anal, vaginal or oral sex. Providers can treat LGV with antibiotics. LGV is caused by C. trachomatis serovars L1, L2, or L3 (539, 540).

Key Insights

LGV can cause severe inflammation and invasive infection, in contrast with C. trachomatis serovars A—K that cause mild or asymptomatic infection. Clinical manifestations of LGV can include GUD, lymphadenopathy, or proctocolitis. This topic will review the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment of LGV. Other manifestations of C.

Final Thoughts

trachomatis infection are discussed separately. LGV is primarily an infection of lymphatics and lymph nodes. Chlamydia trachomatis is the bacterium responsible for LGV. It gains entrance through breaks in the skin, or it can cross the epithelial cell layer of mucous membranes. The bacteria are spread by sexual contact. The infection is not caused by the same strain of bacteria that causes genital chlamydia.

LGV is more common in Central and South America than in North America. LGV is more common in men than in women. The main risk factor is being HIV-positive. Lymphogranuloma venereum is a disease caused by 3 unique strains of Chlamydia trachomatis and characterized by a small, often asymptomatic skin lesion, followed by regional lymphadenopathy in the groin or pelvis.