LGV is a long-term (chronic) infection of the lymphatic system. It is caused by certain strains of the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis. 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 women. The main risk factor is being HIV-positive.
Symptoms
Symptoms of LGV can begin a few days to a month after coming in contact with the bacteria. Symptoms include:
Drainage through the skin from lymph nodes in the groin
Your health care provider will examine you. You will be asked about your medical and sexual history. Tell your provider if you had sexual contact with someone you think has had symptoms of LGV.
A physical exam may show:
An oozing, abnormal connection (fistula) in the rectal area
A sore on the genitals
Drainage through the skin from lymph nodes in the groin
Long-term inflammation and swelling of the genitals
Scarring and narrowing of the rectum
Complications can occur many years after you are first infected.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Contact your provider if:
You have been in contact with someone who may have an STI, including LGV
You develop symptoms of LGV
Prevention
Not having any sexual activity is the only way to prevent an STI. Safer sex behaviors may reduce the risk.
The proper use of condoms, either the male or female type, greatly decreases the risk of catching an STI. You need to wear the condom from the beginning to the end of each sexual activity.
References
Batteiger BE, Tan M. Chlamydia trachomatis (trachoma, urogenital infections). In: Bennett JE, Dolin R, Blaser MJ, eds. Mandell, Douglas, and Bennett's Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases. 9th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 180.
Review Date:
8/26/2023
Reviewed By:
Jatin M. Vyas, MD, PhD, Associate Professor in Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Associate in Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.