LYMPHOGRANULOMA VENEREUM

(Lymphogranuloma Inguinale)

 Basic information

description

Lymphogranuloma venereum is a contagious venereal disease that involves the genitals and lymph glands. This disease is found mostly in tropical and subtropical areas. It is rare in the United States. It usually occurs in adults (20s and 30s) and in men more than women.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• The following symptoms begin 3 to 30 days after exposure and progress in order.
• A painless blister on the genitals which ulcerates (becomes an open and runny sore) and then heals quickly.
• Enlarged lymph glands in the groin that form large, red, tender masses. These are called buboes.
• Multiple areas of deep infection that discharge thick pus and blood-stained material.
• Other symptoms include:
  • Fever.
  • Muscle aches and pain, including backache.
  • Headaches.
  • Joint pain.
  • Appetite loss.
  • Vomiting.

causes

A bacteria, Chlamydia, which is transmitted by sexual activity. This includes direct sexual contact with the genitals, rectum, or mouth. It may occur with skin-to-skin contact.

risk increases with

• Travel to and sexual activity with person(s) in a country where the disorder occurs frequently.
• Anal intercourse.
• Unprotected sexual activity with new partners.
• Multiple sexual partners.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

• Use latex condoms during sexual intercourse with new partners.
• Don't engage in any sexual activity with an infected person.

expected outcomes

Usually curable with appropriate treatment.

possible complications

• Relapse or reinfection.
• Tissue damage, scarring, rectal or intestinal blockages, and extreme swelling of the genitals.
• In severe cases, it attacks the central nervous system.
• Newborns can contract the disease from infected mothers during birth.

 diagnosis & treatment

general measures

• Your health care provider will do a physical exam including the genital and rectal areas. Medical tests may include blood studies, a culture of the discharge from the lesions and antibody tests for Chlamydia. Tests for other sexually transmitted diseases are often done.
• Treatment may include drugs, surgery, and self-care.
• Surgery may be needed for some complications. Affected lymph glands (buboes) may be drained. An abscess (a pus-filled sore) may be drained. Fistulas (an abnormal passage between two organs or from an internal organ to the body surface) may be repaired.
• Your sexual contacts should be examined also.
• Heat applied to affected area may help discomfort.
• To learn more: Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) National STD & AIDS Hotlines (800) 227-8922; website: www.cdc.gov/std.

medications

• Antibiotics for infection will be prescribed.
• For minor discomfort, you may use nonprescription drugs such as acetaminophen.
• Stronger pain relievers may be prescribed.

activity

After treatment, resume normal activity as soon as symptoms improve. Don't resume sexual relations until completely healed.

diet

No special diet.

 notify our office if

• You or a family member has symptoms of lymphogranuloma venereum.
• The following occur during treatment:
  • Temperature rises to 101°F (38.3°C) or higher.
  • Pain cannot be relieved with simple pain drugs.
• New, unexplained symptoms develop. Drugs used in treatment may produce side effects.

Special Notes: