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Lymphogranuloma Venereum is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by specific strains of the Chlamydia trachomatis bacteria. It typically begins with a small lesion and progresses to severe swelling of the lymph nodes in the groin.
read more about lymphogranuloma venereum ...The mechanism of progression involves three stages. It starts with a small, painless lesion at the site of infection. It then progresses to the second stage, causing severe, painful swelling of the lymph nodes (buboes) in the groin, which often drain pus.
A small painless sore forms at the site of entry and heals quickly. Weeks later, painful swollen lymph nodes arise in the groin and can drain through the skin. Fever, malaise, and joint aches may appear during this stage. Rectal pain, discharge, or bleeding occurs with receptive anal exposure. Scarring and strictures can develop without treatment.
Diagnosis involves a blood test or a swab test from the lesion or swollen lymph node. Treatment is straightforward and involves a course of antibiotics (doxycycline) to kill the bacteria and prevent long-term tissue damage.
This condition can directly impact eye health if the bacteria spreads. The Chlamydia trachomatis strain can cause a chronic form of infectious conjunctivitis (pink eye), leading to redness, discharge, and inflammation of the eyelids, requiring specific antibiotic eye drops.
Preventive measures include consistent and correct use of barrier protection during sexual activity and prompt testing and treatment for all sexual partners if infection is diagnosed.
LGV is rare in most developed countries but is a serious health concern in some regions.
Yes, the bacteria can be spread even if the initial lesion is unnoticed or healed.
Surgery is sometimes needed to drain severely swollen and painful lymph nodes.
See a doctor for painful swelling in the groin (buboes) or rectal discharge. LGV is caused by specific strains of Chlamydia. If the bacteria reach the eye (Ocular LGV), it can cause severe "Follicular Conjunctivitis" and corneal scarring if not treated with systemic antibiotics.
CDC. LGV Treatment Guidelines (cdc.gov). 2021.
StatPearls. LGV Infection (ncbi.nlm.nih.gov). 2025.
MSD Manuals. Lymphogranuloma Venereum (merckmanuals.com). 2025.
ECDC. LGV Annual Report (ecdc.europa.eu). 2025.