LGV (lymphogranuloma venereum) is a sexually transmitted infection caused by a certain type of Chlamydia bacteria. It has been seen in gay men, so everyone needs to look out for it.
LGV
Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) is a sexually transmitted infection not normally seen in the US. But since the end of 2004, some cases have been identified in gay men in the US. Several hundreds more cases have been seen among gay men in Europe.
LGV is caused by a rare form of Chlamydia bacteria and is cured by antibiotics.
How is LGV passed on?
Men with lots of sexual partners are at most risk. Unprotected anal sex and fisting without latex gloves are the main ways the infection is spread. Using sex toys, like dildos on more than one person can also spread the bacteria.
Symptoms
There are three stages to LGV, with different symptoms depending on what part of the body is infected.
Stage One
Three days to three weeks after getting infected, a small painless sore might appear in your mouth or anus, or on your penis. Many people do not get a sore or notice one.
Stage Two
Ten to 30 days later (or longer), your glands may become painfully swollen and you may feel ill or feverish. If you get infected in the anus, you can get painful inflammation, ulcers and discharge there. If the infection is in your penis, you may get a discharge and the glands in your groin can become swollen. An infection in the mouth may cause the glands in your neck to swell.
Stage Three
If it is left untreated for a long time, LGV will cause serious lasting damage to your anus or your penis.
Treatment
Three weeks of antibiotics can cure LGV if it treated before stage three.
Protect yourself and others
You can reduce the risk of contracting LGV if you use condoms, and use latex gloves for fisting. If you share sex toys, cover them with a fresh condom for each person they are used with.