LGV; LYMPHOGRANULOMA INGUINALE
A contagious venereal decease that involves the genitals and lymph glands. This disease is found mostly in tropical and subtropical areas.
FREQUENT SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
The following begin 1 to 4 weeks after exposure and progress in order:
- A painless blister on the genital which ulcerates (become an open and runny sore) and then heals quickly.
- Enlarged lymph glands in the groin that form large, red, tender masses.
- Multiple areas of deep infection that discharge thick pus and blood-sustained material.
Other symptoms include:- Fever.
- Muscle aches and pain, including backache.
- Headaches.
- Joint loss.
- Appetite loss.
- Vomiting.
CAUSES
The bacterium Chlamydia, which is transmitted by sexual activity. Incubation period is about 3 to 12 days.
RISK INCREASES WITH
- Travel to a country with a tropical or subtropical climate.
- Anal intercourse.
- Unprotected sexual activity with new partners.
PREVENTIVE MEASURES
- Use condoms during sexual intercourse with new partners.
- Don’t engage in sexual activity with an infected person.
EXPECTED OUTCOME
Usually curable in 6 weeks if treatment is successful. If not, the disorder is incurable, although it does not reduce the life expectancy.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
- Chronic infection.
- Interference with bowel and bladder function.
MANAGEMENT
GENERAL MEASURES
- Diagnostic tests may include studies, such as a blood test to rule out syphilis; a culture of the discharge from the lesions and antibody tests for the Chlamydia organism.
- Heat applied to affected area may help discomfort.
- Surgery to drain affected lymph glands or remove an abscess (a collection of pus as a result of an infection) and an internal organ to the body surface).
- Your sexual contacts should be examined also.
- Antibiotics to fight infection are taken for 21 days.
- Stronger pain relievers may be prescribed.
ACTIVITY
After treatment, resume normal activity as soon as symptoms improve. Don’t resume relations until completely healed.