What is LGV?
Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by Chlamydia trachomatis serotypes L1, L2 and L3. LGV spreads mainly through sexual contact, when there is penetration of the penis into the vagina or anus without condom use. It can also be transmitted when sex objects are shared. It is possible to get LGV through oral sexual contact but this type of transmission is rare. The infection usually develops in three stages. During the first stage, one or several small sores (papules) appear. They are painless and often go unnoticed. The sores can evolve into ulcers. Most often, the sores appear where the bacteria entered the body (penis, anus, vagina, or the mouth or throat if transmitted through oral sex). The sores disappear after a few days, even if left untreated. A few weeks later, fever, chills, malaise, loss of appetite, and muscle and joint pain can develop. Painful lymph nodes may appear in the groin area (sometimes on both sides) or an inflammation of
