Question 1

What is Lymphogranuloma venereum?

Accepted Answer

Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) is a chronic sexually transmitted infection that affects the lymphatic system and genital tissues. It is caused by specific serovars (L1, L2, and L3) of Chlamydia trachomatis bacteria, which are more invasive than the strains causing typical chlamydial infections. The Chlamydia and Gonorrhea Test is the most important test for diagnosis because it detects the presence of Chlamydia trachomatis DNA that causes this infection.

Question 2

What causes lymphogranuloma venereum?

Accepted Answer

Lymphogranuloma venereum is caused by three specific serovars of Chlamydia trachomatis bacteria: L1, L2, and L3. These strains are different and more invasive than the Chlamydia trachomatis strains that cause typical genital infections. The bacteria enter the body through small breaks in the skin during sexual contact and then invade the lymphatic system, causing progressive inflammation and swelling of lymph nodes, particularly in the groin area.

Question 3

What is the best test for lymphogranuloma venereum?

Accepted Answer

The Chlamydia and Gonorrhea Test is the most important test for lymphogranuloma venereum because it detects Chlamydia trachomatis DNA or antigens in your system. This nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) can identify the specific bacterium responsible for LGV from genital, rectal, or throat swab samples. The test is highly sensitive and can detect the infection even in early stages before symptoms become severe. While specialized testing can differentiate between LGV serovars and typical chlamydia strains, the standard Chlamydia and Gonorrhea Test is essential for initial diagnosis and helps determine if you need specialized treatment for this chronic infection.

Question 4

When should I get tested for lymphogranuloma venereum?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you notice a small painless sore or bump on your genitals, rectum, or mouth that appeared after sexual contact, especially if it heals on its own within a few days. Get tested immediately if you develop painful, swollen lymph nodes in your groin area, have unusual rectal pain or bleeding, or experience abnormal discharge. You should also consider testing if you have had unprotected sex with multiple partners, are a man who has sex with men, or if a sexual partner has been diagnosed with LGV or any sexually transmitted infection.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of lymphogranuloma venereum?

Accepted Answer

LGV progresses through three stages with varying symptoms. The first stage typically involves a small, painless sore or ulcer at the infection site that appears 3 to 30 days after exposure and often goes unnoticed. The second stage, occurring 2 to 6 weeks later, brings painful swelling of lymph nodes in the groin, fever, chills, and joint pain. In the third stage, if untreated, you may experience chronic inflammation, scarring, genital swelling, rectal strictures, and painful bowel movements. Rectal LGV can cause persistent pain, bleeding, and discharge that mimics inflammatory bowel disease.

Question 6

Who is at risk for lymphogranuloma venereum?

Accepted Answer

Men who have sex with men are at highest risk for LGV, particularly those who engage in receptive anal intercourse. People with multiple sexual partners, those who do not consistently use condoms, and individuals with other sexually transmitted infections face increased risk. LGV outbreaks have been documented in urban areas with active sexual networks, and people living with HIV are more susceptible to contracting and experiencing severe forms of the infection. Sex workers and their clients also have elevated risk due to increased exposure.

Question 7

What happens if lymphogranuloma venereum is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated LGV can cause permanent and debilitating complications affecting your quality of life. The chronic inflammation leads to extensive scarring and tissue destruction, resulting in genital elephantiasis (severe swelling), rectal strictures that make bowel movements difficult or impossible, and fistulas (abnormal connections between organs). Women may develop esthiomene, a condition causing severe genital tissue destruction. The infection can spread to other areas of the body and increase your risk of transmitting or acquiring HIV. These complications often require surgical intervention and may never fully resolve even after treatment.

Question 8

Can lymphogranuloma venereum be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Lymphogranuloma venereum is not typically diagnosed with a traditional blood test. The primary diagnostic method uses nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) that detect Chlamydia trachomatis DNA from swab samples taken from the infection site, such as the genitals, rectum, or throat. Blood tests for chlamydia antibodies can show exposure to the bacteria but cannot distinguish between LGV-causing serovars and typical chlamydia strains. Specialized molecular testing or genotyping can confirm LGV-specific serovars, but these tests require specimens from the affected area rather than blood samples.

Question 9

How is lymphogranuloma venereum treated?

Accepted Answer

LGV requires a longer course of antibiotics compared to typical chlamydial infections. The standard treatment is doxycycline 100 mg taken twice daily for 21 days, which is significantly longer than the 7-day treatment for uncomplicated chlamydia. Alternative antibiotics include erythromycin or azithromycin for people who cannot take doxycycline, such as pregnant women. All sexual partners from the past 60 days need testing and treatment to prevent reinfection. Large swollen lymph nodes may require drainage through aspiration or surgical incision to relieve pain, and severe cases with complications may need additional surgical procedures to correct strictures or fistulas.

Question 10

How can I prevent lymphogranuloma venereum?

Accepted Answer

Consistent and correct condom use during all forms of sexual contact (vaginal, anal, and oral) significantly reduces your risk of contracting LGV. Limit your number of sexual partners and establish mutually monogamous relationships with partners who have tested negative for sexually transmitted infections. Regular STI screening is essential if you are sexually active with multiple partners or engage in high-risk behaviors. Avoid sexual contact if you or your partner has visible sores, bumps, or unusual discharge. If diagnosed with LGV, abstain from sexual activity until you complete the full antibiotic course and your healthcare provider confirms the infection is cleared.

Question 11

What can I do at home for lymphogranuloma venereum?

Accepted Answer

While antibiotics are essential for treating LGV, you can support your recovery at home by taking all prescribed medications exactly as directed for the full 21-day course, even if symptoms improve earlier. Apply warm compresses to swollen lymph nodes to reduce pain and discomfort. Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to manage fever and pain. Wear loose, breathable clothing to avoid irritating affected areas and maintain good hygiene by keeping the genital area clean and dry. Rest adequately, stay hydrated, and eat a balanced diet to support your immune system. Avoid all sexual contact until treatment is complete and your healthcare provider confirms the infection is cleared.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

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Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
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            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
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Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
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            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
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Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
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Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
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            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Lymphogranuloma Venereum Blood Test

What is Lymphogranuloma venereum?

What causes lymphogranuloma venereum?

What is the best test for lymphogranuloma venereum?

When should I get tested for lymphogranuloma venereum?

References

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