Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) is caused by Chlamydia trachomatis serovars L1, L2 and L3

• 'Normal' Chlamydia resulting in urethritis and pelvic inflammatory disease is caused by Chlamydia trachomatis serovars D through K.

Risk factors

• men who have sex with men
• the majority of patients who present in developed countries have HIV
• historically was seen more in the tropics

Features

Typically infection comprises of three stages:

• stage 1: small painless pustule which later forms an ulcer
• stage 2: painful inguinal lymphadenopathy
  • may occasionally form fistulating buboes
• stage 3: proctocolitis

Management: LGV is treated using doxycycline