24 cases of LGV infection in UK homeland

An editorial in the journal Sexually Transmitted Infections has revealed that in January 2005, the first 24 cases were reported in the UK, mostly from sexual health clinics in London. All were in gay men, 17 of whom were HIV positive, four also had hepatitis C infection.

Five thought they had caught the infection in mainland Europe, others said they had become infected in the UK. By mid February, a total of 34 cases had been reported.

The infection, which can be treated with a three week course of antibiotics, usually manifests as an ulcer or papule, and symptoms usually include rectal inflammation (proctitis), rectal pain and bleeding, straining, constipation and abdominal pain, it may also be accompanied by fever and malaise.

If the primary ulcer goes unnoticed, and is left untreated, it can progress to chronic infection with the formation of skin pouches (fistulas), abscesses, and narrowing of the anus as well as problems with the lymphatic system, surgery is often necessary.
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