Sexually transmitted diseases are surging in America. The CDC explains what to look out for

To better understand this condition, Salon reached out to Ronnie M. Gravett, MD, MSPH, an assistant professor of infectious diseases at the University of Alabama Birmingham’s School of Medicine. He explained to Salon by email that it is difficult to know the prevalence of Lymphogranuloma venereum because the existing systems for monitoring diseases do not focus on LGV.

According to Gravett, common symptoms of LGVB include discharge like pus, mucus and even blood from the anus and/or rectum. Occasionally this can also happen in the vagina or penis. “‘Tenesmus,’ or the sensation of anorectal fullness and discomfort, may also be present.

Importantly, LGV can cause an ulceration at the site of exposure, i.e., on the anal verge or higher up in the anus or rectum. Given its location, the ulcer may not ever be seen.” He also noted that LGV is more invasive than traditional chlamydia, “so it can spread to lymph nodes and cause enlarged lymph nodes, which may or not be detected.”