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London (pte014/07.02.2005/10:30) - A sexually transmitted infection that has previously only been seen in the developing world is spreading across western Europe, according to experts. As the BBC http://www.bbc.co.uk reports, London is among a number of major cities that have reported outbreaks of lymphomagranuloma venereum (LGV). The 24 cases in England have been in gay men but both sexes can contract LGV through unprotected sex, experts say. Symptoms of the infection include genital ulcers and swelling of the groin, but it can be easily treated using antibiotics. In recent months, outbreaks of LGV have been reported in Rotterdam, Antwerp, Paris, Stockholm and Hamburg. This week, two men in New York were also diagnosed with the disease.
"LGV was previously hardly ever seen in the western world," said Neil Macdonald from England's Health Protection Agency http://www.hpa.org.uk . "It is endemic in certain areas of Africa, Asia, South America and the Caribbean. What we are seeing now is something that is quite new and is affecting gay men," he added. According to Macdonald, it was unclear how long LGV had been in western Europe and that it may be the case that now people are checking for it more cases are found.
LGV is caused by a strain of bacteria, similar to the one that causes Chlamydia. The first symptom of the disease is generally inflammation of the rectum (proctitis). Pain, discharge, rectal bleeding and bloody stools are commonly reported, as well as genital ulcers. An infected person may also notice large painful swelling in the groin, as the infection invades the lymph nodes. LGV can be easily treated with a three-week course of antibiotics. However, if it is not detected and treated, complications can develop such as fever, weight loss and lesions and permanent scarring of the rectal lining that might need surgical repair. According to Macdonald, the symptoms can often be mistaken for a bowel problem, which can delay the diagnosis.
"We are working with key target groups of HIV men to raise awareness about LGV," said Will Mutland from the Terrence Higgins Trust. "As well as having unprotected sex with multiple partners, this group might be particularly at risk because they have a condition that affects the immune system and ability to fight infections. People need to be aware of the symptoms. We also want to encourage regular screening, not just for LGV but for a range of other STIs," he added. According to Macdonald, anyone who thinks they may have put themselves at risk of LGV or any other STI should go to their doctor for a check-up.
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