ABSTRACT
Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the L1, L2, and L3 serotypes of Chlamydia trachomatis (CT). It primarily affects regional lymph nodes. Although it is not endemic in Europe and North America, recent reports indicate an increasing prevalence among men who have sex with men, with proctocolitis as the most frequently reported symptom. We report the case of a homosexual male that presented to our department with a nodular lesion on the shaft of the penis and tender, enlarged inguinal lymph nodes. Throat, urethral, and rectal swabs were collected for CT testing using real-time polymerase chain reaction. The urethral swab was positive for CT, whereas the throat and rectal swabs were negative. Subsequent testing detected the presence of LGV DNA. The patient was treated with a prolonged course of doxycycline. After 6 weeks, the urethral swab for CT returned a negative result. The patient reported complete remission 7 weeks after the start of treatment.
Subject(s)
HIV Infections , Sexual and Gender Minorities , Male , Humans , Homosexuality, Male , Lower Extremity , Edema , Lymph NodesABSTRACT
Filariasis is a parasitic disease caused by infection with roundworms of the Filarioidea superfamily. Depending on the species of roundworm, the disease can present itself in one of three forms. It can affect the lymphatic system, the subcutaneous tissue, or serous cavities. We present the case of a male patient from central Europe with a subcutaneous manifestation similar to filariasis. Laboratory findings showed eosinophilia and elevated levels of IgE antibodies, and histological examination of skin biopsy material showed granulation tissue with lymphoid and plasma cell infiltration. When the lesion was examined under a microscope following an excision, live wormlike parasites about 3.5 cm long were detected. Such parasitic infections are usually encountered in tropical regions and sometimes reported in travelers returning from endemic countries. Our patient, however, had never left Europe, which is what makes this case so interesting.
