Syphilis and Lymphogranuloma Venereum: Resurgent Sexually
Transmitted Infections in the UK: 2009 report Health Protection
Agency Epidemics of infectious syphilis and Lymphogranuloma
venereum (LGV) are continuing especially among men who have sex
with men (MSM) who are known to be HIV infected. 3762 diagnoses
of infectious syphilis were made in 2007, more than in any other
year since 1950. 849 cases of LGV were diagnosed between 2003
and 2008, the majority of whom had symptoms of proctitis (rectal
pain, discharge, bloody stools and constipation). MSM account
for 73% of infectious syphilis and 99% of LGV cases. HIV co-
infection is common in those diagnosed with LGV (74%) and
syphilis (27%) reflecting the close relationships between the
epidemics. The increased number of syphilis cases in women of
reproductive age has resulted in an increase in cases of
congenital infection. Last reviewed: 30 April 2010