Rectal Lymphogranuloma Venereum Mass Mimicking Colorectal Cancer

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Gastroenterology
• Public Health

Background:

• Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) is a specific serotype of Chlamydia trachomatis.
• LGV is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) globally.
• LGV can cause proctitis, presenting with symptoms mimicking other rectal conditions.

Observation:

• A 40-year-old male with well-controlled HIV presented with symptoms and imaging suggestive of rectal neoplasia.
• Initial investigations included colonoscopy with biopsy and rectal swab PCR.
• Chlamydia trachomatis was identified as the causative agent of LGV proctitis.

Findings:

• LGV proctitis can present as a rectal mass.
• Symptoms of LGV proctitis include rectal bleeding, pain, and tenesmus.
• LGV proctitis can be misdiagnosed as malignancy due to overlapping clinical and imaging features.

Implications:

• Clinicians should consider LGV proctitis in the differential diagnosis of rectal masses and proctitis, especially in at-risk populations.
• Accurate diagnostic methods, including PCR, are essential for identifying LGV.
• Prompt treatment of LGV proctitis is important to prevent complications and ensure appropriate patient management.