[A man with cervical lymph node swelling]

Marjolein Hordijk1, Marjo E E van Kasteren2, Ferdinand C A Timmer3,4

  • 1Amphia Ziekenhuis, afd. Chirurgie, Breda.

Insights

A rare case of cervical lymphogranuloma venereum (CLV) was diagnosed in an HIV-positive patient presenting with a neck mass. Diagnosis was confirmed by PCR identifying Chlamydia trachomatis in lesion material.

Area of Science:

  • Otorhinolaryngology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Immunology

Context:

  • A 48-year-old human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive male presented with a progressively enlarging left neck mass, accompanied by constitutional symptoms including fever and night sweats.
  • The patient's presentation prompted an otorhinolaryngology consultation for evaluation of the cervical mass.

Purpose:

  • To report a rare case of cervical lymphogranuloma venereum (CLV) in an HIV-positive individual.
  • To highlight the diagnostic challenges and confirm the etiology through molecular methods.

Summary:

  • Initial biopsy revealed granulomatous, necrotizing inflammation, suggestive of an infectious or inflammatory process.
  • Extensive investigations were performed, leading to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing on lesion aspirate.
  • PCR analysis of the punctate material yielded a positive result for Chlamydia trachomatis, establishing the diagnosis of CLV.

Impact:

  • This case underscores the importance of considering atypical presentations of Chlamydia trachomatis infections, particularly in immunocompromised patients.
  • The findings emphasize the utility of PCR in confirming the diagnosis of CLV when traditional methods may be inconclusive.
  • Early and accurate diagnosis of CLV is crucial for appropriate management and preventing potential complications.

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