Syphilis and Lymphogranuloma Venereum: Resurgent Sexually Transmitted Infections in the UK: 2009 report

Synopsis

• 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: 14 August 2009