Azithromycin for Lymphogranuloma Venereum

In a nonrandomized trial, weekly azithromycin for 3 weeks appeared as effective as 21 days of twice-daily doxycycline for proctitis due to LGV.

Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) is often associated with anorectal symptoms among men who have sex with men (MSM). The infection is caused by certain strains of Chlamydia trachomatis that have a propensity for lymphoid tissue; thus, prolonged therapy has been advised. Currently, 100-mg doxycycline twice daily for 21 days is recommended, but high-quality evidence for this regimen is lacking. As macrolide antibiotics may also have efficacy, researchers in Spain conducted a prospective, nonrandomized, open-label trial of extended azithromycin (EAz; 1000-mg azithromycin once weekly for 3 weeks).

Participants included 125 MSM (96% of whom were HIV positive) with proctitis, recent unprotected anal intercourse, and a positive rectal DNA-LGV swab res…

Reviewing Author

Neil M. Ampel, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesCoccidioidomycosis Study Group (Past President, Secretary, Treasurer)

Neil M. Ampel, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesCoccidioidomycosis Study Group (Past President, Secretary, Treasurer)

Azithromycin for Lymphogranuloma Venereum

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Reviewing Author