Human macrophage rupturing after infection with Chlamydia

Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted illnesses, thought to affect around 10% of sexually active young adults. It is caused by transmission of the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis, of which there are three biovariants. This image shows one biovariant, lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) (red) infecting a macrophage (purple), a type of white blood cell responsible for engulfing cell debris and invading pathogens. LGV biovariants are found in Africa, South East Asia, South American and the Caribbean. LGV can spread to the lymph nodes, causing swelling reminiscent of bubonic diseases. Further symptoms include swelling and redness of skin in the groin and genital sores. If left untreated, LGV infection can result in long term swelling and inflammation in the genitals. The diameter of the macrophage is 8-10 micrometers.