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Gianotti N, Setti M, Manconi PE, Leoncini F, Chiodo F, Minoli L, Moroni M, Angarano G, Mazzotta F, Carosi G, Antonelli G, Lazzarin A. Reverse transcriptase mutations in HIV-1 infected patients treated with two nucleoside analogues: the SMART study. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2002; 15:129-139. [PMID: 12590875 DOI: 10.1177/039463200201500208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Resistance to nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) was studied in 527 HIV-1-infected patients, 342 responder and 185 non-responder to two NRTIs. Responders were followed for one year to assess the incidence of clinical failure. The prevalence of the 215Y/F substitution was higher among non-responder, compared to responder patients (33.7&#x0025 vs. 17&#x0025, P = 0.0005), whereas the prevalence of the 184V and of the 70R mutations was comparable between these two groups. The 74V substitution was never observed and the 75T mutation was detected in only two subjects non-responder to a stavudine including regimen. Reduced susceptibility to didanosine or stavudine was infrequent. Reduced susceptibility to zidovudine was observed in 25&#x0025 of individuals failing a zidovudine including regimen, whereas reduced susceptibility to lamivudine was detected in all subjects failing a lamivudine including regimen. In the prospective analysis, patients with undetectable viral load at enrollment had a lower incidence of failure rate over one year compared to those with detectable HIV-RNA at entry (P &#x003C 0.0001). A detectable viral load at enrollment was the only independent variable that predicted clinical failure over one year (P &#x003C 0.0001).
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Di Stefano M, Favia A, Monno L, Lopalco P, Caputi O, Scardigno AC, Pastore G, Fiore JR, Angarano G. Intracellular and cell-free (infectious) HIV-1 in rectal mucosa. J Med Virol 2001; 65:637-43. [PMID: 11745925 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.2084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The intestinal mucosa contains most of the total lymphocyte pool and plays an important role in viral transmission, but only slight attention has been given to the immunological and virological aspects of human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) infection at this site. In this study, before initiating or changing antiretroviral therapy, paired blood samples and rectal biopsies (RB) were obtained from 26 consecutive HIV-infected subjects. HIV-1 isolation and biological characterization, DNA, and HIV-1 RNA titration were assessed, as were in vitro tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and interleukin-beta (IL-1beta) spontaneous production. The rate of HIV-1 isolation from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and RBs was 75% and 58%, respectively. All RB-derived isolates were nonsyncytium inducing (NSI), independent of the phenotype of blood-derived isolates. Proviral DNA and detectable HIV-1 RNA levels were measured in 100% and 77% of RBs, respectively. A statistical correlation was observed between HIV-1 DNA and HIV-1 RNA levels in rectal mucosa (P = 0.0075), whereas no correlation was found between these levels in blood samples (P > 0.05). Antiretroviral treatment did not seem to influence HIV-1 detection in RBs. Higher levels of in vitro proinflammmatory cytokine production were found in the RBs of most infected patients when compared with healthy controls. Therefore, the rectal mucosa is an important HIV-1 reservoir that demonstrates a discordant viral evolution with respect to blood. Both the virus type and the mucosa pathway of immunoactive substances might have important implications for therapeutic decision-making and monitoring and could influence the bidirectional transmission of HIV-1 in mucosal surfaces.
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Maggi P, Larocca AM, Ladisa N, Carbonara S, Brandonisio O, Angarano G, Pastore G. Opportunistic parasitic infections of the intestinal tract in the era of highly active antiretroviral therapy: is the CD4(+) count so important? Clin Infect Dis 2001; 33:1609-11. [PMID: 11588705 DOI: 10.1086/323017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
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Pezzotti P, d'Arminio Monforte A, Bugarini R, Rezza G, Arici C, Angarano G, Borderi M, Alberici F, Armignacco O, Menichetti F, Prestileo T, Sighinolfi L, Sinicco A, Resta F, Vigevani M, Ippolito G. Antiretroviral therapy in HIV-infected individuals in clinical practice: are the criteria for initiating and choosing the type of drug regimen based only on immunologic and virologic values? Eur J Epidemiol 2001; 16:919-26. [PMID: 11338123 DOI: 10.1023/a:1011054418761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine factors associated with beginning antiretroviral therapy and with the number of drugs used. METHODS Longitudinal study of 3169 HIV-infected individuals naïve from antiretroviral drugs at enrollment in 65 infectious disease clinics in Italy. Initiation of antiretroviral therapy and number of drugs used (i.e., < 3 vs. > or = 3 drugs) were the main outcome measures. Adjusted odds ratios were calculated by logistic models to establish cofactors of these two measures. RESULTS From January 1997 to December 1998, 1288 (40.6%) individuals started therapy, 58.0% of whom were given a triple combination regimen. This regimen became more frequent over time. By multivariate analysis, high levels of HIV-RNA and low CD4 counts were the most important independent predictors of starting any type of therapy. A significant association was also found with HIV exposure category, reason for being antiretroviral-naïve, presence/absence of liver disease, presence/absence of a new AIDS-defining disease, and clinical centre. High levels of HIV-RNA and low CD4 counts were also the most important predictors of starting with > or = 3 drugs, compared to < 3 drugs, and men had an independent higher probability of starting with > or = 3 drugs, compared to women. The probability of starting with > or = 3 drugs significantly increased with calendar time. CONCLUSIONS CD4 and HIV-RNA were the main cofactors of initiating both any type of therapy and therapy with > or = 3 drugs. The large variability among clinical centres suggests that clinicians are uncertain as to the exact timing of beginning therapy and the specific regimen, especially among women.
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Perno CF, Cozzi-Lepri A, Balotta C, Forbici F, Violin M, Bertoli A, Facchi G, Pezzotti P, Cadeo G, Tositti G, Pasquinucci S, Pauluzzi S, Scalzini A, Salassa B, Vincenti A, Phillips AN, Dianzani F, Appice A, Angarano G, Monno L, Ippolito G, Moroni M, d' Arminio Monforte A. Secondary mutations in the protease region of human immunodeficiency virus and virologic failure in drug-naive patients treated with protease inhibitor-based therapy. J Infect Dis 2001; 184:983-91. [PMID: 11574912 DOI: 10.1086/323604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2001] [Revised: 06/21/2001] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of mutations in protease (PR) and reverse-transcriptase (RT) of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in predicting virologic failure was assessed in 248 antiretroviral-naive HIV-positive patients who began a PR inhibitor-containing antiretroviral regimen. Genotypic testing was performed on plasma samples stored before the start of therapy. Twenty-seven patients (10.9%) had mutations in the RT, 5 (2%) carried primary mutations in the PR, and 131 (52.8%) showed only secondary PR mutations. Virologic failure at week 24 occurred in 62 (25.0%) of 248 patients. There was a statistically significant correlation between virologic failure and the number of PR mutations (P= .04, chi(2) test). Mutations at codons 10 and 36 of PR (present in 39.3% and 40.0% of patients in whom treatment failed, respectively) were identified by stepwise logistic regression as the strongest predictors of virologic failure (odds ratio, 2.20; 95% confidence interval, 1.30-3.75; P= .004). If confirmed in independent studies, this result may justify the increased use of HIV genotyping in drug-naive patients requiring antiretroviral therapy.
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Perno CF, Cozzi-Lepri A, Balotta C, Forbici F, Violin M, Bertoli A, Facchi G, Pezzotti P, Angarano G, Arici C, Narciso P, Orani A, Raise E, Scalzini A, Poggio A, Ippolito G, Moroni M, Monforte AD. Impact of mutations conferring reduced susceptibility to lamivudine on the response to antiretroviral therapy. Antivir Ther 2001; 6:195-8. [PMID: 11808755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
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Antonucci G, Girardi E, Raviglione M, Vanacore P, Angarano G, Chirianni A, Pagano G, Suter F, Lauria FN, Ippolito G. Guidelines of tuberculosis preventive therapy for HIV-infected persons: a prospective, multicentre study. GISTA (Gruppo Italiano di Studio Tubercolosi e AIDS). Eur Respir J 2001; 18:369-75. [PMID: 11529298 DOI: 10.1183/09031936.01.00087901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to assess the degree of implementation of national guidelines for isoniazid preventive therapy (IPT) among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected individuals and factors affecting the impact of the programme. Twenty-eight infectious disease hospital units in Italy participated in this observational, multicentre, prospective cohort study. A number of HIV-infected subjects, (n=1,705) seen for the first time as outpatients, were included in this analysis. Of the subjects considered, 1,215 out of the 1,705 completed purified protein derivative (PPD) screening. Variables independently associated with offering and completion of PPD screening included having acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), higher educational levels and currently receiving therapy. Overall, 103 subjects were identified as candidates for IPT. Of these subjects, five had tuberculosis and 15 had contraindications to IPT. Forty subjects agreed to start IPT, and 29 completed a full-course regimen. The incidence of tuberculosis among IPT candidates who either did not begin or discontinued IPT was 6.1 per 100 person-yrs, while no cases of tuberculosis were observed in subjects completing IPT. Several factors may limit the implementation of an isoniazid preventive therapy programme for human immunodeficiency virus-infected persons. Physicians fail to offer purified protein derivative screening to patients with high degrees of immunodeficiency, and those with a more intense workload seem to pay less attention to this test. The high number of contraindications among patients and their low level of acceptance further affects the impact of isoniazid preventive therapy.
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Carbonara S, Fiorentino G, Serio G, Maggi P, Ingravallo G, Monno L, Bruno F, Coppola S, Pastore G, Angarano G. Response of severe HIV-associated thrombocytopenia to highly active antiretroviral therapy including protease inhibitors. J Infect 2001; 42:251-6. [PMID: 11545567 DOI: 10.1053/jinf.2001.0833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the response of HIV-associated severe thrombocytopenia (STP) to highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) including protease-inhibitors. METHODS In this retrospective study, 15 patients with HIV-associated STP (platelet count < 50 x 10(9)/l mostly antiretroviral experienced (13/15), underwent HAART for at least 6 months (median 21; range 6-41 months) during which the platelet (PLT) count and plasmatic HIV-RNA were monitored. The PLT response was compared to that observed in 19 patients previously treated with zidovudine (AZT) monotherapy. RESULTS HAART induced a significant increase in the PLT count (chi(2)=10.53, P=0.01) within the third month which was sustained up to the sixth month of therapy. No STP relapse was observed among eight PLT responders followed for longer than 6 months (median 27; range 7-41 months). The PLT increase after HAART was similar to that observed with AZT monotherapy, but a greater number of HAART patients were antiretroviral-experienced. HAART determined a PLT response in 10/13 subjects whose thrombocytopenia had not improved after previous AZT monotherapy. After 6 months of HAART, a complete platelet response occurred more frequently in patients with undetectable plasma HIV-RNA levels (P=0.01). CONCLUSIONS HAART induces a sustained PLT response in HIV-associated STP, even in antiretroviral-experienced subjects and in those with AZT-resistant thrombocytopenia. An undetectable plasma HIV viraemia induced by HAART is necessary for STP recovery.
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Perno CF, Cozzi-Lepri A, Balotta C, Forbici F, Violin M, Bertoli A, Facchi G, Pezzotti P, Angarano G, Arici C, Narciso P, Orani A, Raise E, Scalzini A, Poggio A, Ippolito G, Moroni M, Monforte AD, Montroni M, Scalise G, Costantini A, Del Prete MS, Tirelli U, Nasti G, Pastore G, Perulli LM, Suter F, Arici C, Chiodo F, Gritti FM, Colangeli V, Fiorini C, Guerra L, Carosi G, Cadeo GP, Castelli F, Minardi C, Vangi D, Rizzardini G, Migliorino G, Manconi PE, Piano P, Ferraro T, Cosco L, Pizzigallo E, Ricci F, Vigevani GM, Pusterla L, Carnevale G, Pan A, Viganò P, Mena M, Ghinelli F, Sighinolfi L, Leoncini F, Mazzotta F, Ambu S, Lo Caputo S, Angarano G, Grisorio B, Ferrara S, Grima P, Tundo P, Pagano G, Piersantelli N, Alessandrini A, Piscopo R, Toti M, Chigiotti, Soscia F, Tacconi L, Orani A, Castaldo G, Scasso A, Vincenti A, Scalzini A, Alessi F, Moroni M, Lazzarin A, Cargnel A, Milazzo F, Caggese L, Monforte AD, Melzi S, Delfanti F, Carini B, Adriani B, Garavaglia S, Moioli C, Esposito R, Mussini C, Abrescia N, Chirianni A, Perrella O, Piazza M, De Marco M, Montesarchio V, Manzillo E, Nappa S, Cadrobbi P, Scaggiante R, Colomba A, Abbadesse V, Prestileo T, Mancuso S, Filice G, Minoli L, Savino FAP, Maserati R, Pauluzzi S, Baldelli F, Petrelli E, Ciotti A, Alberici F, Sisti M, Menichetti F, Smorfa A, De Stefano C, La Gala A, Zauli T, Ballardini G, Bonazzi L, Ursitti MA, Ciammarughi R, Giordani S, Ortona L, Dianzani F, Ippolito G, Antinori A, Antonucci G, D'Elia S, Narciso P, Petrosillo N, Vullo V, De Luca A, Del Forno A, Zaccarelli M, De Longis P, Ciardi M, D'Offizi G, Palmieri F, Lichter M, Capobianchi MR, Girardi E, Pezzotti P, Rezza G, Mura MS, Mannazzu M, Caramello P, Sinicco A, Soranzo ML, Quaglia S, Sciandra M, Salassa B, Torre D, Basilico C, Poggio A, Bottari G, Raise E, Pasquinucci S, De Lalla F, Tositti G, Resta F, Chimienti A, Lepri AC, Phillips AN. Impact of Mutations Conferring Reduced Susceptibility to Lamivudine on the Response to Antiretroviral Therapy. Antivir Ther 2001. [DOI: 10.1177/135965350100600306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Saracino A, Di Stefano M, Vimercati A, Greco P, Fiore JR, Monno L, Angarano G, Pastore G. Cervicovaginal HIV-1 shedding in pregnant women near delivery. Antivir Ther 2001; 6:79-81. [PMID: 11417765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2023]
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Calabrò ML, Gasperini P, Fiore JR, Barbierato M, Angarano G, Chieco-Bianchi L. Intrafamilial transmission of human herpesvirus 8. J Natl Cancer Inst 2001; 93:154-6. [PMID: 11208891 DOI: 10.1093/jnci/93.2.154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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Favia A, Di Stefano M, Lepera A, Mangiacotti L, Saracino A, Fiore JR, Angarano G, Pastore G. "In vitro" spontaneous production of B-chemokines by endocervical and endometrial short-term bioptic cultures. THE NEW MICROBIOLOGICA 2001; 24:95-8. [PMID: 11209849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Abstract
Several studies indicate that HIV-1 is present in the cervico-vaginal tissues and secretions of infected women representing an important determinant of both sexual and mother-to-child transmission. HIV-1 genital shedding is influenced by various factors; among these, proinflammatory cytokines, in particular the beta/C-C chemokine group (RANTES, MIP-1alpha and MIP-1beta), are known to suppress HIV-1 replication and thus might affect both sexual and vertical transmission. This study aimed to standardize a procedure to measure "in vitro" uterine spontaneous chemokine production by means of short-term cultures of endocervical and endometrial bioptic fragments. In most cases, "in vitro" chemokine production was observed in both fragment cultures. These results further confirm that beta/C-C chemokines exist in the female genital tract and that uterine mucosa actively produces basal levels of these immuno-active substances. This method constitutes a useful approach to evaluate cytokine production and expression in the female genital tract, their influence on HIV-1 expression and infectivity in this site, and their possible role in viral transmission.
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Maggi P, Serio G, Epifani G, Fiorentino G, Saracino A, Fico C, Perilli F, Lillo A, Ferraro S, Gargiulo M, Chirianni A, Angarano G, Regina G, Pastore G. Premature lesions of the carotid vessels in HIV-1-infected patients treated with protease inhibitors. AIDS 2000; 14:F123-8. [PMID: 11101050 DOI: 10.1097/00002030-200011100-00001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 168] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the presence of premature atherosclerotic lesions of epiaortic vessels in HIV-1-infected protease inhibitor-(PI) treated patients compared with PI-naive patients and healthy individuals. DESIGN One-hundred and two HIV-1-positive patients, including 55 treated with PI for at least 12 months and 47 either naive or treated with PI-sparing regimens, were subjected to epiaortic vessel ultrasonography. These data were compared with those obtained from 104 healthy individuals. METHODS Intima characteristics, pulsation and resistance indexes, and minimal, peak and mean speed were evaluated using a colour power doppler. Atherosclerotic plaques were described. Independent risk factors and values for glycaemia, cholesterolaemia and triglyceridaemia were considered. Statistical analysis included the chi-square test, Mantel-Haenszel test, odds ratio and logistic regression analysis. RESULTS Of the PI-treated patients, 29 out of 55 (52.7%) presented acquired lesions of the vascular wall at ultrasonography, whereas similar lesions were found in seven out of 47 (14.9%) PI-naive patients. Of the 104 healthy individuals, seven cases (6.7%) of intimal medial thickness were noted. A slightly significant correlation was found between carotid lesions and age, male sex and hypercholesterolaemia, whereas cigarette smoking, hypertriglyceridaemia and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention stage significantly increased the risk of vascular lesions (P= 0.022, P= 0.017 and P= 0.079 respectively). However, the highest significance regarded use of PI (P= 0.011). These results were confirmed by logistic regression analysis. CONCLUSIONS These data demonstrate a higher than expected prevalence of premature carotid lesions in the PI-treated compared with PI-naive patients. If confirmed, a periodic ultrasonographic study of the vascular wall should be included in the follow-up of HIV infected patients.
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Balotta C, Violin M, Monno L, Bagnarelli P, Riva C, Facchi G, Berlusconi A, Lippi M, Rusconi S, Clementi M, Galli M, Angarano G, Moroni M. Interaction of methadone with didanosine and stavudine. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2000; 24:232-40. [PMID: 10969347 DOI: 10.1097/00126334-200007010-00007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
For opiate-dependent injection drug users infected with HIV, methadone therapy may facilitate adherence to complex highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) regimens. Current HAART regimens include one or more nucleoside analogues. We investigated the effects of methadone on the pharmacokinetics of the tablet formulation of didanosine (ddI) and of stavudine (d4T) in 17 study subjects on stable methadone therapy and in 10 untreated controls. Methadone treatment reduced the measured areas under the time-concentration curve (AUC0-6) by 63% for ddI (p =.04) and by 25% for d4T (p =.005) and the extrapolated AUCs for the full dosing interval (AUC0-12) by 57% for ddI (p =.11) and by 23% for d4T (p =. 02). Peak drug concentrations (Cmax) were reduced by 66% (p =.007) and 44% (p =.001) for ddI and d4T, respectively. The effects on AUC and Cmax appeared to result primarily from decreases in bioavailability. Methadone also delayed drug absorption. Trough levels for methadone did not differ significantly from those in historical controls, suggesting that ddI and d4T did not substantially alter methadone disposition. The results suggest that larger doses of the tablet formulation or an alternate formulation may be needed when didanosine is given to study subjects treated with methadone.
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Maggi P, de Mari M, Moramarco A, Fiorentino G, Lamberti P, Angarano G. Parkinsonism in a patient with AIDS and cerebral opportunistic granulomatous lesions. Neurol Sci 2000; 21:173-6. [PMID: 11076006 DOI: 10.1007/s100720070093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
The localization of opportunistic infections in the basal ganglia in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) can cause movement disorders, such as choreoathetosis, dystonia, hemiballism and, more rarely, parkinsonism. We describe the case of an AIDS patient who developed cerebral opportunistic granulomatous lesions and, subsequently, a parkinsonian akinetic-rigid syndrome. In agreement with cases reported in the literature, the parkinsonian syndrome developed only when the lesions bilaterally involved basal ganglia. The critical localization of the opportunistic lesions in the direct and indirect strio-pallidal pathways possibly associated with the HIV-related neurotoxicity might have contributed to determine this clinical picture.
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Monno L, Appice A, Scarabaggio T, Di Stefano M, Pastore G, Angarano G. Mutations in the reverse transcriptase gene of HIV type 1 from subjects after stavudine-didanosine dual therapy. AIDS Res Hum Retroviruses 2000; 16:821-3. [PMID: 10826489 DOI: 10.1089/088922200308828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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Vimercati A, Greco P, Lopalco PL, Loverro G, Fiore JR, Bettocchi S, Angarano G, Selvaggi L. Immunological markers in HIV-infected pregnant and non-pregnant women. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2000; 90:37-41. [PMID: 10767508 DOI: 10.1016/s0301-2115(99)00228-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the influence of pregnancy on the course of HIV infection by comparing the behaviour of total lymphocyte counts and lymphocyte subsets (CD4(+) and CD8(+) and their ratio) in a cohort of infected pregnant women. SETTING Tertiary referral centre for high risk obstetrics and infectious diseases in pregnancy. PATIENTS AND METHODS A prospective study was designed, HIV infected women being enrolled at the beginning of pregnancy and sampled each trimester and in the puerperium. As controls, a group of non-pregnant HIV-infected women, cross-matched for age, risk factors and stage of disease were included and similarly evaluated in the same period. RESULTS All the parameters, when longitudinally evaluated, were stable during gestation. Compared with non-pregnant subjects, patients had higher CD4(+) counts at the beginning and increased values of total lymphocytes count and subsets during the puerperium. Antepartum and postpartum risk factors such as drug abuse, smoking, antiretroviral therapy, length of gestation, maternal complications and HIV status of the neonate were not influential on the total lymphocytes counts and subsets. DISCUSSION According to this data, pregnancy per se seems to have a negligible influence over the course of HIV infection, at least as far as immune parameters are concerned.
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Carbonara S, Tortoli E, Costa D, Monno L, Fiorentino G, Grimaldi A, Boscia D, Rollo MA, Pastore G, Angarano G. Disseminated Mycobacterium terrae infection in a patient with advanced human immunodeficiency virus disease. Clin Infect Dis 2000; 30:831-5. [PMID: 10816157 DOI: 10.1086/313773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Mycobacterium terrae has been rarely implicated in human disease and never in patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). We describe an HIV-infected patient with disseminated infection by M. terrae with pulmonary and cutaneous clinical manifestations. M. terrae was isolated from both sputum and urine, and identified by both conventional tests and high-performance liquid chromatography. Clinical and microbiological characteristics of this case are compared with those reported in the literature.
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d'Arminio Monforte A, Lepri AC, Rezza G, Pezzotti P, Antinori A, Phillips AN, Angarano G, Colangeli V, De Luca A, Ippolito G, Caggese L, Soscia F, Filice G, Gritti F, Narciso P, Tirelli U, Moroni M. Insights into the reasons for discontinuation of the first highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) regimen in a cohort of antiretroviral naïve patients. I.CO.N.A. Study Group. Italian Cohort of Antiretroviral-Naïve Patients. AIDS 2000; 14:499-507. [PMID: 10780712 DOI: 10.1097/00002030-200003310-00005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 401] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the frequency of discontinuation of the first highly active antiretroviral regimen (HAART) and the factors predictive of discontinuing for toxicity and failure in a population-based cohort of HIV-positive individuals in Italy, naïve from antiretrovirals at enrolment. METHODS The study population consisted of individuals who initiated HAART and had at least one follow-up visit. The primary end-points were discontinuation of any component of HAART for drug toxicity and discontinuation for failure. Survival analyses were performed to identify predictive factors for reaching the two end-points. RESULTS Eight hundred and sixty-two individuals initiated HAART; in 727 of them (84.3%) this consisted of two nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTI) and one protease inhibitor (PI). Over a median follow-up of 45 weeks, 312 patients (36.2%) discontinued therapy: 182 (21.1%) discontinued due to toxicity, 44 (5.1%) due to failure. The probability of discontinuing HAART at 1 year was 25.5% [95% confidence interval (CI), 21.9-28.9] due to toxicity and 7.6% (95% CI, 4.9-1 0.3) due to failure. Independent factors associated with discontinuation for toxicity were: gender [relative hazard (RH) = 0.51; 95% CI, 0.32-0.80 for men versus women], type of treatment (indinavir-containing regimens, RH = 1.94; 95% CI, 1.10-3.41 and ritonavir-containing regimens, RH = 3.83; 95% CI, 2.09-7.03 versus hard-gell saquinavir) and time spent on treatment (RH = 0.89; 95% CI, 0.80-0.98 for each additional month). Discontinuation due to failure was independently associated with the most recent HIV-RNA (RH = 3.20; 95% CI, 1.74-5.88 for log10 copies/ml higher), and with type of treatment (indinavir-containing regimens, RH = 0.21; 95% CI, 0.06-0.78 and ritonavir-containing regimens, RH = 0.23; 95% CI, 0.04-1.26 versus hard-gell saquinavir). CONCLUSIONS If the current HAART regimen caused no toxicity, less than 10% of naïve patients discontinue their first HAART regimen because of failure after 1 year from starting therapy.
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Monno L, Cargnel A, Soranzo ML, Chirianni A, Ferraro T, Di Stefano M, Angarano G. Comparison of once and twice daily dosing of didanosine in combination with stavudine for the treatment of HIV-1 infection. AI 454-146 Team. Antivir Ther 2000; 4:195-202. [PMID: 10723498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the antiviral activity, safety and tolerability of didanosine dosed once and twice daily when administered in combination with stavudine dosed twice daily in human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1)-infected individuals with little or no previous exposure to antiretroviral drugs. DESIGN Comparative, multicentre, randomized, open-label, short-term study. PATIENTS AND METHODS Eighty-four HIV-1-infected adults with qualifying baseline CD4 cell counts of 200 to 500 cells/mm3 were included in the study. Of these, 43 patients received once daily didanosine plus twice daily stavudine (group A) and 41 subjects received twice daily didanosine plus twice daily stavudine (group B). The primary efficacy analysis used was the time-averaged difference (TAD) between treatment regimens of variations in plasma HIV-1 RNA levels from baseline over the first 12 weeks of therapy. Plasma HIV-1 RNA levels, CD4 cell counts and adverse events were monitored. RESULTS At week 12, median HIV-1 RNA variations were -1.18 log10 copies/ml in group A and -0.88 log10 copies/ml in group B. For patients who were followed up to week 24, median variations of HIV-1 RNA levels from baseline were -1.21 log10 copies/ml in group A and -0.78 log10 copies/ml in group B. The TAD between the two treatment groups for variations from baseline plasma HIV-1 RNA levels over the first 12 weeks was 0.10 log10 copies/ml (95% confidence interval, -0.19 to 0.40), indicating equivalence. CONCLUSION Once daily didanosine plus twice daily stavudine and twice daily didanosine plus twice daily stavudine are equally effective in reducing plasma HIV-1 RNA levels and increasing CD4 cell counts. Both regimens are safe and well tolerated.
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Maggi P, Larocca AM, Quarto M, Serio G, Brandonisio O, Angarano G, Pastore G. Effect of antiretroviral therapy on cryptosporidiosis and microsporidiosis in patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus type 1. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2000; 19:213-7. [PMID: 10795595 DOI: 10.1007/s100960050461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
To better understand whether potent antiretroviral therapies can modify the natural history of HIV-1-associated microsporidiosis and cryptosporidiosis, the response to antimicrobial treatment of these opportunistic infections was evaluated in patients with or without antiretroviral treatment. Fifty patients with diarrhoea, all positive for Cryptosporidium parvum or Enterocytozoon bieneusi, were included in the study. Retrospective data were collected concerning demographics, clinical and microbiological characteristics of the parasitic infection, antiretroviral therapy and prophylaxis against opportunistic infections. Faecal samples were prepared using the Richie formalin-ethyl acetate method and stained using the modified Ziehl-Neelsen method for detection of Cryptosporidium parvum and Isospora belli, the modified trichrome and calcofluor white technique for detection of Enterocytozoon spp., and iodine for detection of ova, cysts or vegetative forms. Diarrhoea was defined as an abnormal increase in stool liquidity, an abnormal increase in stool frequency and a daily stool weight of more than 250 g for a period of at least 4 days. Patients treated with double antiretroviral therapy or protease inhibitors demonstrated an excellent response and a sustained therapeutic effect after follow-up (range, 5-36 months). The relapse of cryptosporidiosis in two patients who discontinued antiretroviral therapy suggests that the infection might remain in a latent stage. The resolution of the diarrhoea seems to be related to an increased CD4+ cell count rather than to the viral load. In conclusion, these data strongly support the hypothesis that combination antiretroviral therapy is able to greatly modify the course of cryptosporidiosis and microsporidiosis in patients infected with HIV-1.
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Maggi P, Caputi-Iambrenghi O, Scardigno A, Scoppetta L, Saracino A, Valente M, Pastore G, Angarano G. Gastrointestinal infection due to Anisakis simplex in southern Italy. Eur J Epidemiol 2000; 16:75-8. [PMID: 10780346 DOI: 10.1023/a:1007617002972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
The authors present four cases of infection due to Anisakis in an area where people are prone to infectious diseases transmitted by raw fish, but in which the presence of this parasite has never been reported. Three of four cases were discovered accidently during surgical procedures for co-existing abdominal pathologies. Raw fish was apparently not involved in all patients. Characteristics of the patients are discussed.
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Saracino A, Di Stefano M, Fiore JR, Lepera A, Raimondi D, Angarano G, Pastore G. Frequent detection of HIV-1 RNA but low rates of HIV-1 isolation in cervicovaginal secretions from infected women. THE NEW MICROBIOLOGICA 2000; 23:79-83. [PMID: 10946409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
Information regarding the presence of HIV-1 in the female genital tract is necessary to gain insight into the mechanism of HIV-1 heterosexual transmission. Herein, we present the results of a study on virus isolation and HIV-1 RNA detection from cervicovaginal lavage (CVL) samples from 25 HIV-1 seropositive women. Despite detectable levels of HIV-1 RNA in 88% of CVL samples, HIV-1 was isolated in only four (19%) samples. Although HIV-1 shedding in cervicovaginal secretions is a common event at all disease stages, the recovery of infectious virus in cell cultures appears to be rare; this renders viral isolation in studies aimed to evaluate the infectivity of cervicovaginal secretions relatively useless.
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Fiore JR, Laddago V, Lepera A, La Grasta L, Di Stefano M, Saracino A, Lopalco P, Pastore G, Angarano G. Limited secretory-IgA response in cervicovaginal secretions from HIV-1 infected, but not high risk seronegative women: lack of correlation to genital viral shedding. THE NEW MICROBIOLOGICA 2000; 23:85-92. [PMID: 10946410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
The presence and antigen specificity of IgG and secretory-IgA (s-IgA) to HIV-1 were evaluated in cervicovaginal lavages (CVL) from 26 infected and 10 high-risk seronegative women. All the seropositive women had detectable IgG recognizing several viral antigens, while a smaller percentage of women demonstrated s-IgA to the virus. In addition, s-IgA were of limited specificity and provided weak reactivities on Immunoblot bands; an almost constant absence of s-IgA to gp120 was also observed. Neither the presence nor the specificity of either IgG or s-IgA to the virus in CVL prevented the shedding of HIV-1 in this body fluid; in fact, viral RNA was detected in all the women studied and the amounts of viral shedding was unrelated to the genital antibody response. On the other hand, none of the high-risk seronegative women had detectable antibodies to HIV-1 in CVL of either the IgG or s-IgA isotype. Our results a) confirm an impairment of mucosal antibody response during HIV-1 infection and suggest that mucosal immunity is not able to prevent viral shedding in the female genital tract and thus cannot modulate the infectivity of genital secretions; aa) do not provide evidence for a mucosal "memory/protective" antibody response in the genital tract of high-risk seronegative women.
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Angarano G, Monno L. Genotype and phenotype resistance: an overview. J BIOL REG HOMEOS AG 2000; 14:11-4. [PMID: 10763885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
Drug resistance is a major factor contributing to the failure of antiretroviral therapy. The rapid turnover of the human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) and the error-prone reverse transcriptase both contribute to the extensive emergence of resistant variants. The understanding of resistance and cross-resistance patterns is essential for the appropriate selection of treatment regimens for HIV-infected individuals. Although genotypic and phenotypic assays of drug resistance are not currently recommended for routine use, preliminary data has emphasized the role of resistance testing in guiding the choice of initial antiretroviral therapy, in explaining reasons for failure, and in selecting subsequent therapy for patients failing their current regimen. This article reviews the advantages and disadvantages of currently available resistance assays, as well as mechanisms and patterns of resistance and cross-resistance.
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Brandonisio O, Maggi P, Panaro MA, Lisi S, Andriola A, Acquafredda A, Angarano G. Intestinal protozoa in HIV-infected patients in Apulia, South Italy. Epidemiol Infect 1999; 123:457-62. [PMID: 10694157 PMCID: PMC2810780 DOI: 10.1017/s0950268899003015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Protozoa are important enteric pathogens in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. In this study the prevalence of intestinal protozoa in 154 HIV-infected patients, with or without diarrhoea, in our region (Apulia, South Italy) was evaluated between December 1993 and February 1998. In the majority of patients CD4+ T cell count was below 200/microl. The overall prevalence of intestinal protozoa was 43/154 (27.92%). Twenty-eight (43.08%) out of 65 patients with diarrhoea and 15 (16-85%) out of 89 non-diarrhoeic patients were parasitized. In particular, in the group of 65 patients with diarrhoea the following protozoa were identified: Cryptosporidium parvum in 14 (21.54%), Blastocystis hominis in 7 (10.77%), microsporidia in 6 (9.23%), Giardia lamblia in 4 (6.15%) and Isospora belli in 1 (1.54%). Three patients were Cryptosporidium parvum-microsporidia co-infected. In patients without intestinal symptoms, prevalence was 3/89 (3.37%) for Cryptosporidium parvum, 9/89 (10.11%) for Blastocystis hominis, 1/89 (1.12%) for microsporidia and 2/89 (2.25%) for Giardia lamblia. A significant (P<0.001) correlation was observed between protozoan infection and the presence of diarrhoea. In particular, Cryptosporidium parvum and microsporidia infections were significantly (P<0.001) and P = 0.046, respectively) associated with diarrhoeal illness. Moreover, the majority of cases of cryptosporidiosis were first diagnosed in the periods of heaviest rainfall. Therefore, drinking water contamination may be a possible source of human infection in our area.
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Lyles CM, Dorrucci M, Vlahov D, Pezzotti P, Angarano G, Sinicco A, Alberici F, Alcorn TM, Vella S, Rezza G. Longitudinal human immunodeficiency virus type 1 load in the italian seroconversion study: correlates and temporal trends of virus load. J Infect Dis 1999; 180:1018-24. [PMID: 10479126 DOI: 10.1086/314980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
A prospective study of 149 human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) seroconverters was conducted to describe trends and correlates of HIV-1 load after seroconversion and over time. HIV-1 load was quantified from frozen sera by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. High early virus load was associated with lower CD4 cell counts and male sex but not with age at seroconversion or injection drug use. Early virus load predicted progression to clinical AIDS and AIDS/<200 CD4 cells/microL. Virus load exhibited a decline of 52% by 18 months after seroconversion then increased 23% annually (95% confidence interval, 13%-33%). Men and those developing AIDS during follow-up had higher virus loads over the course of disease. Persons who developed AIDS had a steeper virus load slope than those who were AIDS-free (P=.01). In long-term follow-up, virus load exhibited a gradual and sustained increase over time. Virus load and annual increase are strong predictors of disease progression.
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Favia A, Di Stefano M, Fiore JR, Pastore G, Angarano G. Phenotypic patterns of HIV-1 clonal populations during highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). THE NEW MICROBIOLOGICA 1999; 22:301-7. [PMID: 10555199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/14/2023]
Abstract
Several studies have demonstrated that during HIV-1 infection many different viral clones may co-exist in the same individual. These clones may differ regarding their biological phenotype and may influence both the natural history of infection and the clinical response to antiretroviral therapy. The aim of the present study was to investigate the influences of combination therapies including protease inhibitors (HAART) on the phenotypical pattern of HIV-1 biological clones in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Viral isolation and biological characterisation of bulk isolates and clonal viral isolates were performed on two AIDS patients, before and after three months of antiretroviral therapy. A decrease of viral load in plasma specimens in association with a change of clonal composition during antiretroviral therapy was observed in both patients during treatment. Before therapy both of the patients had a syncytium inducing (SI) bulk isolate and the majority of the biological clones were characterised as SI. After treatment, the bulk isolates were still SI in both cases, but the majority of biological clones were characterised as non-syncytium inducing (NSI). These results suggest that HIV clonal composition and relative phenotypic pattern undergo different changes not only during the natural course of HIV infection but also while patients are on antiretroviral combination therapy.
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Greco P, Vimercati A, Fiore JR, Saracino A, Buccoliero G, Loverro G, Angarano G, Pastore G, Selvaggi L. Reproductive choice in individuals HIV-1 infected in south eastern Italy. J Perinat Med 1999; 27:173-7. [PMID: 10503177 DOI: 10.1515/jpm.1999.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the impact of counseling on reproductive choices in seropositive women in South-Eastern Italy. SETTING University Hospital, Apulia region, South-Eastern Italy, tertiary referral center for high risk obstetrics and infectious diseases. METHODS Between March 1985 and December 1996, two hundred and twenty-five HIV-infected women, receiving treatment at our clinic for infectious diseases were enrolled. They were all regularly given treatment and counseling and their sexual partners, if negative, tested for HIV-1 antibodies. Their reproductive choices and their attitude toward pregnancy were recorded and analyzed. RESULTS Seventy-six pregnancies were observed during this period in 76 women. Twenty-one of these women (27.7%) decided to terminate the pregnancy. Women that were intravenous drug users or with a longer history of known seropositivity were more likely to have a termination. A decreasing trend in the request of abortion was observed with time. CONCLUSIONS The data show that the scenario of HIV-infected women is changing in our setting. As a consequence, many seropositive women deliberately choose to have a pregnancy and factors different from those we expect to be modified by the counseling influence their reproductive choice. They should be taken into account in the management of these women before and during pregnancy.
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Fiore JR, Buccoliero G, Pezzotti P, Rezza G, Saracino A, Pastore G, Fenyo EM, Angarano G. HIV-1 disease progression in women: role of the viral phenotype of the HIV-positive steady partner. AIDS 1999; 13:1801-2. [PMID: 10509595 DOI: 10.1097/00002030-199909100-00037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Monno L, Zimatore GB, Di Stefano M, Appice A, Livrea P, Angarano G. Reduced concentrations of HIV-RNA and TNF-alpha coexist in CSF of AIDS patients with progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 1999; 67:369-73. [PMID: 10449561 PMCID: PMC1736519 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp.67.3.369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To confirm reduced human immunodeficiency virus type-1 (HIV-1) burden in the CSF of patients with progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) and to verify whether this viral load coincides with the absence of inflammatory changes in the CSF. METHODS Paired CSF and plasma samples from 17 patients with PML, 26 with non-PML cerebral opportunistic infections, nine with HIV-1 leukoencephalopathy (HIVE), and 12 neurologically asymptomatic AIDS patients were subjected to HIV-RNA titration. Tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha was also measured and the CSF albumin: serum albumin ratio (Q(Alb)) was calculated. RESULTS The CSF HIV-1 burden of patients with PML did not differ from that of neurologically asymptomatic patients (p=0.21), but was significantly lower than CSF burden of the remaining patients (non-PML opportunistic infections, p<0.001; HIVE, p<0.001). Q(Alb) was normal for all neurologically asymptomatic patients, for 86.6% patients with PML, and 62.5% patients with HIVE (p=0.09). Q(Alb) was altered in 91.6% patients with non-PML opportunistic infections. TNF-alpha in CSF was higher in patients with non-PML opportunistic infections (p<0.001) and those with HIVE (p<0.001) than in patients with PML who consistently had TNF-alpha concentrations<10 pg/ml. CONCLUSIONS These results, while indicating a reduced HIV replication in CSF of patients with PML which might serve as a disease marker, emphasise the increased CSF HIV-RNA concentration in patients with HIVE and patients with non-PML opportunistic infections. Low concentrations of HIV-RNA in CSF coincide with reduced TNF-alpha concentrations, possibly due to particular features of PML compared with other opportunistic infections as it develops without detectable inflammatory changes in the CSF.
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Monno L, Appice A, Cavaliere R, Scarabaggio T, Angarano G. Highly active antiretroviral therapy failure and protease and reverse transcriptase human immunodeficiency virus type 1 gene mutations. J Infect Dis 1999; 180:568-71. [PMID: 10395885 DOI: 10.1086/314909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
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Fiore JR, Di Stefano M, Lepera A, Saracino A, Monno L, Angarano G, Pastore G. Evidence for a local synthesis of beta-chemokines within the genital tract of both HIV-1-infected and uninfected women. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 1999; 21:255-7. [PMID: 10421252 DOI: 10.1097/00126334-199907010-00013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Angarano G. Coming therapies: adefovir. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CLINICAL PRACTICE. SUPPLEMENT 1999; 103:39-41. [PMID: 10622043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
Adefovir dipivoxil, an acyclic nucleotide phosphonate analogue, demonstrates a potent and sustained antiviral activity. Its long half-life allows once daily administration and due to the observed reduction in L-carnitine plasma levels, supplementation with L-carnitine is required. Clinical evidence indicates adefovir dipivoxil can be used as first-line therapy. In addition, due to the sensitivity of drug resistant strains to adefovir dipivoxil, it also has a role in second-line or multi-drug salvage regimens. Adefovir dipivoxil is safe and well tolerated for only short periods of treatment.
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Carbonara S, Ingravallo G, Fiorentino G, Monno L, Pastore G, Angarano G. Efficacy of protease inhibitor-based anti-retroviral therapy in severe HIV-associated thrombocytopenia unresponsive to AZT. Br J Haematol 1999; 105:1147-9. [PMID: 10554838 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2141.1999.01533.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Calabrò ML, Fiore JR, Favero A, Lepera A, Saracino A, Angarano G, Schulz TF, Chieco-Bianchi L. Detection of human herpesvirus 8 in cervicovaginal secretions and seroprevalence in human immunodeficiency virus type 1-seropositive and -seronegative women. J Infect Dis 1999; 179:1534-7. [PMID: 10228077 DOI: 10.1086/314765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Epidemiologic studies suggest that human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8) may be sexually transmitted. To study the potential for HHV-8 transmission through cervicovaginal (CV) secretions, the presence of HHV-8 DNA was investigated by nested polymerase chain reaction in the cellular fraction of CV secretions from 36 human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1)-seropositive and 29 HIV-1-seronegative women. The same patients were tested for antibodies to two defined HHV-8 antigens (latency-associated nuclear antigen and open-reading frame 65-encoded structural protein) and for HHV-8 DNA in their peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). The findings were compared with the rate of HHV-8 detection in semen samples of 20 HIV-1-infected men. HHV-8 DNA was detected in the CV samples from only 1 HHV-8-seropositive AIDS patient, in 3 PBMC samples (1/29 HIV-1-seronegative patients, 1/3 AIDS patients with Kaposi's sarcoma, and 1/19 AIDS patients), and in 1 of 20 semen samples. HHV-8 infection was more common in HIV-1-infected than uninfected women. Thus HHV-8 DNA is only rarely detectable in CV secretions and semen of HHV-8-infected individuals.
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Di Stefano M, Fiore JR, Monno L, Lepera A, Pastore G, Angarano G. Detection of multiple drug-resistance-associated pol mutations in cervicovaginal secretions from women largely treated with antiretroviral agents. AIDS 1999; 13:992-4. [PMID: 10371183 DOI: 10.1097/00002030-199905280-00018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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88
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Fiore JR, Lepera A, Di Stefano M, Saracino A, Favia A, Pastore G, Angarano G. Frequent cervicovaginal shedding of HIV-1 in asymptomatic, non-severely immunodeficient women. AIDS 1999; 13:626-7. [PMID: 10203392 DOI: 10.1097/00002030-199904010-00016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Angarano G, Monno L. Clinical aspects of antiretroviral resistance. J BIOL REG HOMEOS AG 1998; 12:28-31. [PMID: 9689576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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90
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Torre D, Casari S, Speranza F, Donisi A, Gregis G, Poggio A, Ranieri S, Orani A, Angarano G, Chiodo F, Fiori G, Carosi G. Randomized trial of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole versus pyrimethamine-sulfadiazine for therapy of toxoplasmic encephalitis in patients with AIDS. Italian Collaborative Study Group. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 1998; 42:1346-9. [PMID: 9624473 PMCID: PMC105601 DOI: 10.1128/aac.42.6.1346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present pilot study was to compare the efficacy and safety of trimethoprim (TMP) and sulfamethoxazole (SMX) with those of the standard therapy pyrimethamine (P)-sulfadiazine (S) for the treatment of toxoplasmic encephalitis in patients with AIDS. This was a pilot, multicenter, randomized, and prospective study. Patients were randomly assigned to receive TMP (10 mg/kg of body weight/day) and SMX (50 mg/kg/day) or P (50 mg daily) and S (60 mg/kg/day) as acute therapy (for 4 weeks) and then as maintenance therapy for 3 months at half of the original dosage. Seventy-seven patients were enrolled and randomized to the study: 40 patients were treated with TMP-SMX and 37 were treated with P-S. There was no statistically significant difference in clinical efficacy during acute therapy. In contrast, patients randomized to TMP-SMX appeared more likely to achieve a complete radiologic response after acute therapy. Adverse reactions were significantly more frequent in patients treated with P-S, and skin rash was the most common adverse event noted in these patients. In conclusion, the results of the study suggest that TMP-SMX appears to be a valuable alternative to P-S, in particular in patients with opportunistic bacterial infections.
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Di Stefano M, Monno L, Fiore JR, Buccoliero G, Appice A, Perulli LM, Pastore G, Angarano G. Neurological disorders during HIV-1 infection correlate with viral load in cerebrospinal fluid but not with virus phenotype. AIDS 1998; 12:737-43. [PMID: 9619805 DOI: 10.1097/00002030-199807000-00010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To verify the compartmentalization of HIV-1 within the central nervous system (CNS) and to define whether viral phenotype of HIV-1 isolates from cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples and CSF viral load correlate with the presence and type of neurological disorders. METHODS A total of 33 HIV-1-infected patients with and without neurological disorders were included in the study. HIV-1 isolation from paired CSF and peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) samples was attempted by a standard cocultivation technique; the biological phenotype of HIV-1 isolates was assessed by the MT-2 cell assay. CSF and plasma HIV-RNA levels were measured by a quantitative reverse transcripase-polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS The rate of HIV-1 isolation from CSF and PBMC was 66% (22 isolates) and 85% (28 isolates), respectively. Seventeen out of 22 (77%) CSF HIV-1 isolates were characterized as non-syncytium-inducing, and 15 out of 28 (68%) isolates from PBMC were typed as syncytium-inducing (SI). The presence of SI isolates in CSF was limited to patients with HIV-1-, cytomegalovirus- or JC virus-related disorders and was often associated with high levels of HIV-1 RNA in the CSF. DISCUSSION Our results demonstrate a correlation between high levels of HIV RNA in CSF and the presence of neurological disorders thus indicating a possible role for HIV-1 RNA in the CSF as a biological marker of neurological disease. The finding of viruses with a different phenotype in paired CSF and PBMC indicates that HIV-1 may evolve differently in the brain and in the blood. This suggests compartmentalization of HIV-1 within the CNS.
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Angarano G, Maggi P, Coppola SL, Cavaliere RL. Itraconazole as maintenance therapy for visceral leishmaniasis in HIV-infected patients. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 1998; 17:365-7. [PMID: 9721971 DOI: 10.1007/bf01709465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Monno L, Di Stefano M, Zimatore GB, Andreula CF, Appice A, Perulli LM, Fiore JR, Pastore G, Angarano G. Measurement of viral sequences in cerebrospinal fluid of AIDS patients with cerebral white-matter lesions using polymerase chain reaction. AIDS 1998; 12:581-90. [PMID: 9583597 DOI: 10.1097/00002030-199806000-00006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To optimize the use of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for the evaluation of central nervous system (CNS) white-matter lesions that along with clinical findings and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can allow a definite diagnosis to be made; also to evaluate treatment with zidovudine plus foscarnet. DESIGN AND METHODS Fifteen AIDS patients with uncertain CNS white-matter lesions were identified. HIV-1 RNA, cytomegalovirus (CMV) and JC virus (JCV) DNA were measured in a total of 29 CSF samples. The results were correlated with clinical and MRI findings and treatment with zidovudine plus foscarnet was evaluated. RESULTS Four and five out of 15 patients with CMV DNA > or = 1 : 625 and JCV DNA > or = 10(3) copies/microl detected in the CSF were diagnosed with CMV and progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), respectively. Six patients who were CMV/JCV-negative with the highest levels of HIV RNA (median, 6.87 log10 copies/ml) in CSF were considered as having HIV-1 encephalitis. Neurological symptoms were non-supportive for diagnosis as was MRI in 11 out of 15 patients. Nine patients completed a 21-day course of zidovudine plus foscarnet. HIV RNA decreased irrespective of neurological diagnosis. All three HIV-1 encephalitis patients and two out of three patients with CMV leukoencephalopathy improved. In these two latter patients, relief of clinical symptoms coincided with decreased CMV DNA. JCV DNA remained unchanged and all three PML patients deteriorated. CONCLUSIONS Measurement of CSF viral sequences supports the diagnosis of CNS white-matter lesions in AIDS patients. While effective therapy for PML remains elusive, treatment including zidovudine plus foscarnet may be a promising option for HIV-1 and CMV-related manifestations.
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Angarano G, Carbonara S, Costa D, Gori A. Drug-resistant tuberculosis in human immunodeficiency virus infected persons in Italy. The Italian Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis Study Group. Int J Tuberc Lung Dis 1998; 2:303-11. [PMID: 9559401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the prevalence and epidemiological-clinical characteristics of tuberculosis (TB) resistance to first-line drugs in Italian human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected subjects. DESIGN Prospective, observational multicenter (25 Centers of Infectious Diseases) study. Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains from 167 HIV co-infected subjects with TB (149 new cases, 18 relapses) were tested at a central laboratory for susceptibility to rifampin (R), isoniazid (H), pyrazinamide (Z), ethambutol (E) and streptomycin (S) and for DNA fingerprint type. Drug susceptibility results were related to patients' epidemiological, clinical and laboratory features. RESULTS Drug resistance patterns among new TB cases were as follows: R = 1%, Z = 6%, S = 8%, H + S = 3%, S + Z = 4%. TB resistant to at least R + H (MDR-TB) was detected in 36% of new cases due to an MDR-TB outbreak which was the largest thus far in Europe, involving 7/25 participating institutions, and was demonstrated by conventional and molecular epidemiology evidence. With multivariate analysis, MDR-TB was associated with hospital exposure to MDR-TB (OR = 39.3, P < 0.001) and previous use of anti-TB drugs (OR = 9.8, P = 0.008). CONCLUSION As drug-resistant tuberculosis in Italy is thus far relatively scarce, detection of a large MDR-TB epidemic among HIV-infected subjects was alarming. Aggressive control measures are urgently needed to prevent the spread of MDR-TB throughout the country and among the general population.
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Simone IL, Federico F, Tortorella C, Andreula CF, Zimatore GB, Giannini P, Angarano G, Lucivero V, Picciola P, Carrara D, Bellacosa A, Livrea P. Localised 1H-MR spectroscopy for metabolic characterisation of diffuse and focal brain lesions in patients infected with HIV. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 1998; 64:516-23. [PMID: 9576546 PMCID: PMC2170064 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp.64.4.516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the role of proton MR spectroscopy (1H-MRS) in detecting metabolic changes in diffuse or focal lesions in the brain of patients infected with HIV. METHODS Sixty HIV seropositive patients (25 with HIV related encephalopathies, 20 with toxoplasmosis, eight with progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathies (PMLs), and seven with lymphomas) and 22 HIV seronegative neurological controls were examined with a combined MRI and 1H-MRS technique using a Siemens 1.5 Tesla Magnetom. Spectra (Spin Echo sequence, TE 135 ms) were acquired by single voxel, localised on focal lesions in toxoplasmosis, PML, lymphomas, and HIV encephalopathies and on the centrum semiovale of neurological controls. Choline (Cho), creatine (Cr), N-acetyl aspartate (NAA), lactate, and lipids were evaluated in each spectrum and NAA/Cr, NAA/Cho, and Cho/Cr ratios were calculated. RESULTS A significant decrease in NAA/Cr and NAA/Cho ratios were found in all HIV diagnostic groups in comparison with neurological controls (p<0.003), suggesting neuronal or axonal damage independent of brain lesion aetiology. However, the NAA/Cr ratio was significantly lower in PML and lymphomas than in HIV encephalopathies (p<0.02) and toxoplasmosis (p<0.05). HIV encephalopathies, lymphomas, and toxoplasmosis showed a significant increase in the Cho/Cr ratio in comparison with neurological controls (p<0.03) without between group differences. The presence of a lipid signal was more frequent in lymphomas (71%) than in other HIV groups (Fisher's test, p=0.00003). The presence of mobile lipid resonance together with a high Cho/Cr ratio in lymphomas may be related to an increased membrane synthesis and turnover in tumour cells. A lactate signal (marker of inflammatory reaction), was found in all but one patient with PML lesions (75%), but had a lower incidence in the other HIV diagnostic groups (Fisher's test, p=0.00024). CONCLUSION 1H-MRS shows a high sensitivity in detecting brain involvement in HIV related diseases, but a poor specificity in differential diagnosis of HIV brain lesions. Nevertheless, the homogeneous metabolic pattern that characterises PML suggests the usefulness of 1H-MRS as an adjunct to MRI in differentiating CNS white matter lesions, such as HIV encephalopathies, from PML.
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Calabrò ML, Sheldon J, Favero A, Simpson GR, Fiore JR, Gomes E, Angarano G, Chieco-Bianchi L, Schulz TF. Seroprevalence of Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus/human herpesvirus 8 in several regions of Italy. JOURNAL OF HUMAN VIROLOGY 1998; 1:207-13. [PMID: 10195244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the seroprevalence of Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus/human herpesvirus type 8 (KSHV/HHV-8) in 779 Italian blood donors. STUDY DESIGN/METHODS Sera were tested for antibodies to a latency-associated nuclear antigen (LANA) and a capsid related protein encoded by ORF65. RESULTS Among all Italian donors, 17.7% and 18.7% had antibodies to LANA and ORF65 protein, respectively, and 24.1% had antibodies to at least one antigen. KSHV/HHV-8 seroprevalence was higher in the Po valley and in Sardinia than close to the sub-Alpine Veneto region, Tuscany, or Apulia. KSHV/HHV-8 seroprevalence was almost equally distributed between men and women but increased in the older age groups. CONCLUSIONS The regional differences and age distribution in seroprevalence agree partially with the incidence of classic KS in Italy. The rarity of classic KS in KSHV/HHV-8-infected subjects and the equal gender distribution of seroprevalence suggest that other cofactors may contribute to KS development in human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1)-uninfected individuals.
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Angarano G, Maggi P, Rollo MA, Larocca AM, Quarto M, Scalone A, Gradoni L. Diffuse necrotic hepatic lesions due to visceral leishmaniasis in AIDS. J Infect 1998; 36:167-9. [PMID: 9570648 DOI: 10.1016/s0163-4453(98)80007-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
A rare case of an AIDS patient who developed scattered necrotic involvement of the liver caused by Leishmania infantum is described. Of interest, marked splenomegaly, hypergammaglobulinemia and serum anti-Leishmania antibodies were absent and an incomplete response to therapy was observed. Diagnosis of visceral leishmaniasis (VL) was achieved by the demonstration of numerous amastigotes in both hepatocytes and macrophages on liver biopsy. Hepatic necrotic lesions, which when extensive could lead to acute hepatic failure, possibly reflect an atypical manifestation of liver involvement caused by L. infantum and depend on the immunological impairment which characterizes AIDS patients, thus preventing the formation of granulomas. Our observation confirms that VL can manifest atypical aspects in HIV-positive patients depending on the degree of the immunodeficiency. The frequency and severity of this pathology accounts for the need to list VL among AIDS-defining conditions.
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Zhang YJ, Fracasso C, Fiore JR, Björndal A, Angarano G, Gringeri A, Fenyö EM. Augmented serum neutralizing activity against primary human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) isolates in two groups of HIV-1-infected long-term nonprogressors. J Infect Dis 1997; 176:1180-7. [PMID: 9359717 DOI: 10.1086/514111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Neutralizing activity against primary human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) isolates from 17 persons who were long-term disease nonprogressors (LTNPs) and 13 persons who were fast progressors (FPs) was compared. Sera from LTNPs showed higher neutralizing activity both in titer and in host spectrum than did sera from FPs. However, LTNP sera had limited neutralizing activity against HIV-1 subtypes from different geographic areas. Sera collected 6 years earlier from both groups had limited neutralizing activity, indicating that early responses are not predictive for disease progression. LTNPs had very low virus loads, as reflected by only one positive isolation, which was an MT-2-negative phenotype. Virus was isolated from all FPs, and the isolates showed a phenotype switch from MT-2 negative to MT-2 positive. Development of high-titer, broadly cross-reactive neutralizing antibodies is associated with control of virus replication and low virus load in HIV-1-infected LTNPs.
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Fiore JR, La Grasta L, Di Stefano M, Buccoliero G, Pastore G, Angarano G. The use of serum-free medium delays, but does not prevent, the cytotoxic effects of seminal plasma in lymphocyte cultures: implications for studies on HIV infection. THE NEW MICROBIOLOGICA 1997; 20:339-44. [PMID: 9385604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Evidence indicates that seminal plasma is cytotoxic when used in lymphocyte cultures. In fact, an amine oxidase which is normally present in Fetal Calf Serum (FCS) causes spermine oxidation and, finally, cytotoxic substances are released. This seminal quality might obviously hamper studies aiming to evaluate the role of semen in HIV sexual transmission, since lymphocytes are generally used as target or effector cells in virological or immunological studies on HIV. We evaluated the efficacy of FCS free-medium, heat inactivated seminal plasma and/or the washing-out of cultures after a three hour incubation period in preventing the cytotoxicity to lymphocytes. Results show that when cultures are carried out in the absence of FCS and/or after seminal plasma removal, cytotoxicity is not prevented, although delayed. This finding indicates that, along with still unrecognized additional factors, spermine oxidation is still an important factor for semen cytotoxicity, and this considerably hampers any immunological and virological study, requiring the use of lymphocytes, concerning seminal fluid.
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Amicosante M, Richeldi L, Monno L, Cuboni A, Tartoni PL, Angarano G, Orefici G, Saltini C. Serological markers predicting tuberculosis in human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients. Int J Tuberc Lung Dis 1997; 1:435-40. [PMID: 9441098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
SETTING Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive patients retrospectively identified at the Hospital of Bari, Italy, with diagnosis of tuberculosis (TB) (n = 30) or non-tuberculous pneumonia (n = 29). Serum samples drawn at the time of diagnosis and one year before. Anti-purified protein derivative (PPD) and anti-diacyltrehalose (DAT) serum antibodies quantified by ELISA assay. OBJECTIVE Since TB patients with HIV infection may present with elevated serum antibodies against Mycobacterium tuberculosis, we hypothesized that TB-specific antibody markers might predict TB in these subjects. DESIGN A retrospective study was designed to assess the presence of M. tuberculosis-specific antibodies in HIV-positive patients developing TB. RESULTS Of 30 HIV-positive TB patients, 24 (80%) had anti-PPD or anti-DAT antibodies at the time of TB diagnosis, and 20 (67%) one year before. In a sub-population of 16 of the 30 HIV-positive subjects, positivity for anti-PPD or anti-DAT antibodies one year before TB diagnosis was higher (11/16, 69%) than for the PPD skin test (4/16, 25%, P < 0.01). Antibody tests were specific for TB since positivity rates were lower both in patients with non-tuberculous pneumonia (P < 0.01) and in those with M. avium infection (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION Antibody markers may predict TB in HIV-positive subjects, including those with negative PPD skin test.
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