Cetuximab Plus Chemoradiotherapy for HIV-Associated Anal Carcinoma: A Phase II AIDS Malignancy Consortium Trial

Purpose Squamous cell carcinoma of the anal canal (SCCAC) is characterized by high locoregional failure (LRF) rates after definitive chemoradiation (CRT), associated with anogenital human papilloma virus, and often appears in HIV infection. Because cetuximab enhances the effect of radiation therapy in human papilloma virus-associated oropharyngeal SCC, we hypothesized that adding cetuximab to CRT would reduce LRF in SCCAC. Methods Forty-five patients with stage I to III SCCAC and HIV infection received CRT: 45 to 54 Gy radiation therapy to the primary tumor and regional lymph nodes plus eight once-weekly doses of concurrent cetuximab and two cycles of cisplatin and fluorouracil. The study was designed to detect at least a 50% reduction in 3-year LRF rate (one-sided α, 0.10; power, 90%), assuming a 35% LRF rate from historical data. Results The 3-year LRF rate was 42% (95% CI, 28% to 56%; one-sided P = .9) by binomial proportional estimate using the prespecified end point (LRF or alive without LRF and followed < 3 years), and 20% (95% CI, 10% to 37%) by Kaplan-Meier estimate in post hoc analysis using definitions and methods consistent with historical data. Three-year rates by Kaplan-Meier estimate were 72% (95% CI, 56% to 84%) for progression-free survival and 79% (95% CI, 63% to 89%) for overall survival. Grade 4 toxicity occurred in 26%, and 4% had treatment-associated deaths. Conclusion HIV-associated SCCAC is potentially curable with definitive CRT. Although addition of cetuximab may result in less LRF, the 20% recurrence and 26% grade 4 toxicity rates indicate the continued need for more-effective and less-toxic therapies.

Factors Associated with HPV Vaccine Awareness in a Population-Based Sample of Hispanic Women in Puerto Rico

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study was to investigate the factors associated with HPV awareness among women aged 16 to 64 years, among underserved minority Hispanic women living in Puerto Rico.

METHODS

A population-based, cross-sectional sample of 566 women, ages 16 to 64 years, living in the San Juan metropolitan area were surveyed regarding sexual behavior, HPV knowledge, and HPV vaccine uptake. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and multivariate logistic regression.

RESULTS

Overall, 64.8 % of the women in the sample had heard about the HPV vaccine. Among those in the recommended catch-up vaccination age range (16-26 years, n = 86), 4.7 % had received at least one dose of the HPV vaccine. Of those aware of the availability of the HPV vaccine, most had learned about it through the media, whereas, only 39.6 % had learned about it from a physician. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that HPV awareness (OR 8.6; 95 % CI 5.0-14.8) and having had an abnormal Pap smear (OR 2.0; 95 % CI 1.2-3.4) were associated with HPV vaccine awareness (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

HPV vaccine awareness among Hispanic women in the San Juan metropolitan area of Puerto Rico continues to be low. Strong recommendations from physicians and participation in HPV vaccine educational efforts are essential if the rate of HPV vaccination is to increase in the targeted population. Compared to the USA, and to their US Hispanic counterparts, a health disparity with regard to HPV vaccine awareness and coverage is evident in Puerto Rico; targeted action to deal with this disparity is urgently needed.

Prevalence, genotyping, and correlates of anogenital HPV infection in a population-based sample of women in Puerto Rico

Background

Oncogenic HPV infection is associated to anogenital cancer. We estimate the prevalence and correlates of anogenital HPV infection among a population-based sample of women aged 16–64 years living in the metropolitan area of Puerto Rico.

Methods

564 women completed face-to-face and computer assisted interviews and self-collected anal and cervical specimens. HPV DNA testing used MY09/MY11 consensus HPV L1 primers and beta-globin as an internal control for sample amplification. Positive specimens were typed by dot-blot hybridization.

Results

Weighted prevalence of cervical, anal, and cervical/anal co-infection was 29.4%, 38.6%, and 17.1%, respectively. The commonest oncogenic HPV types detected in the cervix and anus were: 68 (8% vs. 7%) and 16 (5.5% vs. 5.1%), correspondingly. Having ≥3 lifetime sexual partners (OR: 2.3; 95% CI: 1.5–3.5) and last year anal intercourse (OR: 1.6; 95% CI: 1.1–2.5) increased the odds of anogenital HPV infection. Cervical infection was independently associated to anal infection (OR: 3.0; 95% CI: 2.0–4.6).

Conclusions

Similar to others, our results confirm the burden of anogenital HPV infection in women and its relationship with sexual behavior. As vaccination increases, future studies should monitor changing trends in HPV infection in this population, and the relationship between anal and cervical HPV-related disease.

Association of cervical precancer with human papillomavirus types other than 16 among HIV co-infected women

BACKGROUND

HIV-seropositive women face high risk for infection with oncogenic human papillomavirus (oncHPV) types, abnormal Pap test results, and precancer, but cervical cancer risk is only modestly increased. Human papillomavirus (HPV)16 is highly oncogenic but only weakly associated with HIV status and immunosuppression, suggesting HPV16 may have a greater innate ability to evade host immune surveillance than other oncHPV types, which in turn should result in a greater relative increase in the prevalence of other oncHPV types among women with cervical precancer.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to assess whether the underrepresentation of HPV16 among HIV-seropositive relative to HIV-seronegative women remains among those with cervical precancers.

STUDY DESIGN

HIV-seropositive and HIV-seronegative women in the Women's Interagency HIV Study were screened for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) grade ≥3 (CIN3(+)). DNA from >40 HPV types was detected by polymerase chain reaction in cervicovaginal lavage specimens obtained at the visit at which CIN3(+) was diagnosed.

RESULTS

HPV16 was detected in 13 (62%) of 21 HIV-seronegative women with CIN3(+) but only 44 (29%) of 154 HIV-seropositive women with CIN3(+) (P = .01). The lower prevalence of HPV16 in CIN3(+) among HIV-seropositive women persisted after controlling for covariates (odds ratio [OR], 0.25; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.08-0.78). The prevalence of other members of the HPV16-related alpha-9 oncHPV clade as a group was similar in HIV-infected and uninfected women with CIN3(+) (OR, 1.02; 95% CI, 0.53-1.94). The prevalence of non-alpha-9 oncHPV types was increased in HIV-seropositive vs HIV-seronegative women with CIN3(+) (OR, 3.9; 95% CI, 1.3-11.8).

CONCLUSION

The previously demonstrated increase in CIN3(+) incidence among HIV-seropositive women is associated with lower HPV16 and higher non-alpha-9 oncHPV prevalence. This is consistent with prior reports that HIV has a weak effect on infection by HPV16 relative to other oncHPV and supports use of nonavalent HPV vaccine in HIV-seropositive women.

Prevalence and Correlates of Penile HPV Infection in a Clinic-Based Sample of Hispanic Males

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this manuscript is to describe the prevalence, genotypic distribution of penile HPV infection and the behavioral risk factors associated with penile HPV infection (any HPV type, high-oncogenic-risk [HR] types, low-oncogenic-risk [LR] types, and of multiple HPV types) in a group of sexually active males who went to an STI clinic in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

METHODS

After providing informed consent, the participants, underwent a detailed behavioral interview and a clinical examination. Frequency distributions and descriptive statistics were used to characterize the study samples. Prevalence estimates and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated for any type of HPV, HR types, LR types, or multiple types. Logistic regression analyses was performed to determine factors associated with each of the HPV types.

RESULTS

Two hundred and six participants were enrolled in this study. The mean age of the participants was 37.8±13.1 years. Close to 80% of the sample were infected with at least one HPV type; 73.5% were infected with one or more LR-HPV types; 32.4%, with one or more HR-HPV types; and 46.0%, with multiple HPV types. The most prevalent HR types were HPV-35, -31, and -16; the most prevalent LR types were HPV 6/11, and -84. After adjusting for age, having a high number of lifetime female sexual partners was highly associated with having multiple types of HPV infection (estimated OR=2.86; 95% CI=1.41, 5.80).

CONCLUSION

HPV infection is common among sexually active males frequenting this STI clinic. HPV types not covered by the current quadrivalent HPV vaccine were identified. Multiple HPV types in the penis are significantly related to the lifetime number of female sexual partners. The high prevalence of HPV at this particular STI clinic evidences that males need to be targeted in primary care settings if the available vaccine is to be effectively promoted. In addition, opportunities for secondary prevention of HPV in STI settings are recommended, because of the burden of anal and penile cancer documented in the island.

Methods in HPV Surveillance: Experiences from a Population-Based Study of HPV Infection among Women in the San Juan Metropolitan Area of Puerto Rico

This article describes the methodology of the first population-based study of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection among women aged 16-64 years residing in the San Juan Metropolitan Area of Puerto Rico (PR). The sample was identified through a complex sampling design of households. The sampling frame was selected in four stages, using census tracts maps from the Census Bureau. Women completed a face-to-face interview and a computer-assisted self-interview using the Audio CASI system, for the collection of demographic, clinical, and lifestyle variables, and sampling acceptability. Anal, cervical, and oral specimens were collected through self-collection methods for HPV DNA testing using a modified pool of MY09/MY11 consensus HPV L1 and human ß-globin amplification primers. Anthropometric measurements were taken using the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey methodology. Blood samples were collected to create a bio-repository for future HPV-related studies. Fifty census tract blocks were randomly selected. We recruited 566 women, with a response rate of 83.4%. Response rates did not vary by age-group (p>0.05); although they varied by socioeconomic (SES) census block stratums (p<0.05), response rates were good (>75%) in all SES strata. All participants agreed to respond to the surveys and provide the requested anogenital and oral samples. Overall, more than 98% understood and more than 50% felt comfortable with the cervical, anal, and oral self-collection methods used. This article documents the feasibility of performing population-based studies for HPV surveillance in women in PR.

Rationale and design of a long term follow-up study of women who did and did not receive HPV 16/18 vaccination in Guanacaste, Costa Rica

The Costa Rica Vaccine Trial (CVT) was a randomized clinical trial conducted between 2004 and 2010, which randomized 7466 women aged 18 to 25 to receive the bivalent HPV-16/18 vaccine or control Hepatitis-A vaccine. Participants were followed for 4 years with cross-over vaccination at the study end. In 2010 the long term follow-up (LTFU) study was initiated to evaluate the 10-year impact of HPV-16/18 vaccination, determinants of the immune response, and HPV natural history in a vaccinated population. Herein, the rationale, design and methods of the LTFU study are described, which actively follows CVT participants in the HPV-arm 6 additional years at biennial intervals (3 additional study visits for 10 years of total follow-up), or more often if clinically indicated. According to the initial commitment, women in the Hepatitis-A arm were offered HPV vaccination at cross-over; they were followed 2 additional years and exited from the study. 92% of eligible CVT women accepted participation in LTFU. To provide underlying rates of HPV acquisition and cervical disease among unvaccinated women to compare with the HPV-arm during LTFU, a new unvaccinated control group (UCG) of women who are beyond the age generally recommended for routine vaccination was enrolled, and will be followed by cervical cancer screening over 6 years. To form the UCG, 5000 women were selected from a local census, of whom 2836 women (61% of eligible women) agreed to participate. Over 90% of participants complied with an interview, blood and cervical specimen collection. Evaluation of comparability between the original (Hepatitis-A arm of CVT) and new (UCG) control groups showed that women's characteristics, as well as their predicted future risk for cervical HPV acquisition, were similar, thus validating use of the UCG. LTFU is poised to comprehensively address many important questions related to long-term effects of prophylactic HPV vaccines.

Oral human papillomavirus infection among drug users in Puerto Rico

OBJECTIVE

The prevalence of human papillomavirus (HPV) in the oral cavity has not been as well studied as genital infection and its prevalence among drug users is uncertain. This study describes the prevalence and correlates of oral HPV infection among a sample of drug users in Puerto Rico (PR).

METHODS

Cross-sectional study of 271 drug users aged 18-35 years, not undergoing substance abuse treatment, living in the San Juan metropolitan area. Oral samples were collected through an oral rinse and HPV infection status was detected through PCR and HPV typing. Information on covariates was obtained through face-to-face interviews and serum analyses.

RESULTS

A total of 34 participants were positive for any HPV type (12.5%), whereas 13 individuals (4.8%) were positive for one of the 38 type-specific HPV probes evaluated. Among those HPV positive, the most common HPV type detected was non-oncogenic HPV 72 (11.8%, n = 4). Oncogenic HPV types detected were 35 (5.9%) and 56 (2.9%). Factors associated with oral HPV infection included binge drinking (OR = 3.85, 95% CI = 1.40, 10.58), HIV positivity (OR = 4.67, 95% CI = 1.58, 13.74) and ever having engaged in commercial sex (OR = 3.55, 95% CI = 1.46, 8.67); infection did not differ by age or gender.

CONCLUSION

Consistent with previous studies in the genital and oral tract, HIV infection, alcohol abuse and commercial sex practices were strongly associated with oral HPV infection. Future studies should assess the implications of oral HPV infection on oral cancer risk in this population.

Risk factors for anal HPV-16/18 infection in Mexican HIV-infected men who have sex with men

OBJECTIVE

To describe the prevalence of specific HPV types among HIV-positive men who have sex with men (MSM), particularly the presence of HPV-16 and/or -18, and to determine the factors associated with anal HPV-16/18 infections.

METHODS

This is a cross-sectional study from a baseline cohort of 525 HIV-positive MSM, who attended an HIV Clinic in Mexico City. Socio-demographic characteristics, sexual behaviors and HIV-related parameters were assessed. Anal samples were tested for HPV DNA using the Linear Array HPV genotyping assay.

RESULTS

The overall prevalence of any HPV type in the anal canal among 446 participants was 93.1%. At least one oncogenic HPV type was detected in 72.2% of the subjects and HPV-16 and/or18 were detected in 30.7%. Additionally, 76.9% of patients were infected with multiple HPV types. Having more than 10 receptive sexual partners in the last 6months (OR=2.30; 95% CI 1.12-4.74) and a CD4 cell count ≤350cells/μL (OR=1.97; 95% CI 1.26-3.09) were factors positively associated with HPV-16/18 infection in the anal canal.

CONCLUSION

Co-infection with HPV-16/18 and other oncogenic types are predominant in this group of HIV-positive MSM. The recognition of infection with specific oncogenic types will be of aid in designing future preventive strategies that target this high-risk population.

Long-term cumulative detection of human papillomavirus among HIV seropositive women

OBJECTIVE

To estimate the effects of infection by HIV on the type-specific cumulative detection of cervicovaginal infection by human papillomavirus (HPV).

DESIGN

Retrospective assessment of prospectively collected data in a multicenter US cohort.

METHODS

HIV-seropositive and at-risk seronegative participants in the Women's Interagency HIV Study were followed semiannually for up to 11 years. HPV typing was determined from cervicovaginal lavage specimens by PCR; types 16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 56, 58, 59, 68 were considered carcinogenic.

RESULTS

Among the 3438 women enrolled (2543 HIV-seropositive, 895 seronegative), the cumulative detection of any HPV infection rose among HIV-seropositive women from 53% at baseline to 92% at 8 years, and among seronegative women from 22 to 66% (P < 0.0001 for HIV-seropositive vs. seronegative women). The 8-year cumulative detection of carcinogenic and noncarcinogenic HPV was 67 and 89% among HIV-seropositive, and 36 and 56% among seronegative women (P = 0.001 for both carcinogenic and noncarcinogenic HPV). The 8-year cumulative detection of HPV16 and HPV18 was 15.2 and 15.0% in HIV-seropositive, and 6.7 and 6.1% in HIV-seronegative women (P < 0.0001 for both). In multivariable regression analyses, lower CD4(+) cell count, age under 30 years, and smoking, but not number of lifetime sexual partners, were significant correlates of cumulative HPV detection.

CONCLUSION

More than 90% of the HIV-seropositive women have HPV detected during a long follow-up. The rates are lower among at-risk HIV-seronegative women, though most also develop HPV infections.

Human papillomavirus-related cancers among people living with AIDS in Puerto Rico

The objective of this study was to estimate the incidence of cancer and human papillomavirus (HPV)–related cancers and the risk of death (by cancer status) among people living with AIDS (PLWA) in Puerto Rico. We used data from the Puerto Rico AIDS Surveillance Program and Central Cancer Registry (1985–2005). Cancers with highest incidence were cervix (299.6/100,000) for women and oral cavity/oropharynx for men (150.0/100,000); the greatest excess of cancer incidence for men (standardized incidence ratio, 86.8) and women (standardized incidence ratio, 52.8) was for anal cancer. PLWA who developed a cancer had decreased survival and increased risk of death compared with those who did not have cancer. Cancer control strategies for PLWA will be essential for improving their disease survival.

Environmental scan of anal cancer screening practices: worldwide survey results

Anal squamous cell carcinoma is rare in the general population but certain populations, such as persons with HIV, are at increased risk. High-risk populations can be screened for anal cancer using strategies similar to those used for cervical cancer. However, little is known about the use of such screening practices across jurisdictions. Data were collected using an online survey. Health care professionals currently providing anal cancer screening services were invited to complete the survey via email and/or fax. Information was collected on populations screened, services and treatments offered, and personnel. Over 300 invitations were sent; 82 providers from 80 clinics around the world completed the survey. Fourteen clinics have each examined more than 1000 patients. Over a third of clinics do not restrict access to screening; in the rest, eligibility is most commonly based on HIV status and abnormal anal cytology results. Fifty-three percent of clinics require abnormal anal cytology prior to performing high-resolution anoscopy (HRA) in asymptomatic patients. Almost all clinics offer both anal cytology and HRA. Internal high-grade anal intraepithelial neoplasia (AIN) is most often treated with infrared coagulation (61%), whereas external high-grade AIN is most commonly treated with imiquimod (49%). Most procedures are performed by physicians, followed by nurse practitioners. Our study is the first description of global anal cancer screening practices. Our findings may be used to inform practice and health policy in jurisdictions considering anal cancer screening.

Human papillomavirus types 2, 27, and 57 Identified in plantar verrucae from HIV-positive and HIV-negative individuals

BACKGROUND

Although an increased prevalence of plantar verrucae has been associated with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, human papillomavirus (HPV) typing studies have not been published about this patient population. We sought to determine the prevalence of HPV types in plantar verrucae of HIV-positive (HIV+) and HIV-negative (HIV-) individuals.

METHODS

Thirty-nine plantar verruca lesions in 17 individuals were examined. Nine participants were HIV+ and eight were HIV-. Detection of HPV was performed by polymerase chain reaction using two sets of primers: MY09/MY11. The type of HPV was determined by hybridization to 38 different HPV types. Clinical types of verrucae were correlated to the HPV strain identified in each lesion.

RESULTS

Of the 39 plantar verruca samples, 38 typed to HPV-2, HPV-27, and HPV-57 strains in HIV+ and HIV- individuals. Specifically, a large proportion of the samples from HIV- individuals typed as HPV-27 (87.5%), and HPV-2 was the predominant type identified in HIV+ individuals (50%). No rare or atypical HPV types were found in either group. We identified HPV-2 and HPV-27 in 96% of verruca plantaris clinical type. Mosaic warts typed to HPV-27 and HPV-57, and 80% of punctate verrucae typed to HPV-57.

CONCLUSIONS

This study presents an increased prevalence of HPV-2, HPV-27, and HPV-57 in plantar verrucae in this study population and provides insight into the occurrence of these types in HIV+ and HIV- individuals.

Incidence, clearance, and disease progression of genital human papillomavirus infection in heterosexual men

BACKGROUND

In this analysis, we examine the incidence and clearance of external genital human papillomavirus (HPV) infection among heterosexual males aged 16-24 years.

METHODS

A total of 1732 males aged 16-24 years old in the placebo arm of a quadrivalent HPV vaccine trial were included in this analysis. Participants were enrolled from 18 countries in Africa, the Asia-Pacific region, Europe, Latin America, and North America. Subjects underwent anogenital examinations and sampling of the penis, scrotum, and perineal/perianal regions.

RESULTS

The incidence rate of any HPV DNA genotype 6, 11, 16, and/or 18 detection was 9.0 cases per 100 person-years. Rates of HPV DNA detection were highest in men from Africa. Median time to clearance of HPV genotypes 6, 11, 16, and 18 DNA was 6.1, 6.1, 7.7, and 6.2 months, respectively. Median time to clearance of persistently detected HPV 6, 11, 16, and 18 DNA was 6.7, 3.2, 9.2, and 4.7 months, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The study results suggest that the acquisition of HPV 6, 11, 16, and/or 18 in males is common and that many of these so-called infections are subsequently cleared, similar to findings for women. Nevertheless, given the high rate of HPV detection among young men, HPV vaccination of males may reduce infection in men and reduce the overall burden of HPV-associated disease in the community.

Recognizing and treating anal cancer: training medical students and physicians in Puerto Rico

OBJECTIVE

This training activity aimed at increasing the knowledge of anal cancer screening, diagnostic and treatment options in medical students and physicians, to determine the interest of these individuals in receiving training in the diagnosis and treatment of anal cancer, and to explore any previous training and/or experience with both anal cancer and clinical trials that these individuals might have.

METHODS

An educational activity (1.5 contact hours) was attended by a group of medical students, residents and several faculty members, all from the Medical Sciences Campus of the University of Puerto Rico (n = 50). A demographic survey and a 6-item pre- and post-test on anal cancer were given to assess knowledge change.

RESULTS

Thirty-four participants (68%) answered the survey. Mean age was 29.6 +/- 6.6 years; 78.8% had not received training in anal cancer screening, 93.9% reported being interested in receiving anal cancer training, and 75.8% expressed an interest in leading or conducting a clinical trial. A significant increase in the test scores was observed after the educational activity (pre-test: 3.4 +/- 1.2; post-test: 4.7 +/- 0.71). Three of the items showed an increase in knowledge by the time the post-test was taken. The first of these items assessed the participants' knowledge regarding the existence of any guidelines for the screening/treatment of patients with human papillomavirus (HPV)-related anal disease. The second of these items attempted to determine whether the participants recognized that anal intraepithelial neoplasia (AIN) 2 is considered to be a high-grade neoplasia. The last of the 3 items was aimed at ascertaining whether or not the participants were aware that warty growths in the anus are not necessarily a manifestation of high-grade AIN.

CONCLUSION

This educational activity increased the participants' knowledge of anal cancer and revealed, as well, that most of the participants were interested in future training and in collaborating in a clinical trial. Training physicians from Puerto Rico on anal cancer clinical trials is essential to encourage recruitment of Hispanic patients in these studies now that the guidelines in anal cancer screening and treatment are on their way to be defined.

Assessment of HPV 16 and HPV 18 antibody responses by pseudovirus neutralization, Merck cLIA and Merck total IgG LIA immunoassays in a reduced dosage quadrivalent HPV vaccine trial

We assessed HPV 16 and 18 antibody responses of female subjects enrolled in a 2- vs. 3-dose quadrivalent HPV (Q-HPV) vaccine trial (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00501137) using the Merck competitive Luminex (cLIA) and total IgG Luminex (TIgG) immunoassays, and a pseudovirus neutralizing antibody (PsV NAb) assay. Subjects were enrolled in one of three groups: (1) 9-13yr, 2 doses of Q-HPV at 0, 6 months (n=259); (2) 9-13yr, 3 doses at 0, 2, 6 months (n=260); and (3) 16-26yr, 3 doses at 0, 2, 6 months (n=305). Sera were collected from all subjects at baseline, months 7 and 24, and from half the subjects at months 18 and 36. High correlation was observed between all three assays. At month 36, HPV 16 antibodies remained detectable in all subjects by all assays, whereas 86.4%, 99.6% and 100% of subjects respectively were HPV 18 cLIA, TIgG and PsV NAb (partial neutralization endpoint) seropositive. The proportion seropositive for HPV 18 by cLIA at 36 months was not significantly different for 2-dose girls vs. 3-dose adults (85.9% vs. 79.4%; p=0.51), whereas the proportion for 3-dose girls was significantly higher than for 3-dose adults (95.3% vs. 79.4%; p<0.01). The HPV 18 seropositive proportions by the TIgG and PsV NAb (partial neutralization endpoint) assays were the same for all subjects. High baseline HPV 16 and HPV 18 seropositivity was observed for the TIgG assay and it is unclear if all the detected TIgG antibodies are type-specific and/or neutralizing. For the PsV NAb assay, 90% and partial neutralization geometric mean titres were consistently 2-8-fold higher than for 100% neutralization, which enabled detection of HPV 18 NAb in subjects who lost detectable cLIA antibodies over time. We conclude that the PsV NAb assay is more sensitive than the cLIA, and likely more specific than the TIgG assay.

Abstract 3609: Factors associated to concurrent anal and cervical HPV infection: Results from a population-based study among Hispanics

Objective: Persistent infection with certain types of HPV is associated with cervical and anal cancer, accounting for 96% and 93% of these tumors in the US. Population-based data on anal and cervical HPV co-infection among Hispanics is limited. We aimed to estimate the concordance between cervical and anal HPV infection among a population-based sample of 600 women aged 16 to 64 years living in the San Juan Metropolitan area of Puerto Rico (PR).

Methods: The study population for this cross-sectional study (2010-2012) was identified through a cluster probability sampling design of households in the San Juan Metropolitan Area, and included non-institutionalized women aged 16-64 years old residing in this area. Women completed a face-to-face interview conducted by female trained data collectors and a computer-assisted self-interview, using the Audio CASI system for the collection of demographic and lifestyle variables. Anal and cervical specimens were collected through previously tested self-collection methods and HPV DNA testing was performed using a modified pool of MY09/MY11 consensus HPV L1 primers as well as primers for amplification of the human beta-globin gene. PCR products from positive samples were typed by dot-blot hybridization using 39 individual type-specific probes. Logistic regression models were used to assess factors associated to concurrent cervical and anal HPV infection.

Results: Mean age of participants is 42.0 years (±13.4 SD), 19.3% have &lt; 12 years of education and 9.7% had no health-care coverage. Laboratory results for the first 403 participants with complete cervical and anal results show that 21.3% were co-infected with HPV in the cervix and anus. In multivariate logistic regression models, women aged 35-49 (OR=0.45, 95% CI=0.23-0.86) and 50-64 years (0.44, 95% CI=0.21-0.93) were less like to be co-infected as compared to those aged 16-34. A trend was observed were women with 2-9 lifetime sexual partners (OR=2.47, 95% CI=0.91-6.73) and those with ≥10 sexual partners (OR=3.33, 95% CI=1.07-10.41) were more likely to be co-infected than women with one sexual partner. Also, those married/living together (OR=0.55, 95% CI=0.30-1.01) were less likely to be co-infected as compared to single women, this result was marginally significant (p&lt;0.10). No differences were observed by education, health-care coverage, smoking status, age of sexual initiation or anal sexual practices.

Conclusions: Co-infection with HPV infection in the cervix and anus is common among Hispanic women in PR, and is associated with younger age and increased number of sexual partners. Given the current low uptake of the HPV vaccine in PR, public health interventions that increase vaccine accessibility and uptake in this population are warranted, as a method for cervical and anal cancer prevention.

Citation Format: Ana P. Ortiz-Martinez, Edmir Marrero-Estrada, Marievelisse Soto-Salgado, Cynthia Pérez, Erick Suárez, Josefina Romaguera, Cristina Muñoz, Maria Da Costa, Joel Palefsky, Guillermo Tortolero-Luna. Factors associated to concurrent anal and cervical HPV infection: Results from a population-based study among Hispanics. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 3609. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-3609

32. HPV type and strain variant concordance between anal cancers and their preceding high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions

Background Anal high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL) are frequently found overlying anal cancer on histology, and anal cancer has been observed to develop in the same location as previously diagnosed anal HSIL. These observations support the role of HSIL as the direct precursor lesion to anal cancer. To further investigate a direct pathogenetic relationship between anal HSIL and cancer, we typed and sequenced HPV DNA in anal HSIL and the cancers that subsequently developed in the same location. Methods: Tissues samples were analysed from 15 HIV-infected men followed at UCSF in whom anal cancer developed at a previously biopsied site of HSIL. Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded pairs of HSIL and cancer were typed for HPV DNA using L1 PCR. HPV 16-positive samples underwent E6-based strain variant analysis. Results: Nine matched pairs for which DNA from both HSIL and cancer were available were analysed. Eight pairs (89%) contained HPV 16 DNA. One (11%) contained both HPV 18 and 51 in both samples. Of the eight HPV 16-positive pairs, each pair contained the same HPV 16 strain variant. Four contained the Eur-350T variant alone, and one contained Eur-350T in both the HSIL and cancer, with an additional 426T variant in the cancer. One pair contained both Eur-350T and 457C in both the HSIL and the cancer. Two pairs contained the Eur-350G variant alone. Conclusions: Concordance of both the HPV type and strain variant in anal cancers and their site-matched preceding HSIL further supports the role of anal HSIL as an anal cancer precursor.

29. Anal cancer trends in Puerto Rico (PR) from 1985 to 2005: impact of HIV status

Background PR is one of the US jurisdictions with the highest burden of HIV/AIDS. We describe the proportion of HIV+ anal cancer cases in PR and the impact of HIV status on anal cancer incidence trends, by sex and age. Methods: The PR Central Cancer Registry (PRCCR) and the PR AIDS Surveillance Program databases were linked using a probabilistic linkage algorithm with Link Plus v.2.0 software. The proportion of anal cancer cases with and without HIV in PR were calculated. Temporal trends (1985–2005) in the incidence rates (standardised US 2000 population) of anal cancer (overall and after exclusion of HIV+ cancer cases) were calculated through annual per cent changes (APC) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs), using a Joinpoint log-linear model. Results: From 1985 to 2005, 736 cases of anal cancer were diagnosed in PR; 26 cases were HIV+. While most anal cancer patients were female (70.8%), the proportion of HIV+ patients was higher in males (11.4%) than females (0.77%). In men, incidence increased significantly (APC = 3.23, P < 0.05) when HIV+ cases were considered; the increase was reduced (APC = 0.97) when these were excluded (P > 0.05). In females, incidence increased (APC = 2.01) when HIV+ cases were considered, whereas the increase was reduced (APC = 0.85) when these were excluded; these increases were non-significant (P > 0.05). Conclusions: Consistent with data from the US, the increasing anal cancer incidence rates in PR were strongly influenced by the HIV epidemic in males but were independent of HIV infection in females.

41. Willingness to join an anal cancer screening and prevention trial

Background HIV-infected men and women are at elevated risk for developing anal cancer. The AIDS Malignancy Consortium is designing a 5-year randomised controlled trial to determine whether treatment of anal high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL) can prevent anal cancer. HIV-infected men and women over 35 years of age will be screened and those with anal HSIL will be randomly assigned to have their HSIL removed (intervention arm) or not removed (monitoring arm). Both arms would be monitored for progression to cancer at regular intervals for 5 years, and cancer incidence in the two arms will be compared. Methods: The present study sought to assess willingness to participate in such a trial through focus groups with 241 HIV-infected men and women in 10 US cities, and a survey of 257 HIV-infected men and women in 20 cities. Results: 87% of survey respondents reported that they were ‘likely’ or ‘very likely’ to participate in the trial. Altruism and gratitude towards previous AIDS trial cohorts were the most cited motivations for participation. Over half (51.5%) of survey participants expressed equipoise, viewing participation in either arm as beneficial. Of the remaining respondents, 71.8% expressed a preference for the intervention arm if given a choice. Concerns expressed in the focus groups about randomisation to the monitoring arm centred on the conflation of HSIL with cancer, suggesting a need for ongoing education and psychological support. Conclusions: High levels of expressed interest and motivation to participate in the study suggest that recruitment and retention over 5 years will be feasible.

28. Investigating motivations for participation in an anal cancer screening trial (IMPACT)

Background The efficacy of preventing anal cancer by treating the anal cancer precursor, anal high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL), has not yet been demonstrated. The AIDS Malignancy Consortium’s (AMC) 076 protocol is a 2-year randomised controlled trial (RCT) of infrared coagulation to treat HSIL compared with observation only. The goal of the present study was to understand motivations for participation in AMC 076 in preparation for a larger 5-year study of the efficacy of HSIL treatment in prevention of anal cancer. Methods: AMC 076 participants (n = 17) from three clinical sites were recruited for telephone interviews at 3 months and 12 months after enrolment. Topics covered included motivations for participating in the clinical trial, randomisation, preferences for treatment versus monitoring, understanding of HSIL diagnosis, tolerability of the clinical procedures and treatment sequelae. Results: Participants reported a desire to contribute to research to help the HIV community as motivation for joining the study. Regardless of their assigned study arm, participants valued frequent monitoring of their HSIL. Those in the monitoring arm expressed trust that the provider would treat them upon early signs of cancer. Concerns expressed about participating in a 5-year trial were more often related to transportation issues than randomisation or tolerability of clinical procedures. Conclusions: Trust in providers’ clinical assessment is vital for willingness to be observed without treatment for pre-cancerous anal lesions. The experience of living with HIV appears to condition participants to trust providers’ treatment advice, value frequent screening, and to live with the ambiguity of test results.

30. Recognising and treating anal cancer: training medical students and physicians in Puerto Rico

Background Knowledge about epidemiology, diagnosis and treatment of anal neoplasia is limited among medical students and physicians from Puerto Rico (PR). Methods: Educational activity (1.5 contact hours) about anal cancer for a group of medical students, residents and faculty from the University of PR (n = 50). A 6-item pre- and post-test on anal cancer was given to assess the change in knowledge. Results: Thirty-four participants (68%) answered the survey. Overall, 78.8% had not received training in anal cancer screening and 93.9% were interested in receiving this training. Most (75.8%) were interested in participating in a clinical trial. An increase in the test scores was observed after the activity (pre-test: 3.4 ± 1.2; post-test: 4.7 ± 0.71). Three items showed an increment in the post-test that assessed participants’ knowledge regarding: (1) current status of guidelines for the screening/treatment of patients with HPV-related anal disease; (2) that anal intraepithelial neoplasia (AIN) 2 is considered to be a form of high-grade AIN (HGAIN); and (3) that warty growths in the anus are not necessarily a manifestation of HGAIN. Conclusions: This educational activity increased the participants’ knowledge of anal cancer and revealed that most of them were interested in future training and in collaborating in clinical trials. Training physicians from PR on anal cancer and clinical trials is essential to encourage recruitment of Hispanic patients in these studies now that the guidelines in anal cancer screening and treatment are on their way to being defined.