Risk factors and outcomes for late presentation for HIV-positive persons in Europe: results from the Collaboration of Observational HIV Epidemiological Research Europe Study (COHERE)

Opt-out screening strategy for HIV infection among patients attending emergency departments: systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

International health agencies have promoted nontargeted universal (opt-out) HIV screening tests in different settings, including emergency departments (EDs). We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the testing uptake of strategies (opt-in targeted, opt-in nontargeted and opt-out) to detect new cases of HIV infection in EDs.

METHODS

We searched the Pubmed and Embase databases, from 1984 to April 2015, for opt-in and opt-out HIV diagnostic strategies used in EDs. Randomized controlled or quasi experimental studies were included. We assessed the percentage of positive individuals tested for HIV infection in each programme (opt-in and opt-out strategies). The mean percentage was estimated by combining studies in a random-effect meta-analysis. The percentages of individuals tested in the programmes were compared in a random-effect meta-regression model. Data were analysed using stata version 12. Quality assessments were performed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale.

RESULTS

Of the 90 papers identified, 28 were eligible for inclusion. Eight trials used opt-out, 18 trials used opt-in, and two trials used both to detect new cases of HIV infection. The test was accepted and taken by 75 155 of 172 237 patients (44%) in the opt-out strategy, and 73 581 of 382 992 patients (19%) in the opt-in strategy. The prevalence of HIV infection detected by the opt-out strategy was 0.40% (373 cases), that detected by the opt-in nontargeted strategy was 0.52% (419 cases), and that detected by the opt-in targeted strategy was 1.06% (52 cases).

CONCLUSIONS

In this meta-analysis, the testing uptake of the opt-out strategy was not different from that of the opt-in strategy to detect new cases of HIV infection in EDs.

The persistent problem of late HIV diagnosis in people with AIDS: a population-based study in Italy, 1999-2013

OBJECTIVES

Despite the wide accessibility to free human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing and combined antiretroviral therapy (cART), late HIV diagnosis remains common with severe consequences at individual and population level. This study aimed to describe trends of late HIV testing and to identify their determinants in the late cART era in Italy.

STUDY DESIGN

We conducted a population-based, nationwide analysis of the Italian National AIDS Registry data (AIDS - acquired immune deficiency syndrome) for the years 1999-2013.

METHODS

Late testers (LTs) were defined as people with AIDS (PWA) whose first HIV-positive test preceded AIDS diagnosis by 3 months or less. Odds ratios (ORs) with the corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated to examine factors associated with being LTs. Joinpoint analysis was used to estimate annual percent changes (APCs) of LTs' proportion over time.

RESULTS

Among 20,753 adult PWA, 50.8% were LTs. Italian PWA showed a lower proportion of LTs than non-Italian PWA (46.5% vs 68.2%). Among Italian PWA, the odds of being LTs was higher in men than in women (OR = 2.62, 95% CI: 2.38-2.90); in the age groups below 35 years and over 49 years at diagnosis (OR = 1.24, 95% CI: 1.12-1.37 and OR = 1.51, 95% CI: 1.38-1.67, respectively) vs PWA aged 35-49 years; and in those infected through sexual contact as compared with injecting drug use (OR = 13.34, 95% CI: 12.06-14.76 for heterosexual contact and OR = 8.13, 95% CI: 7.30-9.06 for male-to-male sexual contact). The proportion of LTs increased over time among Italians, especially in the latest period (APC_2006-2013 = 5.3, 95% CI: 3.8-6.9). The LTs' proportion resulted higher, though stable, among PWA aged ≥50 years. Conversely, an increasing trend was observed among PWA aged 18-34 years (APC = 5.3, 95% CI: 4.5-6.1). The LTs' proportion was persistently higher among PWA who acquired HIV infection through sexual contact, even if a marked increase among injecting drug users was observed after 2005 (APC = 11.4, 95% CI: 5.7-17.5).

CONCLUSIONS

The increasing trend of LTs' proportion in the late cART era highlights the need of new strategies tailored to groups who may not consider themselves to be at a high risk of infection. Active promotion of early testing and continuous education of infection, especially among young people, need to be implemented.

Missed opportunities for earlier diagnosis of HIV in patients who presented with advanced HIV disease: a retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE

To quantify and characterise missed opportunities for earlier HIV diagnosis in patients diagnosed with advanced HIV.

DESIGN

A retrospective observational cohort study.

SETTING

A central tertiary medical centre in Israel.

MEASURES

The proportion of patients with advanced HIV, the proportion of missed opportunities to diagnose them earlier, and the rate of clinical indicator diseases (CIDs) in those patients.

RESULTS

Between 2010 and 2015, 356 patients were diagnosed with HIV, 118 (33.4%) were diagnosed late, 57 (16%) with advanced HIV disease. Old age (OR=1.45 (95% CI 1.16 to 1.74)) and being heterosexual (OR=2.65 (95% CI 1.21 to 5.78)) were significant risk factors for being diagnosed late. All patients with advanced disease had at least one CID that did not lead to an HIV test in the 5 years prior to AIDS diagnosis. The median time between CID and AIDS diagnosis was 24 months (IQR 10-30). 60% of CIDs were missed by a general practitioner and 40% by a specialist.

CONCLUSIONS

Missed opportunities to early diagnosis of HIV occur in primary and secondary care. Lack of national guidelines, lack of knowledge regarding CIDs and communication barriers with patients may contribute to a late diagnosis of HIV.

The prevalence and associated factors for delayed presentation for HIV care among tuberculosis/HIV co-infected patients in Southwest Ethiopia: a retrospective observational cohort

Background

A delay presentation for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) patient’s care (that is late engagement to HIV care due to delayed HIV testing or delayed linkage for HIV care after the diagnosis of HIV positive) is a critical step in the series of HIV patient care continuum. In Ethiopia, delayed presentation (DP) for HIV care among vulnerable groups such as tuberculosis (Tb) /HIV co-infected patients has not been assessed. We aimed to assess the prevalence of and factors associated with DP (CD4 < 200 cells/μl at first visit) among Tb/HIV co-infected patients in southwest Ethiopia.

Methods

A retrospective observational cohort study collated Tb/HIV data from Jimma University Teaching Hospital for the period of September 2010 and August 2012. The data analysis used logistic regression model at P value of ≤ 0.05 in the final model.

Results

The prevalence of DP among Tb/HIV co-infected patients was 59.9 %. Tb/HIV co-infected patients who had a house with at least two rooms were less likely (AOR, 0.5; 95 % CI: 0.3–1.0) to present late than those having only single room. Tobacco non-users of Tb/HIV co-infected participants were also 50 % less likely (AOR, 0.5; 95 % CI: 0.3–0.8) to present late for HIV care compared to tobacco users. The relative odds of DP among Tb/HIV co-infected patients with ambulatory (AOR, 1.8; 95 % CI, 1.0–3.1) and bedridden (AOR, 8.3; 95 % CI, 2.8–25.1) functional status was higher than with working status.

Conclusions

Three out of five Tb/HIV co-infected patients presented late for HIV care. Higher proportions of DP were observed in bedridden patients, tobacco smokers, and those who had a single room residence. These findings have intervention implications and call for effective management strategies for Tb/HIV co-infection including early HIV diagnosis and early linkage to HIV care services.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s40249-016-0193-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Evaluation of Baseline CD4+ T Cell Counts and ART Requirement in Newly Diagnosed HIV Seropositive Individuals in a Tertiary Care Hospital of Northern India

INTRODUCTION

Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) has changed the outlook of Human Immune-deficiency Virus (HIV)/Acquired Immuno Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) patients worldwide.

AIM

To analyse the trends in baseline CD4+ T cell counts and ART requirements in newly diagnosed HIV seropositive individuals in a Tertiary care hospital of Northern India.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Out of 1263 HIV seropositive clients identified from January 2012 to June 2014, the baseline CD4+ T cell counts of only those 470 clients were analysed, who registered at the linked ART centre.

RESULTS

The mean baseline CD4+ count of the study group was 249.77±216.0cells/mm³ and that of male and female were 300.31±240.47cells/mm³ and 232.38±204.25cells/mm³ respectively. A total of 259 of 334 (77.54%) HIV reactive males, 83 of 130 (63.85%) HIV reactive females and overall 348 of 470 (74.04%) required antiretroviral treatment on enrolment.

CONCLUSION

In the present study, about three-fourth of newly diagnosed HIV positive Indian patients required initiation of ART at registration. The relatively low baseline CD4+ T cell counts in this population highlights the need for timely baseline CD4+ counts testing of HIV positive patients and the urgency of initiating treatment in HIV reactive individuals in Indian health care settings.

HIV infection and immune activation: the role of coinfections

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This article explores new data from recent studies addressing the role of coinfections in immune activation in HIV-1-infected patients, with a focus on immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS), an aberrant inflammatory response occurring shortly after antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation.

RECENT FINDINGS

Chronic HIV infection is associated with several coinfections that contribute to immune activation in various settings including early after ART initiation in the most noticeable form of IRIS and also in chronic-treated infection, with chronic viral infections like cytomegalovirus and hepatitis C or hepatitis B virus contributing to immune activation and also morbidity and mortality. Expanding on older studies, the role of T cells in IRIS has been further elucidated with evidence of more pronounced effector activity in patients with IRIS that may be leading to excessive tissue disorder. Newer studies are also continuing to shed light on the role of myeloid cells as well as the contribution of antigen load in IRIS. In addition, preliminary data are beginning to suggest a possible role of inflammasome formation in IRIS. In cryptococcal IRIS, the role of activated immune cells (T cell and myeloid) and biomarkers were evaluated in more detail at the site of infection (cerebrospinal fluid). Finally, important differences of patients developing IRIS versus those who die from tuberculosis despite ART initiation were reported, a distinction that may have important implications for participant selection in studies aiming to prevent IRIS with immunosuppressive agents.

SUMMARY

Better understanding of the role of opportunistic infections at ART initiation and IRIS pathogenesis will assist in improved strategies for prevention and treatment. The long-term consequences of IRIS remain unclear. Chronic viral coinfections with herpesviruses and hepatitis C virus are important factors in persistent immune activation in chronic-treated HIV.

Poor Linkage to Care Despite Significant Improvement in Access to Early cART in Central Poland - Data from Test and Keep in Care (TAK) Project

BACKGROUND

The main objective of the TAK project is investigating barriers in accessing HIV care after HIV-diagnosis at the CBVCTs of central Poland. Here we describe factors associated with and changes over time in linkage to care and access to cART.

METHOD

Data collected in 2010-2013 in CBVCTs were linked with HIV clinics records using unique identifiers. Individuals were followed from the day of CBVCTs visit until first clinical visit or 4/06/2014. Cox-proportional hazard models were used to identify factors associated with being linked to care and starting cART.

RESULTS

In total 232 persons were diagnosed HIV-positive and 144 (62.1% 95%CI: 55.5-68.3) persons were linked to care. There was no change over time in linkage to care (p = 0.48), while time to starting cART decreased (p = 0.02). Multivariate factors associated with a lower rate of linkage to care were hetero/bisexual sexual orientation, lower education, not having an HIV-positive partner and not using condoms in a stable relationship. Multivariate factors associated with starting cART were lower education, recent year of linked to care, and first HIV RNA and CD4 cell count.

CONCLUSIONS

Benefits of linkage to care, measured by access to early treatment, steadily improved in recent years. However at least 1 in 3 persons aware of their HIV status in central Poland remained outside professional healthcare. Persons at higher risk of remaining outside care, thus target population for future interventions, are bi/heterosexuals and those with lower levels of education.

Web-Based HIV Testing in Abruzzo, Italy: Analysis of 15-Month Activity Results

Undiagnosed cases of HIV infection in developed countries are estimated at 20-30% of individuals living with HIV. Web-based strategies may represent a new approach to easier, wider, and unrestricted access to early testing. The Abruzzo Region, Italy, developed a Web-based tool to recruit persons at high risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). At the Website www.failtestanchetu.it , browsers found information on STIs (HIV, hepatitis B and C, and syphilis), a structured questionnaire called "risk calculator" to assess one's own risk behaviors and direct booking of their test at one of six sites throughout the region. The Website was advertised on local media and in pharmacies, high schools, sports facilities, and factories. Between February 1, 2014, and May 31, 2015, about 6000 users visited the Website; 3046 people attended a visit for counseling on risk behaviors, signs, or symptoms of STIs and accepted blood drawing for HIV, hepatitis B Virus (HBV), hepatitis C Virus (HCV), and syphilis tests. Fifty-eight (1.90%) subjects were positive for HCV, 56 (1.84%) for HBsAg, 90 (2.95%) for Treponema pallidum antibodies, and 28 (0.92%) for HIV. Ninety-two percent of HIV-positive patients were successfully linked to care. Late presenters were less frequent in this sample than in the population diagnosed with HIV in Italy in 2014. An overall 7% proportion of HIV, HBV, HCV, and syphilis-unaware cases were all transferred to care, with the exception of three people. HIV seropositivity among testers was higher than 2/1000, the cost-effectiveness threshold suggested for effective testing. Therefore, our Web-based unrestricted and free access methodology appears worth further and wider evaluation.

High prevalence and excess mortality of late presenters among HIV-1, HIV-2 and HIV-1/2 dually infected patients in Guinea-Bissau - a cohort study from West Africa

Introduction

HIV infected individuals with late presentation (LP) and advanced disease (AD) have been associated with higher mortality, higher cost of medical management, impaired CD4 cell count increment and potentially ongoing risk of HIV transmission. Here we describe the proportion of patients with LP and AD at an HIV clinic in Guinea-Bissau, identify risk factors and evaluate the outcome of these patients.

Methods

We included all patients >15 years diagnosed with HIV-1 and/or HIV-2 at the outpatient HIV clinic at Hospital National Simão Mendes, during June 2005 - December 2013 in a retrospective cohort study. Patients were followed until December 2014. LP and AD was defined as a baseline CD4 cell count of 200-349 cells/µL and <200 cells/µL, respectively.

Results

A total of 3,720/5,562 (65.7%) patients had a CD4 cell count measured within the first 90 days of HIV diagnosis. Forty-eight percent had AD and 23% had LP. Risk factors for presentation with AD were male sex, age >30 years, Fula and Mandinga ethnicity. HIV-2 and HIV-1/2 dually infected patients had lower risk of AD compared with HIV-1 infected patients. Although antiretroviral therapy (ART) was initiated for 64.4% of patients, those with AD progression had a 3.82 times higher mortality compared to patients with non-LP.

Conclusion

The majority of HIV infected patients presented late. Most of the late-presenters had advanced disease and patients with advanced disease had a very high mortality. Initiatives to enroll patients in care at an earlier point are needed and should focus on risk groups.

Late Presentation of HIV Infection: Prevalence, Trends, and the Role of HIV Testing Strategies in Guangzhou, China, 2008-2013

Background. The prevalence, trends, and the role of different HIV testing strategies in late presentation of HIV infection in China were unknown. Methods. Data of newly reported HIV cases in Guangzhou between 2008 and 2013 was analyzed to examine the prevalence, trends, and characteristics of late presentation of HIV infection by three types of HIV testing strategies. Results. Overall, 53.2% (1412/2653) and 27.3% (724/2653) met the criteria of late presentation and presentation with advanced HIV disease. The overall trend of late presentation of HIV infection within the study period was declining. Late presentation was 62.9% in 2008 and dropped to 43.3% in 2013 (P < 0.001); presentation with advanced HIV disease was 40.3% in 2008 and dropped to 15.2% in 2013 (P < 0.001). Of the three testing strategies, PITC presented higher odds of both late presentation [AOR (95% CI): PITC versus VCT: 1.37 (1.09, 1.73); PITC versus MHT: 3.09 (2.16, 4.42)] and presentation with advanced HIV disease [AOR (95% CI): PITC versus VCT: 1.65 (1.29, 2.11); PITC versus MHT: 13.14 (8.47, 20.39)]. Conclusions. Although the late presentation of HIV infection was declining, it was still high in Guangzhou. The worse situation among PITC cases urges the policy adjustment in medical settings to increase early HIV diagnosis.

Symptomatic Patients without Epidemiological Indicators of HIV Have a High Risk of Missed Diagnosis: A Multi-Centre Cross Sectional Study

Objectives

One quarter of HIV-1 positive individuals in Sweden present for care with HIV or AIDS associated conditions without an HIV test (missed presentations) and 16% report neglect of such symptoms. The objective of this study was to identify risk factors for these missed opportunities of HIV-1 diagnosis.

Methods

A national study, recruiting 409 newly diagnosed HIV-1 infected adults over a 2.5-year period, was performed. Logistic regression models tested the relationship between missed presentation and patient’s neglect versus socio-demographic and behavioural risk factors. Additionally the initiator of the HIV test was assessed.

Results

The odds for a missed presentation was lower for migrants (from East Europe, Asia, and Pacific (East): OR 0.4 (0.2–0.8); Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA): 0.3 (0.2–0.6); other: 0.5 (0.2–1.0)), compared to patients born in Sweden, just as symptoms neglected by the patient (East (0.3 (0.1–1.0); SSA (0.4 (0.2–0.8)). The latter was also lower for men who have sex with men (0.5 (0.2–1.0)), compared to patients infected heterosexually. Patients infected in the East, with present/previous substance use or a previous negative HIV test were more likely to take the initiative to test on their own, whereas those >50 years and with a previously missed presentation had significantly reduced odds, p<0.05.

Conclusions

Individuals without epidemiological indicators of HIV are more likely to have a history of missed presentations, to neglect symptoms and are less prone to take an initiative to test for HIV themselves. It is important to further implement testing to include all patients with symptoms and conditions indicative of HIV.

Five-year risk of HIV diagnosis subsequent to 147 hospital-based indicator diseases: a Danish nationwide population-based cohort study

Background

It has been suggested that targeted human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing programs are cost-effective in populations with an HIV prevalence >0.1%. Several indicator diseases are known to be associated with increased risk of HIV infection, but estimates of HIV frequency in persons with relevant indicator diseases are nonexistent.

Methods

In a nationwide population-based cohort study encompassing all Danish residents aged 20–60 years during 1994–2013, we estimated the 5-year risk of an HIV diagnosis (FYRHD) after a first-time diagnosis of 147 prespecified potential indicator diseases. To estimate the risk of HIV diagnosis in the general population without any indicator diseases, we calculated the FYRHD starting at age 25, 35, 45, and 55 years.

Results

The risk in the male general population was substantially higher than the female general population, and the risk was lower in the older age categories. Individuals of African origin had a higher FYRHD than individuals of Danish origin. A number of diseases were identified with a FYRHD >0.1%, with infectious diseases, such as syphilis, hepatitis, and endocarditis, associated with a particularly high FYRHD. Other potential indicator diseases, such as most urologic, nephrologic, rheumatologic, and endocrine disorders were generally associated with a low FYRHD.

Conclusion

Our study identified a large number of indicator diseases associated with a FYRHD >0.1%. These data can be used as a tool for planning targeted HIV screening programs.

Examining the health and health service utilization of heterosexual men with HIV: a community-informed scoping review

The prevalence of HIV infection among heterosexual men has increased. Consequently, the need for health and support services for this group is likely to increase. We conducted a scoping review of studies regarding the health and health service use of heterosexual men with HIV that was informed by research priorities identified by this community. We searched six databases from inception to August 2014. We included all English-language qualitative and quantitative studies examining the health and health service use of heterosexual men with HIV. Our search strategy yielded 2665 references, of which 70 were included in the scoping review. We summarized the research into the following domains identified by summit participants: treatment of HIV and its complications (n = 9), health and social support services utilization (n = 27), social determinants of health (n = 20), prevention (n = 11), family planning (n = 4) and psychosocial research (n = 33). Key findings from the review included poor mental health-related well-being, over-representation among "late presenters" to care and greater fear of disclosure of HIV status relative to men who have sex with men. In general, research conducted to date was not well aligned with the priorities identified by the community.

The risk of late or advanced presentation of HIV infected patients is still high, associated factors evolve but impact on overall mortality is vanishing over calendar years: results from the Italian MASTER Cohort

BACKGROUND

We aimed at evaluating frequency and factors associated with late presentation and advanced HIV disease and excess risk of death due to these conditions from 1985 to 2013 among naïve HIV infected patients enrolled in the Italian MASTER Cohort.

METHODS

All antiretroviral naive adults with available CD4+ T cell count after diagnosis of HIV infection were included. Multivariable logistic regression analysis investigated factors associated either with late presentation or advanced HIV disease. Probabilities of survival were estimated both at year-1 and at year-5 according to the Kaplan-Meier method. Flexible parametric models were used to evaluate changes in risk of death overtime according to late presentation and advanced HIV disease. The analyses were stratified for calendar periods.

RESULTS

19,391 patients were included (54 % were late presenters and 37.6 % were advanced presenters). At multivariable analysis, the following factors were positively associated with late presentation: male gender (OR = 1.29), older age (≥55 years vs. <25 years; OR = 7.45), migration (OR = 1.54), and heterosexual risk factor for HIV acquisition (OR = 1.52) or IDU (OR = 1.27) compared to homosexual risk. Survival rates at year-5 increased steadily and reached 92.1 % for late presenters vs. 97.4 % for non-late presenters enrolled in the period 2004-2009. Using flexible parametric models we found a sustained reduction of hazard ratios over time for any cause deaths between late and non-late presenters over time. Similar results were found for advanced HIV disease.

CONCLUSION

Screening polices need to be urgently implemented, particularly in most-at-risk categories for late presentation, such as migrants, older patients and those with heterosexual intercourse or IDU as risk factors for HIV acquisition. Although in recent years the impact of late presentation on survival decreased, about 10 % of patients diagnosed in more recent years remains at increased risk of death over a long-term follow-up.

Late presentation to HIV/AIDS care in Brazil among men who self-identify as heterosexual

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the factors associated with late presentation to HIV/AIDS services among heterosexual men.

METHODS

Men infected by HIV who self-identified as heterosexual (n = 543) were included in the study. Descriptive, biivariate and logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate the factors associated with late presentation (defined as individuals whose first CD4 count was <350 cells/mm³) in the study population.

RESULTS

The prevalence of late presentation was 69.8%. The multivariate logistic analysis showed testing initiated by the provider (OR_adjusted 3.75; 95%CI 2.45–5.63) increased the odds of late presentation. History of drug use (OR_adjusted 0.59; 95%CI 0.38–0.91), history of having sexually transmitted infections (OR_adjusted 0.64; 95%CI 0.42–0.97), and having less education (OR_adjusted 0.63; 95%CI 0.41–0.97) were associated with a decreased odds of LP.

CONCLUSIONS

Provider initiated testing was the only variable to increase the odds of late presentation. Since the patients in this sample all self-identified as heterosexual, it appears that providers are not requesting they be tested for HIV until the patients are already presenting symptoms of AIDS. The high prevalence of late presentation provides additional evidence to shift towards routine testing and linkage to care, rather than risk-based strategies that may not effectively or efficiently engage individuals infected with HIV.

The late-presenting HIV-infected patient 30 years after the introduction of HIV testing: spectrum of opportunistic diseases and missed opportunities for early diagnosis

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to describe the characteristics of HIV-infected late presenters, opportunistic diseases at diagnosis and missed opportunities to diagnose HIV infection earlier.

METHODS

In a retrospective cohort study, we reviewed the medical records of all adults with newly diagnosed HIV infection admitted to the Department of Infectious Diseases of the Vivantes Auguste-Viktoria Hospital, Berlin, Germany.

RESULTS

In the 5-year period from 2009 to 2013, 270 late presenters were identified. The most common AIDS-defining conditions were oesophageal candidiasis (n = 136; 51%), wasting syndrome (n = 106; 40%) and pneumocystis pneumonia (n = 91; 34%). Fifty-five patients (21%) had presented with at least one HIV indicator condition on prior contact with health care services without being offered testing for HIV. Female patients and heterosexual men [not men who have sex with men ('non-MSM')] had a significantly higher chance of being among patients previously presenting with indicator conditions and not being tested [odds ratio (OR) 4.7; 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.2-10.0; P < 0.001; and OR 2.4; 95% CI 1.2-5.1; P < 0.01, respectively]. The most commonly missed indicator conditions were leucocytopenia (n = 13; 24%), thrombocytopenia (n = 12; 22%), oral candidiasis (n = 9; 16%), unexplained weight loss (n = 7; 13%), herpes zoster (n = 5; 9%) and cervical dysplasia/cancer (n = 4; 20% of women). The median time between presentation with an indicator condition and the diagnosis of HIV infection was 158.5 days [interquartile range (IQR) 40-572 days]. Patients with oral candidiasis and unexplained weight loss had the shortest time between the "missed opportunity" and the diagnosis of HIV infection. Fifty-five hospital admissions with a total cost of over EUR 500 000 and - most importantly - six in-hospital deaths might have been prevented if HIV testing had been performed in patients with documented indicator conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

Indicator conditions are still missed by clinicians. Women and 'non-MSM' are at highest risk of presenting with an indicator condition but not being tested for HIV infection.

Immune recovery in HIV-infected patients after Candida esophagitis is impaired despite long-term antiretroviral therapy

OBJECTIVE

Candida esophagitis belongs to the most common AIDS-defining diseases; however, a comprehensive immune pathogenic concept is lacking.

DESIGN

We investigated the immune status of 37 HIV-1-infected patients from the Swiss HIV cohort study at diagnosis of Candida esophagitis, 1 year before, 1 year later and after 2 years of suppressed HIV RNA. We compared these patients with three groups: 37 HIV-1-infected patients without Candida esophagitis but similar CD4 cell counts as the patients at diagnosis (advanced HIV group), 15 HIV-1-infected patients with CD4 cell counts higher than 500 cells/μl, CD4 cell nadirs higher than 350 cells/μl and suppressed HIV RNA under combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) (early cART group) and 20 healthy individuals.

METHODS

We investigated phenotype, cytokine production and proliferative capacity of different immune cells by flow cytometry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent spot.

RESULTS

We found that patients with Candida esophagitis had nearly abolished CD4 cell proliferation in response to Candida albicans, significantly increased percentages of dysfunctional CD4 cells, significantly decreased cytotoxic natural killer cell counts and peripheral innate lymphoid cell counts and significantly reduced IFN-γ and IL-17 production compared with the early cART group and healthy individuals. Most of these defects remained for more than 2 years despite viral suppression. The advanced HIV group without opportunistic infection showed partly improved immune recovery.

CONCLUSION

Our data indicate that Candida esophagitis in HIV-1-infected patients is caused by an accumulation of multiple, partly Candida-specific immunological defects. Long-term immune recovery is impaired, illustrating that specific immunological gaps persist despite cART. These data also support the rationale for early cART initiation to prevent irreversible immune defects.

Stable patients and patients with advanced disease: consensus definitions to support sustained scale up of antiretroviral therapy

OBJECTIVE

As guidelines are evolving towards recommending starting antiretroviral therapy (ART) in all HIV-positive individuals irrespective of clinical and immunological status, HIV programmes will be challenged to manage an increasingly diverse set of patient needs. To support global guideline recommendations for differentiated service delivery, WHO developed consensus definitions for two distinct patient populations: patients presenting with advanced disease and patients who are stable on ART.

METHODS

An expert panel consisting of 73 respondents from 28 countries across all six WHO regions supported the development of these definitions. The panel included clinicians, researchers, programme managers, technical advisors and patient group representatives.

RESULTS

Patients presenting with advanced disease at presentation to care were defined as CD4 count <200 CD4 cells/mm(3) or WHO Stage III & IV defining illness. Patients stable on ART were defined as those who were receiving ART for at least 1 year with no adverse drug reactions requiring regular monitoring, no current illnesses or pregnancy, a good understanding of lifelong adherence, and evidence of treatment success. Treatment success was defined as two consecutive undetectable viral load measures or, in the absence of viral load monitoring, rising CD4 counts or CD4 counts above 200 cells/mm(3) and an objective adherence measure.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients who are stable on ART should be offered a less intensive care package that can lead to improved outcomes while saving resources, including less frequent clinic visits, out-of-clinic drug refills and reduced laboratory monitoring. This will allow for clinic resources to be directed towards reducing morbidity and mortality among patients presenting with advanced disease.

Heterogeneity of community-based voluntary, counselling and testing services for HIV in Europe: the HIV-COBATEST survey

This study reports the first EU-wide survey of community-based voluntary counselling and testing services (CBVCTs), with the following aims: to assess the current availability of CBVCTs and how the concept of CBVCT is understood; to describe CBVCT modalities and strategies; and to measure the use of rapid tests within CBVCTs. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in two different key informant groups: HIV/AIDS National Focal Points (NFPs) and CBVCTs from the EU and European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries. A definition of CBVCTs was reached. Descriptive and correspondence analyses were performed. The COBATEST survey was answered by NFPs from 25 of the 32 EU/EFTA countries (response rate of 78.1%), and by 55 CBVCTs in 22 different countries. CBVCTs were functioning in nearly all the responding countries, but only 56% explicitly included them in their national strategic plans. In those that had CBVCTs, the NFPs often lacked reliable information on CBVCTs. In general, CBVCTs in Europe are focused mainly on men who have sex with men, are primarily peer-driven and highly communitarised, whereas CBVCTs targeting other at-risk populations are more medicalised. In addition, the oral test is under-used and in general test performance is highly medicalised. Results show that there is a wide heterogeneity of CBVCTs in Europe, which is varied and highly medicalised. The data provided in this study in conjunction with other deliverables produced by the COBATEST project should contribute to the development of standardised indicators to enable comparisons over time and eventually improve the effectiveness of CBVCTs across Europe.

Factors associated with the level of CD4 cell counts at HIV diagnosis in a French cohort: a quantile regression approach

The consensus definition of late presentation for human immunodeficiency virus patient based on a CD4 threshold of 350 cells/mm³ has limitations concerning risk factors identification since there is growing biomedical justification for earlier initiation of treatment. The objective was to overcome this problem by simultaneously determining factors associated with different levels of CD4 counts at the time of diagnosis. Between January 2000 and July 2014, 1179 patients with a first human immunodeficiency virus diagnosis and entering care in a French human immunodeficiency virus reference center were enrolled. Factors associated with each 5 percentile from 5th to 95th quantile of CD4 counts at diagnosis were simultaneously studied in a multivariable quantile regression model. At each of the quantiles, the factors identified as negatively associated with CD4 count at diagnosis were older age, male sex , foreign patients, hepatitis B virus or hepatitis C virus co-infection, employment status, non-MSM transmission, heterosexual transmission, suburban and rural's place of residence and earlier period of diagnosis. Association with CD4 count was not uniformly significant, most factors being significant for some quantiles. The only significant determinant for all quantiles was being born in a foreign country. These results are particularly helpful in the context of human immunodeficiency virus clinical care, management and prevention.

Response to First-Line Ritonavir-Boosted Protease Inhibitors (PI/r)-Based Regimens in HIV Positive Patients Presenting to Care with Low CD4 Counts: Data from the Icona Foundation Cohort

BACKGROUND

There are no data comparing the response to PI/r-based regimens in people presenting for care with low CD4 counts or AIDS (LC).

AIM

To compare the response to LPV/r-, DRV/r- or ATV/r-based cART regimens in LC initiating cART from ART-naive.

METHODS

We included people enrolled in Icona with either CD4 counts ≤350 cells/mm3 (low CD4-LC) or CD4 counts ≤200 cells/mm3 (very low CD4-VLC) and/or AIDS, starting their first PI/r-based regimen after 2008. Initial regimens were compared by intention-to-treat: i) time to viral failure (VF) (first of 2 consecutive VL>200 copies/mL after≥6 months); II) time to PI/r discontinuation/switching for any cause (TD) and for toxicity (TDT); III) treatment failure (TF) (VF or TD). Kaplan-Meier and Cox analyses were used.

RESULTS

1,362 LC patients were included (DRV/r 607; ATV/r 552; LPV/r 203); 813 VLC. In a median of 18 months (IQR:7-35), the 1-year probability of VF and TF were 2.8% (1.9-3.8) and 21.1% (18.7-23.4). In the adjusted analysis, patients initiating ATV/r had a 53% lower chance, and those initiating DRV/r a 61% lower chance of TD, as compared to LPV/r; the risk of TF was more likely in people starting LPV/r. Results were similar among VLC; in this subgroup LPV/r including regimens demonstrated a lower chance of VF.

CONCLUSIONS

We confirmed in LC a low chance of virological failure by 1 year, with small differences according to PI/r. However, larger differences were observed when comparing longer-term endpoints such as treatment failure. These results are important for people presenting late for care.

Long-Term Mortality in HIV-Infected Individuals 50 Years or Older: A Nationwide, Population-Based Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Although the prevalence of HIV-infection among individuals ≥ 50 years of age has increased, the impact of HIV-infection on risk of death in this population remains to be established. Our aim was to estimate long-term mortality among HIV-infected individuals who were 50 years or older, when compared with an individually-matched cohort from the background population.

METHODS

Population-based cohort-study including HIV-infected individuals ≥ 50 years, who were alive 1 year after HIV-diagnosis (n = 2440) and a comparison cohort individually-matched by age and gender extracted from the background population (n = 14,588). Cumulative survival was evaluated using Kaplan-Meier method and Mortality Rate Ratios (MRRs) were estimated using Cox Regression Models. Study period 1996-2014.

RESULTS

Estimated median survival time from age 50 years for HIV-infected individuals increased from 11.8 years (95% CI: 10.2 to 14.5) during 1996-1999 to 22.8 years (20.0-24.2) in 2006-2014. MRR decreased with increasing age from 3.8 (3.1-4.7) for 50-55 years to 1.6 (1.0-2.6) for 75-80 years. In a cohort of well-treated HIV-infected individuals ≥ 50 years without AIDS-defining events or comorbidity at study inclusion (n = 517). MRR was 1.7 (1.2-2.3) compared with population controls without comorbidity.

CONCLUSION

Among HIV-infected individuals estimated median survival time from age 50 years has increased by more than 10 years from 1996-1999 to 2006-2014, but is still substantially lower than in the background population. Even among well-treated HIV-infected individuals ≥ 50 years without comorbidity or AIDS-defining events the estimated median survival time remains lower than in the general population.

Characteristics and Outcome of Patients With AIDS in Dutch ICUs Between 1997 and 2014

OBJECTIVE

Knowledge on characteristics and outcome of ICU patients with AIDS is highly limited. We aimed to determine the main reasons for admission and outcome in ICU patients with AIDS and trends over time therein.

DESIGN

A retrospective study within the Dutch National Intensive Care Evaluation registry.

SETTING

Dutch ICUs.

PATIENTS

We used data collected between 1997 and 2014. Characteristics of patients with AIDS were compared with ICU patients without AIDS, matched for age, sex, admission type, and admission year. Joinpoint regression analysis was applied to study trends over time.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

We included 1,127 patients with AIDS and 4,479 matched controls. The main admission diagnoses of patients with AIDS were respiratory infection (28.6%) and sepsis (16.9%), which were less common in controls (7.7% and 7.5%, respectively; both p < 0.0001). Patients with AIDS had increased severity of illness and in-hospital mortality (28.2% vs 17.8%; p < 0.0001) compared with controls, which was associated with a higher rate of infections at admission in patients with AIDS (58.4% vs 25.5%). Over time, the proportion of patients with AIDS admitted with an infection decreased (75% in 1999 to 56% in 2013). Mortality declined in patients with AIDS (39% in 1999 to 16% in 2013), both in patients with or without an infection. Mortality also declined in matched controls without AIDS, but to a lesser extent.

CONCLUSION

Infections are still the main reason for ICU admission in patients with AIDS, but their prevalence is declining. Outcome of patients with AIDS continued to improve during a time of widespread availability of combination antiretroviral therapy, and mortality is reaching levels similar to ICU patients without AIDS.

Estimating HIV Incidence, Time to Diagnosis, and the Undiagnosed HIV Epidemic Using Routine Surveillance Data

BACKGROUND

Estimates of the size of the undiagnosed HIV-infected population are important to understand the HIV epidemic and to plan interventions, including "test-and-treat" strategies.

METHODS

We developed a multi-state back-calculation model to estimate HIV incidence, time between infection and diagnosis, and the undiagnosed population by CD4 count strata, using surveillance data on new HIV and AIDS diagnoses. The HIV incidence curve was modelled using cubic splines. The model was tested on simulated data and applied to surveillance data on men who have sex with men in The Netherlands.

RESULTS

The number of HIV infections could be estimated accurately using simulated data, with most values within the 95% confidence intervals of model predictions. When applying the model to Dutch surveillance data, 15,400 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 15,000, 16,000) men who have sex with men were estimated to have been infected between 1980 and 2011. HIV incidence showed a bimodal distribution, with peaks around 1985 and 2005 and a decline in recent years. Mean time to diagnosis was 6.1 (95% CI = 5.8, 6.4) years between 1984 and 1995 and decreased to 2.6 (2.3, 3.0) years in 2011. By the end of 2011, 11,500 (11,000, 12,000) men who have sex with men in The Netherlands were estimated to be living with HIV, of whom 1,750 (1,450, 2,200) were still undiagnosed. Of the undiagnosed men who have sex with men, 29% (22, 37) were infected for less than 1 year, and 16% (13, 20) for more than 5 years.

CONCLUSIONS

This multi-state back-calculation model will be useful to estimate HIV incidence, time to diagnosis, and the undiagnosed HIV epidemic based on routine surveillance data.

Late presentation for HIV care across Europe: update from the Collaboration of Observational HIV Epidemiological Research Europe (COHERE) study, 2010 to 2013

Late presentation (LP) for HIV care across Europe remains a significant issue. We provide a cross-European update from 34 countries on the prevalence and risk factors of LP for 2010-2013. People aged ≥ 16 presenting for HIV care (earliest of HIV-diagnosis, first clinic visit or cohort enrollment) after 1 January 2010 with available CD4 count within six months of presentation were included. LP was defined as presentation with a CD4 count < 350/mm(3) or an AIDS defining event (at any CD4), in the six months following HIV diagnosis. Logistic regression investigated changes in LP over time. A total of 30,454 people were included. The median CD4 count at presentation was 368/mm(3) (interquartile range (IQR) 193-555/mm(3)), with no change over time (p = 0.70). In 2010, 4,775/10,766 (47.5%) were LP whereas in 2013, 1,642/3,375 (48.7%) were LP (p = 0.63). LP was most common in central Europe (4,791/9,625, 49.8%), followed by northern (5,704/11,692; 48.8%), southern (3,550/7,760; 45.8%) and eastern Europe (541/1,377; 38.3%; p < 0.0001). There was a significant increase in LP in male and female people who inject drugs (PWID) (adjusted odds ratio (aOR)/year later 1.16; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.02-1.32), and a significant decline in LP in northern Europe (aOR/year later 0.89; 95% CI: 0.85-0.94). Further improvements in effective HIV testing strategies, with a focus on vulnerable groups, are required across the European continent.

Efficacy and safety of once-daily ritonavir-boosted atazanavir or darunavir in combination with a dual nucleos(t)ide analogue backbone in HIV-1-infected combined ART (cART)-naive patients with severe immunosuppression: a 48 week, non-comparative, randomized, multicentre trial (IMEA 040 DATA trial)

OBJECTIVES

Boosted PIs are commonly prescribed in patients presenting with advanced HIV infection. We assessed the efficacy and tolerability of once-daily ritonavir-boosted atazanavir or darunavir plus two NRTIs in HIV-1-infected ART-naive patients with severe immunosuppression, targeting at least an 85% success rate at week 48.

METHODS

This 48 week, open-label, non-comparative, randomized, multicentre trial included ART-naive patients with CD4 cell counts <200 cells/mm(3), with plasma HIV-1 RNA >1000 copies/mL and without genotypic mutations conferring resistance to the study drugs. Patients were randomized (1:1) to receive once-daily atazanavir/ritonavir (300/100 mg) or darunavir/ritonavir (800/100 mg) plus tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine or abacavir/lamivudine. The primary endpoint was treatment success, defined as plasma HIV-1 RNA ≤50 copies/mL at week 48 and no permanent PI/ritonavir discontinuation. The study was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01928407).

RESULTS

One hundred and twenty patients were enrolled: 77% were men, 30% were born in Africa and 39% had AIDS. The median baseline CD4 and plasma HIV-RNA values were 69 cells/mm(3) and 5.4 log10 copies/mL. All but four patients received tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine. The week 48 treatment success rate was 66% (95% CI 54%-78%) with atazanavir/ritonavir and 80% (95% CI 68%-89%) with darunavir/ritonavir. The median CD4 cell count increased similarly in the two groups (Δweek 48 to week 0: +194 cells/mm(3)). Adverse events occurred in 23 and 18 patients, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite good adherence, neither study regimen reached the predefined objective, suggesting a need for more potent regimens for patients with advanced HIV infection.

Predictors of opportunistic illnesses incidence in post combination antiretroviral therapy era in an urban cohort from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Background

Opportunistic illnesses still account for a huge proportion of hospitalizations and deaths among HIV-infected patients in the post combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) era, particularly in middle- and low-income countries. The aim of this study was to assess predictors of the top four most incident opportunistic illnesses (tuberculosis, esophageal candidiasis, cerebral toxoplasmosis and Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia) in an HIV clinical cohort from a middle-income country in the post cART era.

Methods

A total of 2835 HIV infected participants aged ≥ 18 years at enrollment were followed from January 2000 to December 2012 until the occurrence of their first opportunistic illness, death or end of study, whichever occurred first. Extended Cox proportional hazards regression models, stratified by use of cART, were fitted to assess predictors of opportunistic illness incidence during follow-up.

Results

The incidence rates of tuberculosis, esophageal candidiasis, cerebral toxoplasmosis and Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia were 15.3, 8.6, 6.0, 4.8 per 1000 persons-year, respectively. Disease specific adjusted Cox models showed that presence of an opportunistic illness at enrollment significantly increased disease incidence while higher nadir CD4+ T lymphocyte count had a significant protective effect in patients not in use of cART. Duration of cART use also significantly reduced disease incidence.

Conclusions

Our findings show that, still in the post-cART era, prevention of opportunistic infections can be achieved by preventing immune deterioration by instituting early use of cART. Interventions focusing on early diagnosis and linkage to care in addition to the prompt initiation of cART are essential to reduce the incidence of opportunistic illnesses among HIV infected patients in post-cART era.

The impact of the menopause transition on the health and wellbeing of women living with HIV: A narrative review

Improvements in survival due to advances in antiretroviral therapy (ART) have led to a shift in the age distribution of those receiving HIV care, with increasing numbers of women living with HIV (WLHIV) reaching menopausal age. We present a narrative literature review of 26 studies exploring the menopause transition in WLHIV, focusing on: (1) natural history (2) symptomatology and management, and (3) immunologic and virologic effects. Data are conflicting on the association between HIV and earlier age at menopause, and the role of HIV-specific factors such as HIV viral load and CD4 count. There are some data to suggest that WLHIV experience more vasomotor and psychological symptoms during the menopause than HIV-negative women, and that uptake of hormone replacement therapy by WLHIV is comparatively low. There is no evidence that menopause affects either CD4 count or response to ART, although there may be increased immune activation in older WLHIV. We conclude that menopause in WLHIV is a neglected area of study. Specific information gaps include qualitative studies on experiences of reproductive ageing; data on the impact of the menopause on women's quality of life and ability to adhere to health-sustaining behaviors; as well as studies investigating the safety and efficacy of pharmacological and psychosocial interventions. There is likely to be a burden of unmet health need among this growing population, and better data are required to inform optimal provision of care, supporting WLHIV to maintain their health and wellbeing into their post-reproductive years.

TOGETHER Project to Increase Understanding of the HIV Epidemic Among Sub-Saharan African Migrants: Protocol of Community-Based Participatory Mixed-Method Studies

Background

Sub-Saharan African Migrants (SAM) are the second largest group affected by HIV/AIDS in Belgium and the rest of Western Europe. Increasing evidence shows that, more than previously thought, SAM are acquiring HIV in their host countries. This calls for a renewed focus on primary prevention. Yet, knowledge on the magnitude of the HIV epidemic among SAM (HIV prevalence estimates and proportions of undiagnosed HIV infections) and underlying drivers are scarce and limit the development of such interventions.

Objective

By applying a community-based participatory and mixed-methods approach, the TOGETHER project aims to deepen our understanding of HIV transmission dynamics, as well as inform future primary prevention interventions for this target group.

Methods

The TOGETHER project consists of a cross-sectional study to assess HIV prevalence and risk factors among SAM visiting community settings in Antwerp city, Belgium, and links an anonymous electronic self-reported questionnaire to oral fluid samples. Three formative studies informed this method: (1) a social mapping of community settings using an adaptation of the PLACE method; (2) a multiple case study aiming to identify factors that increase risk and vulnerability for HIV infection by triangulating data from life history interviews, lifelines, and patient files; and (3) an acceptability and feasibility study of oral fluid sampling in community settings using participant observations.

Results

Results have been obtained from 4 interlinked studies and will be described in future research.

Conclusions

Combining empirically tested and innovative epidemiological and social science methods, this project provides the first HIV prevalence estimates for a representative sample of SAM residing in a West European city. By triangulating qualitative and quantitative insights, the project will generate an in-depth understanding of the factors that increase risk and vulnerability for HIV infection among SAM. Based on this knowledge, the project will identify priority subgroups within SAM communities and places for HIV prevention. Adopting a community-based participatory approach throughout the full research process should increase community ownership, investment, and mobilization for HIV prevention.

Reasons for not starting antiretroviral therapy in HIV-1-infected individuals: a changing landscape

PURPOSE

A cross-sectional survey was conducted to better understand why chronically HIV-1-infected individuals stratified by CD4 count (≤349; 350-499; ≥500 cells/μL) were not on antiretroviral therapy (ART).

METHODS

Before the consultation, treatment-naive patients and their physicians independently completed a 90-item-questionnaire about barriers and their readiness to start/defer ART. The study was carried out at 34 sites in nine countries in Europe and Australia.

RESULTS

Between December 2011 and October 2012, 508 pairs of patient- and physician-questionnaires were completed. 426 (84 %) patients were male and 39 (8 %), 138 (27 %), and 330 (65 %) were in the three stratified groups based on CD4 count, respectively. In the category 'Body and symptoms' the most commonly identified reason for patients not to start was: "As long as I feel good I don't have to take medication" (44 %). Less than 20 % of respondents indicated fears of side effects and toxicity or problems to manage pills. Most patients were in the lowest stage of treatment-readiness (N = 323, 68 %), especially patients with CD4 cells ≥500 cells/μL (N = 240, 79 %). Physicians answered in 92 (18 %) cases that ART was not indicated for CD4 cells <500 cells/μL. Main reasons for physicians not starting treatment for these patients were their perception that patients were 'too depressed' (13 %) or that they had not known them long enough (13 %).

CONCLUSIONS

Nowadays patient-barriers to ART are commonly related to health-and treatment-beliefs compared to fear of toxicity or ART manageability in the past. This new barrier pattern seems to reflect the era of well tolerated, easier ART regimens and has to be considered in light of the new recommendations to treat all HIV-infected individuals regardless of the CD4 cell count.

Unmatched Case-Control Study on Late Presentation of HIV Infection in Santiago, Cape Verde (2004-2011)

Access to free antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Sub-Saharan Africa has been steadily increasing over the past decade. However, the success of large-scale ART programmes depends on timely diagnosis and early initiation of HIV care. This study characterizes late presenters to HIV care in Santiago (Cape Verde) between 2004 and 2011, and identifies factors associated with late presentation for care. We defined late presentation as persons presenting to HIV care with a CD4 count below 350 cells/mm³. An unmatched case-control study was conducted using socio-demographic and behavioural data of 368 individuals (191 cases and 177 controls) collected through an interviewer-administered questionnaire, comparing HIV patients late and early presented to care. Logistic regression was performed to estimate odds ratio and 95% confidence intervals. Results show that 51.9% were late presenters for HIV. No differences were found in gender distribution, marital status, or access to health services between cases and controls. Participants who undertook an HIV test by doctor indication were more likely to present late compared with those who tested for HIV by their own initiative. Also, individuals taking less time to initiate ART are more likely to present late. This study highlights the need to better understand reasons for late presentation to HIV care in Cape Verde. People in older age groups should be targeted in future approaches focused on late presenters to HIV care.

Tuberculosis-related mortality in people living with HIV in Europe and Latin America: an international cohort study

BACKGROUND

Management of tuberculosis in patients with HIV in eastern Europe is complicated by the high prevalence of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis, low rates of drug susceptibility testing, and poor access to antiretroviral therapy (ART). We report 1 year mortality estimates from a multiregional (eastern Europe, western Europe, and Latin America) prospective cohort study: the TB:HIV study.

METHODS

Consecutive HIV-positive patients aged 16 years or older with a diagnosis of tuberculosis between Jan 1, 2011, and Dec 31, 2013, were enrolled from 62 HIV and tuberculosis clinics in 19 countries in eastern Europe, western Europe, and Latin America. The primary endpoint was death within 12 months after starting tuberculosis treatment; all deaths were classified according to whether or not they were tuberculosis related. Follow-up was either until death, the final visit, or 12 months after baseline, whichever occurred first. Risk factors for all-cause and tuberculosis-related deaths were assessed using Kaplan-Meier estimates and Cox models.

FINDINGS

Of 1406 patients (834 in eastern Europe, 317 in western Europe, and 255 in Latin America), 264 (19%) died within 12 months. 188 (71%) of these deaths were tuberculosis related. The probability of all-cause death was 29% (95% CI 26-32) in eastern Europe, 4% (3-7) in western Europe, and 11% (8-16) in Latin America (p<0·0001) and the corresponding probabilities of tuberculosis-related death were 23% (20-26), 1% (0-3), and 4% (2-8), respectively (p<0·0001). Patients receiving care outside eastern Europe had a 77% decreased risk of death: adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 0·23 (95% CI 0·16-0·31). In eastern Europe, compared with patients who started a regimen with at least three active antituberculosis drugs, those who started fewer than three active antituberculosis drugs were at a higher risk of tuberculosis-related death (aHR 3·17; 95% CI 1·83-5·49) as were those who did not have baseline drug-susceptibility tests (2·24; 1·31-3·83). Other prognostic factors for increased tuberculosis-related mortality were disseminated tuberculosis and a low CD4 cell count. 18% of patients were receiving ART at tuberculosis diagnosis in eastern Europe compared with 44% in western Europe and 39% in Latin America (p<0·0001); 12 months later the proportions were 67% in eastern Europe, 92% in western Europe, and 85% in Latin America (p<0·0001).

INTERPRETATION

Patients with HIV and tuberculosis in eastern Europe have a risk of death nearly four-times higher than that in patients from western Europe and Latin America. This increased mortality rate is associated with modifiable risk factors such as lack of drug susceptibility testing and suboptimal initial antituberculosis treatment in settings with a high prevalence of drug resistance. Urgent action is needed to improve tuberculosis care for patients living with HIV in eastern Europe.

FUNDING

EU Seventh Framework Programme.

Late Presentation into Care of HIV Disease and Its Associated Factors in Asia: Results of TAHOD

Many HIV-infected individuals do not enter health care until late in the infection course. Despite encouraging earlier testing, this situation has continued for several years. We investigated the prevalence of late presenters and factors associated with late presentation among HIV-infected patients in an Asian regional cohort. This cohort study included HIV-infected patients with their first positive HIV test during 2003-2012 and CD4 count and clinical status data within 3 months of that test. Factors associated with late presentation into care (CD4 count <200 cells/μl or an AIDS-defining event within ±3 months of first positive HIV test) were analyzed in a random effects logistic regression model. Among 3,744 patients, 2,681 (72%) were late presenters. In the multivariable model, older patients were more likely to be late presenters than younger (≤30 years) patients [31-40, 41-50, and ≥51 years: odds ratio (OR) = 1.57, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.31-1.88; OR = 2.01, 95% CI 1.58-2.56; and OR = 1.69, 95% CI 1.23-2.31, respectively; all p ≤ 0.001]. Injecting drug users (IDU) were more likely (OR = 2.15, 95% CI 1.42-3.27, p < 0.001) and those with homosexual HIV exposure were less likely (OR = 0.45, 95% CI 0.35-0.58, p < 0.001) to be late presenters compared to those with heterosexual HIV exposure. Females were less likely to be late presenters (OR = 0.44, 95% CI 0.36-0.53, p < 0.001). The year of first positive HIV test was not associated with late presentation. Efforts to reduce the patients who first seek HIV care at the late stage are needed. The identified risk factors associated with late presentation should be utilized in formulating targeted public health intervention to improve earlier entry into HIV care.

Impact of late presentation of HIV infection on short-, mid- and long-term mortality and causes of death in a multicenter national cohort: 2004-2013

OBJECTIVES

To analyze the impact of late presentation (LP) on overall mortality and causes of death and describe LP trends and risk factors (2004-2013).

METHODS

Cox models and logistic regression were used to analyze data from a nation-wide cohort in Spain. LP is defined as being diagnosed when CD4 < 350 cells/ml or AIDS.

RESULTS

Of 7165 new HIV diagnoses, 46.9% (CI95%:45.7-48.0) were LP, 240 patients died. First-year mortality was the highest (aHRLP.vs.nLP = 10.3[CI95%:5.5-19.3]); between 1 and 4 years post-diagnosis, aHRLP.vs.nLP = 1.9(1.2-3.0); and >4 years, aHRLP.vs.nLP = 1.5(0.7-3.1). First-year's main cause of death was HIV/AIDS (73%); and malignancies among those surviving >4 years (32%). HIV/AIDS-related deaths were more likely in LP (59.2% vs. 25.0%; p < 0.001). LP declined from 55.9% (2004-05) to 39.4% (2012-13), and reduced in 46.1% in men who have sex with men (MSM) and 37.6% in heterosexual men, but increased in 22.6% in heterosexual women. Factors associated with LP: sex (ORMEN.vs.WOMEN = 1.4[1.2-1.7]); age (OR31-40.vs.<30 = 1.6[1.4-1.8], OR41-50.vs.<30 = 2.2[1.8-2.6], OR>50.vs.<30 = 3.6[2.9-4.4]); behavior (ORInjectedDrugUse.vs.MSM = 2.8[2.0-3.8]; ORHeterosexual.vs.MSM = 2.2[1.7-3.0]); education (ORPrimaryEducation.vs.University = 1.5[1.1-2.0], ORLowerSecondary.vs.University = 1.3[1.1-1.5]); and geographical origin (ORSub-Saharan.vs.Spain = 1.6[1.3-2.0], ORLatin-American.vs.Spain = 1.4[1.2-1.8]).

CONCLUSIONS

LP is associated with higher mortality, especially short-term- and HIV/AIDS-related mortality. Mid-term-, but not long-term mortality, remained also higher in LP than nLP. LP decreased in MSM and heterosexual men, not in heterosexual women. The groups most affected by LP are low educated, non-Spanish and heterosexual women.

Repeated Cycles of Recombinant Human Interleukin 7 in HIV-Infected Patients With Low CD4 T-Cell Reconstitution on Antiretroviral Therapy: Results of 2 Phase II Multicenter Studies

BACKGROUND

Phase I/II studies in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients receiving antiretroviral therapy have shown that a single cycle of 3 weekly subcutaneous (s/c) injections of recombinant human interleukin 7 (r-hIL-7) is safe and improves immune CD4 T-cell restoration. Herein, we report data from 2 phase II trials evaluating the effect of repeated cycles of r-hIL-7 (20 µg/kg) with the objective of restoring a sustained CD4 T-cell count >500 cells/µL.

METHODS

INSPIRE 2 was a single-arm trial conducted in the United States and Canada. INSPIRE 3 was a 2 arm trial with 3:1 randomization to r-hIL-7 versus control conducted in Europe and South Africa. Participants with plasma HIV RNA levels <50 copies/mL during antiretroviral therapy and with CD4 T-cell counts between 101 and 400 cells/µL were eligible. A repeat cycle was administered when CD4 T-cell counts fell to <550 cells/µL.

RESULTS

A total of 107 patients were treated and received 1 (n = 107), 2 (n = 74), 3 (n = 14), or 4 (n = 1) r-hIL-7 cycles during a median follow-up of 23 months. r-hIL-7 was well tolerated. Four grade 4 events were observed, including 1 case of asymptomatic alanine aminotransferase elevation. After the second cycle, anti-r-hIL-7 binding antibodies developed in 82% and 77% of patients in INSPIRE 2 and 3, respectively (neutralizing antibodies in 38% and 37%), without impact on the CD4 T-cell response. Half of the patients spent >63% of their follow-up time with a CD4 T-cell count >500 cells/µL.

CONCLUSIONS

Repeated cycles of r-hIL-7 were well tolerated and achieved sustained CD4 T-cell restoration to >500 cells/µL in the majority of study participants.

CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION

INSPIRE II: clinicaltrials.gov (NCT01190111) and INSPIRE III: EudraCT (No. 2010-019773-15) and clinicaltrials.gov (NCT01241643).

Factors associated with presenting late or with advanced HIV disease in the Netherlands, 1996-2014: results from a national observational cohort

OBJECTIVES

Early testing for HIV and entry into care are crucial to optimise treatment outcomes of HIV-infected patients and to prevent spread of HIV. We examined risk factors for presentation with late or advanced disease in HIV-infected patients in the Netherlands.

METHODS

HIV-infected patients registered in care between January 1996 and June 2014 were selected from the ATHENA national observational HIV cohort. Risk factors for late presentation and advanced disease were analysed by multivariable logistic regression. Furthermore, geographical differences and time trends were examined.

RESULTS

Of 20,965 patients, 53% presented with late-stage HIV infection, and 35% had advanced disease. Late presentation decreased from 62% (1996) to 42% (2013), while advanced disease decreased from 46% to 26%. Late presentation only declined significantly among men having sex with men (MSM; p <0.001), but not among heterosexual males (p=0.08) and females (p=0.73). Factors associated with late presentation were: heterosexual male (adjusted OR (aOR), 1.59; 95% CI 1.44 to 1.75 vs MSM), injecting drug use (2.00; CI 1.69 to 2.38), age ≥ 50 years (1.46; CI 1.33 to 1.60 vs 30-49 years), region of origin (South-East Asia 2.14; 1.80 to 2.54, sub-Saharan Africa 2.11; 1.88 to 2.36, Surinam 1.59; 1.37 to 1.84, Caribbean 1.31; 1.13 to 1.53, Latin America 1.23; 1.04 to 1.46 vs the Netherlands), and location of HIV diagnosis (hospital 3.27; 2.94 to 3.63, general practitioner 1.66; 1.50 to 1.83, antenatal screening 1.76; 1.38 to 2.34 vs sexually transmitted infection clinic). No association was found for socioeconomic status or level of urbanisation. Compared with Amsterdam, 2 regions had higher adjusted odds and 2 regions had lower odds of late presentation. Results were highly similar for advanced disease.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the overall rate of late presentation is declining in the Netherlands, targeted programmes to reduce late HIV diagnoses remain needed for all risk groups, but should be prioritised for heterosexual males, migrant populations, people aged ≥ 50 years and certain regions in the Netherlands.

HIV-1 transmission between MSM and heterosexuals, and increasing proportions of circulating recombinant forms in the Nordic Countries

Increased knowledge about HIV-1 transmission dynamics in different transmission groups and geographical regions is fundamental for assessing and designing prevention efforts against HIV-1 spread. Since the first reported cases of HIV infection during the early 1980s, the HIV-1 epidemic in the Nordic countries has been dominated by HIV-1 subtype B and MSM transmission. HIV-1 pol sequences and clinical data of 51 per cent of all newly diagnosed HIV-1 infections in Sweden, Denmark, and Finland in the period 2000-2012 (N = 3,802) were analysed together with a large reference sequence dataset (N = 4,537) by trend analysis and phylogenetics. Analysis of the eight dominating subtypes and CRFs in the Nordic countries (A, B, C, D, G, CRF01_AE, CRF02_AG, and CRF06_cpx) showed that the subtype B proportion decreased while the CRF proportion increased over the study period. A majority (57 per cent) of the Nordic sequences formed transmission clusters, with evidence of mixing both geographically and between transmission groups. Detailed analyses showed multiple occasions of transmissions from MSM to heterosexuals and that active transmission clusters more often involved single than multiple Nordic countries. The strongest geographical link was between Denmark and Sweden. Finally, Denmark had a larger proportion of heterosexual domestic spread of HIV-1 subtype B (75 per cent) compared with Sweden (49 per cent) and Finland (57 per cent). We describe different HIV-1 transmission patterns between countries and transmission groups in a large geographical region. Our results may have implications for public health interventions in targeting HIV-1 transmission networks and identifying where to introduce such interventions.

Behavioral and clinical characteristics of people receiving medical care for HIV infection in an outpatient facility in Sicily, Italy

AIM

The authors examined a cohort of HIV-positive outpatients at the AIDS Center of Palermo University in Italy in order to identify factors related to the frequency of their visits to the outpatient facility for health care services.

METHODS

Two hundred and twenty-four HIV-infected subjects were enrolled in the study. Demographic and HIV disease characteristics were recorded and assessed with the number of days accessed to our outpatients unit in univariate and multivariate analyses. The potential relationship with immunological status was also analyzed stratifying the patients into groups according to their CD4(+) T-cell counts (≥500 vs <500/mm(3), and ≥200 vs <200/mm(3)).

RESULTS

Both univariate and multivariate analyses showed that duration of antiretroviral therapy <5 years and hypertension were significantly associated with a CD4(+) T-cell count of <500/mm(3), whereas geographic origin (Africa) was associated with a CD4(+) T-cell count of <200/mm(3). Mean number of days the patients sought access to day-care services for laboratory tests was negatively associated with CD4(+) T-cell count.

CONCLUSION

Patients with low CD4(+) T-cell counts showed higher use of health care services, demonstrating how early HIV diagnosis can help to reduce health care costs. The CD4(+) T-cell cut-off of 200 cells emphasizes the importance of identifying and managing HIV infection among hard-to-reach groups like vulnerable migrants. In our sample, the illegal status of immigrants does not influence the management of their HIV/AIDS condition, but the lack of European health card that documents the current antiretroviral status, could interfere with the efforts to eradicate AIDS. A better understanding of the major determinants of HIV treatment costs has led to appropriate large-scale actions, which in turn has increased resources and expanded intervention programs. Further guidance should be offered to hard-to-reach groups in order to improve early AIDS diagnosis, and procedures for identifying and managing these vulnerable subjects should be made available to care commissioners and service providers.

Major Challenges in Clinical Management of TB/HIV Coinfected Patients in Eastern Europe Compared with Western Europe and Latin America

OBJECTIVES

Rates of TB/HIV coinfection and multi-drug resistant (MDR)-TB are increasing in Eastern Europe (EE). We aimed to study clinical characteristics, factors associated with MDR-TB and predicted activity of empiric anti-TB treatment at time of TB diagnosis among TB/HIV coinfected patients in EE, Western Europe (WE) and Latin America (LA).

DESIGN AND METHODS

Between January 1, 2011, and December 31, 2013, 1413 TB/HIV patients (62 clinics in 19 countries in EE, WE, Southern Europe (SE), and LA) were enrolled.

RESULTS

Significant differences were observed between EE (N = 844), WE (N = 152), SE (N = 164), and LA (N = 253) in the proportion of patients with a definite TB diagnosis (47%, 71%, 72% and 40%, p<0.0001), MDR-TB (40%, 5%, 3% and 15%, p<0.0001), and use of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) (17%, 40%, 44% and 35%, p<0.0001). Injecting drug use (adjusted OR (aOR) = 2.03 (95% CI 1.00-4.09), prior anti-TB treatment (3.42 (1.88-6.22)), and living in EE (7.19 (3.28-15.78)) were associated with MDR-TB. Among 585 patients with drug susceptibility test (DST) results, the empiric (i.e. without knowledge of the DST results) anti-TB treatment included ≥3 active drugs in 66% of participants in EE compared with 90-96% in other regions (p<0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

In EE, TB/HIV patients were less likely to receive a definite TB diagnosis, more likely to house MDR-TB and commonly received empiric anti-TB treatment with reduced activity. Improved management of TB/HIV patients in EE requires better access to TB diagnostics including DSTs, empiric anti-TB therapy directed at both susceptible and MDR-TB, and more widespread use of cART.

HIV Infection in Migrant Populations in the European Union and European Economic Area in 2007-2012: An Epidemic on the Move

BACKGROUND

Migrants are considered a key group at risk for HIV infection. This study describes the epidemiology of HIV and the distribution of late HIV presentation among migrants within the European Union/European Economic Area during 2007-2012.

METHODS

HIV cases reported to European Surveillance System (TESSy) were analyzed. Migrants were defined as people whose geographical origin was different than the reporting country. Multiple logistic regression was used to model late HIV presentation.

RESULTS

Overall, 156,817 HIV cases were reported, of which 60,446 (38%) were migrants. Of these, 53% were from Sub-Saharan Africa, 12% from Latin America, 9% from Western Europe, 7% from Central Europe, 5% from South and Southeast Asia, 4% from East Europe, 4% from Caribbean, and 3% from North Africa and Middle East. Male and female migrants from Sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America had higher odds of late HIV presentation than native men and women. Migrants accounted for 40% of all HIV notifications in 2007 versus 35% in 2012. HIV cases in women from Sub-Saharan Africa decreased from 3725 in 2007 to 2354 in 2012. The number of HIV cases from Latin America peaked in 2010 to decrease thereafter. HIV diagnoses in migrant men who have sex with men increased from 1927 in 2007 to 2459 in 2012.

CONCLUSIONS

Migrants represent two-fifths of the HIV cases reported and had higher late HIV presentation. HIV epidemic in migrant populations in European Union/European Economic Area member states is changing, probably reflecting the global changes in the HIV pandemic, the impact of large-scale ART implementation, and migration fluctuations secondary to the economic crisis in Europe.

Restricted access to antiretroviral treatment for undocumented migrants: a bottle neck to control the HIV epidemic in the EU/EEA

Background

In the European Union/European Economic Area (EU/EEA), migrants from high-endemic countries are disproportionately affected by HIV. Between 2007 and 2012, migrants represented 39 % of reported HIV cases. There is growing evidence that a significant proportion of HIV acquisition among migrant populations occurs after their arrival in Europe.

Discussion

Migrants are confronted with multiple risk factors that shape patterns of population HIV susceptibility and vulnerability, which simultaneously affect HIV transmission. Undocumented migrants incur additional risks for contracting HIV due to limited access to adequate health care services, protection and justice, alongside insecure housing and employment conditions.

All EU/EEA countries have ratified a number of international and regional human rights instruments that enshrine access to health care as a human right that should be available to everyone without discrimination.

From a clinical and public health perspective, early HIV care and treatment is associated with viral suppression, improved health outcomes and reductions in transmission risks. A current challenge of the HIV epidemic is to reach the highest proportion of overall viral suppression among people living with HIV in order to impact on HIV transmission.

Although the majority of EU/EEA countries regard migrants as an important sub-population for their national responses to HIV, and despite the overwhelming evidence of the individual and public health benefits associated with HIV care and treatment, a significant number of EU/EEA countries do not provide antiretroviral treatment to undocumented migrants.

Summary

HIV transmission dynamics in migrant populations depend on the respective weight of all risk and vulnerability factors to which they are exposed, which act together in a synergistic way. People who are not linked to HIV care will continue to unwillingly contribute to the on-going transmission of HIV. Following the recommendations of the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights, ensuring access to HIV-care for all sub-populations, including undocumented migrants, would fulfil the human rights of those populations and also strengthen the control of HIV incidence among those not currently able to access HIV care.

Determinants of late presentation to HIV/AIDS care in Southern Tigray Zone, Northern Ethiopia: an institution based case-control study

BACKGROUND

Late diagnosis and presentation to human immune deficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immune deficiency syndrome care reduce the benefits of antiretroviral therapy and increase the risk of HIV transmission.

OBJECTIVES

This study was conducted to identify determinants of late presentation to HIV care among people living with HIV in Southern Tigray, Northern Ethiopia.

METHODS

An institution based un-matched case-control (1:2 ratios) supported with qualitative data was conducted in Southern Tigray Zone from March 1 to April 30, 2014. Individuals with HIV enrolled from six randomly selected health facilities were included in the study. Cases were people living with HIV who had cluster of differentiation four count <350 cells/μl or World Health Organization stages 3 or 4. A total of 442 study participants were included by systematic sampling techniques. Bivariable and multivariable binary logistic regression model was used to identify associated factors. Odds ratio with 95 % CI was computed to assess the strength of the associations.

RESULT

Age categories, 25-29 years [AOR 3, 95 % CI (1.2-8.1)] and 35-39 years [AOR 4.1, 95 % CI (1.4-12.5)], having two [AOR 6, 95 % CI (1.3-28)] and more [AOR 5.2, 95 % CI (1.1-24.8)] lifetime sexual partners, poor social support [AOR 2.3, 95 % CI (1.26-4.30)], second (next to lowest) wealth quintile [AOR 3.3, 95 % CI 91.3-8.5)], fear of stigma [AOR 4.4, 95 % CI (2.2-8.3)], fear of losing job [AOR 6.8, 95 % CI (1.8-24.5)], and reported severe illness [AOR 4.3, 95 % CI (2.26-8)] were identified to be the risk factors for late presentation.

CONCLUSION

Low socio-economic status and social support, fear of stigma were potential risk factors for late presentation. Efforts towards promoting early care seeking should target on these factors in the study area and other similar settings.

Advanced HIV Disease at Enrolment in HIV Care: Trends and Associated Factors over a Ten Year Period in Cambodia

Background

Early HIV diagnosis and enrolment in care is needed to achieve early antiretroviral treatment (ART) initiation. Studies on HIV disease stage at enrolment in care from Asian countries are limited. We evaluated trends in and factors associated with late HIV disease presentation over a ten-year period in the largest ART center in Cambodia.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of program data including all ARV-naïve adults (> 18 years old) enrolling into HIV care from March 2003-December 2013 in a non-governmental hospital in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. We calculated the proportion presenting with advanced stage HIV disease (WHO clinical stage IV or CD4 cell count <100 cells/μL) and the probability of ART initiation by six months after enrolment. Factors associated with late presentation were determined using multivariate logistic regression.

Results

From 2003–2013, a total of 5642 HIV-infected patients enrolled in HIV care. The proportion of late presenters decreased from 67% in 2003 to 44% in 2009 and 41% in 2013; a temporary increase to 52% occurred in 2011 coinciding with logistical/budgetary constraints at the national program level. Median CD4 counts increased from 32 cells/μL (IQR 11–127) in 2003 to 239 cells/μL (IQR 63–291) in 2013. Older age and male sex were associated with late presentation across the ten-year period. The probability of ART initiation by six months after enrolment increased from 22.6% in 2003–2006 to 79.9% in 2011–2013.

Conclusion

Although a gradual improvement was observed over time, a large proportion of patients still enroll late, particularly older or male patients. Interventions to achieve early HIV testing and efficient linkage to care are warranted.

Reasons for late presentation to HIV care in Switzerland

Introduction

Late presentation to HIV care leads to increased morbidity and mortality. We explored risk factors and reasons for late HIV testing and presentation to care in the nationally representative Swiss HIV Cohort Study (SHCS).

Methods

Adult patients enrolled in the SHCS between July 2009 and June 2012 were included. An initial CD4 count <350 cells/µl or an AIDS-defining illness defined late presentation. Demographic and behavioural characteristics of late presenters (LPs) were compared with those of non-late presenters (NLPs). Information on self-reported, individual barriers to HIV testing and care were obtained during face-to-face interviews.

Results

Of 1366 patients included, 680 (49.8%) were LPs. Seventy-two percent of eligible patients took part in the survey. LPs were more likely to be female (p<0.001) or from sub-Saharan Africa (p<0.001) and less likely to be highly educated (p=0.002) or men who have sex with men (p<0.001). LPs were more likely to have their first HIV test following a doctor's suggestion (p=0.01), and NLPs in the context of a regular check-up (p=0.02) or after a specific risk situation (p<0.001). The main reasons for late HIV testing were “did not feel at risk” (72%), “did not feel ill” (65%) and “did not know the symptoms of HIV” (51%). Seventy-one percent of the participants were symptomatic during the year preceding HIV diagnosis and the majority consulted a physician for these symptoms.

Conclusions

In Switzerland, late presentation to care is driven by late HIV testing due to low risk perception and lack of awareness about HIV. Tailored HIV testing strategies and enhanced provider-initiated testing are urgently needed.

Deficiencies in the health care system contribute to a high rate of late HIV diagnosis in Sweden

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to identify factors in HIV-infected patients and the health care system which contribute to late diagnosis.

METHODS

All patients who were newly diagnosed with HIV infection at 12 clinics in Sweden over a period of 2.5 years (n = 575) were included in the study, corresponding to three-quarters of newly diagnosed HIV infections in the country. The patients were classified as non-late presenters or late presenters (LPs), defined as those with a CD4 count < 350 cells/μL or AIDS. LPs were subdivided into those without and those with advanced HIV disease, which was defined as a CD4 count < 200 cells/μL or AIDS. Demographics, missed AIDS and HIV-associated symptoms in the preceding 3 years, immigration date, and health examination at immigration were recorded.

RESULTS

Fifty-eight per cent of the patients were LPs, of whom 66% had advanced disease. Age > 30 years, origin in sub-Saharan Africa or Eastern Europe/Asia/the Pacific region, and country of transmission being in sub-Saharan Africa or unknown were associated with late presentation. Half of the patients of non-Swedish origin had lived for more than 1 year in Sweden at diagnosis and 66% had a missed HIV testing opportunity at immigration. Twenty-seven per cent of all patients had presented for health care with AIDS- and/or HIV-associated conditions without having an HIV test. Sixteen per cent had a history of symptoms without seeking care.

CONCLUSIONS

Deficiencies in the health care system with missed HIV testing opportunities contribute to the high proportion of late presenters in Sweden, especially among migrants. With increased testing at immigration and further incorporation of "indicator-guided" testing in general practice, most patients could be diagnosed earlier.

Auditing HIV Testing Rates across Europe: Results from the HIDES 2 Study

European guidelines recommend the routine offer of an HIV test in patients with a number of AIDS-defining and non-AIDS conditions believed to share an association with HIV; so called indicator conditions (IC). Adherence with this guidance across Europe is not known. We audited HIV testing behaviour in patients accessing care for a number of ICs. Participating centres reviewed the case notes of either 100 patients or of all consecutive patients in one year, presenting for each of the following ICs: tuberculosis, non-Hodgkins lymphoma, anal and cervical cancer, hepatitis B and C and oesophageal candidiasis. Observed HIV-positive rates were applied by region and IC to estimate the number of HIV diagnoses potentially missed. Outcomes examined were: HIV test rate (% of total patients with IC), HIV test accepted (% of tests performed/% of tests offered) and new HIV diagnosis rate (%). There were 49 audits from 23 centres, representing 7037 patients. The median test rate across audits was 72% (IQR 32–97), lowest in Northern Europe (median 44%, IQR 22–68%) and highest in Eastern Europe (median 99%, IQR 86–100). Uptake of testing was close to 100% in all regions. The median HIV+ rate was 0.9% (IQR 0.0–4.9), with 29 audits (60.4%) having an HIV+ rate >0.1%. After adjustment, there were no differences between regions of Europe in the proportion with >0.1% testing positive (global p = 0.14). A total of 113 patients tested HIV+. Applying the observed rates of testing HIV+ within individual ICs and regions to all persons presenting with an IC suggested that 105 diagnoses were potentially missed. Testing rates in well-established HIV ICs remained low across Europe, despite high prevalence rates, reflecting missed opportunities for earlier HIV diagnosis and care. Significant numbers may have had an opportunity for HIV diagnosis if all persons included in IC audits had been tested.

Partner Notification for Reduction of HIV-1 Transmission and Related Costs among Men Who Have Sex with Men: A Mathematical Modeling Study

Background

Earlier antiretroviral treatment initiation prevents new HIV infections. A key problem in HIV prevention and care is the high number of patients diagnosed late, as these undiagnosed patients can continue forward HIV transmission. We modeled the impact on the Dutch men-who-have-sex-with-men (MSM) HIV epidemic and cost-effectiveness of an existing partner notification process for earlier identification of HIV-infected individuals to reduce HIV transmission.

Methods

Reduction in new infections and cost-effectiveness ratios were obtained for the use of partner notification to identify 5% of all new diagnoses (Scenario 1) and 20% of all new diagnoses (Scenario 2), versus no partner notification. Costs and quality adjusted life years (QALYs) were assigned to each disease state and calculated over 5 year increments for a 20 year period.

Results

Partner notification is predicted to avert 18–69 infections (interquartile range [IQR] 13–24; 51–93) over the course of 5 years countrywide to 221–830 (IQR 140–299; 530–1,127) over 20 years for Scenario 1 and 2 respectively. Partner notification was considered cost-effective in the short term, with increasing cost-effectiveness over time: from €41,476 -€41, 736 (IQR €40,529-€42,147; €40,791-€42,397) to €5,773 -€5,887 (€5,134-€7,196; €5,411-€6,552) per QALY gained over a 5 and 20 year period, respectively. The full monetary benefits of partner notification by preventing new HIV infections become more apparent over time.

Conclusions

Partner notification will not lead to the end of the HIV epidemic, but will prevent new infections and be increasingly cost-effectiveness over time.

Discordant responses to cART in HIV-1 patients in the era of high potency antiretroviral drugs: clinical evaluation, classification, management prospects

The goal of antiretroviral treatment (ART) in HIV-1 patients is immune reconstitution following control of viral replication. CD4+ cell number/proportions are a crude but essential correlate of immune reconstitution. Despite suppression of HIV replication, a fraction of ART-treated patients still fails to fully reconstitute CD4+ T cell numbers (immunological nonresponders, INRs). New drugs, regimens and treatment strategies led to increased efficacy, lower side effects and higher virological success rates in clinical practice. The multitude of described immune defects and clinical events accompanying INR opposed to the marginal effect of antiretroviral intensification or immunotherapy trials underline the need for continuing efforts at understanding the mechanisms that underlie INR. Here, we reassess INR definition, frequency, and the achievements of active clinical and translational research suggesting a shared definition for insufficient, partial and complete CD4+ cell number recovery thus improving homogeneity in patient selection and mechanism identification.

European AIDS Clinical Society Standard of Care meeting on HIV and related coinfections: The Rome Statements

OBJECTIVES

The objective of the 1st European AIDS Clinical Society meeting on Standard of Care in Europe was to raise awareness of the European scenario and come to an agreement on actions that could be taken in the future.

METHODS

Data-driven presentations were given on specific topics followed by interactive panel discussions.

RESULTS

In Eastern European countries, the epidemic is largely driven by injecting drug use, in contrast with Western Europe where the infection mainly occurs through heterosexual contact. A high proportion of people living with HIV remain unaware of their infection. Substantial differences exist in Eastern Europe and Central Asia with respect to treatment coverage, regimen availability and continuity of drug supply. In 2012, tuberculosis case notification rates were 5-10 times higher in Eastern Europe compared with Western Europe, with an alarming proportion of newly diagnosed multi-drug-resistant cases. Hepatitis C is widespread in selected geographical areas and risk groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The key conclusion from the meeting was that a high-priority group of actions could be identified, including: increasing HIV awareness and testing, improving training for health care providers, ensuring equitable patient access to treatments and diagnostics for HIV and comorbidities, and implementing best practices in infection control and treatment of HIV-infected patients coinfected with tuberculosis and hepatitis C virus, for whom direct acting antiviral treatment. should be considered.

Demographical, Viro-Immunological, Clinical and Therapeutical Characteristics of HIV-Infected Patients in an "Epidemiologically Unexplored" Region of Italy (Calabria Region): the CalabrHIV Cohort

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

HIV epidemics may differ among epidemiological contexts. We aimed at constructing an HIV clinical cohort whose main epidemiological, clinical and therapeutical characteristics are described (the CalabrHIV cohort, Calabria Region, Southern Italy).

METHODS

The CalabrHIV Cohort includes all HIV patients on active follow-up in all infectious disease centers in the Calabria Region as at October 2014. All information was recorded in a common electronic database. Not-infectious co-morbidities (such as cardiovascular diseases, bone fractures, diabetes, renal failure and hypertension) were also studied.

RESULTS

548 patients (68% males; 59% aged <50 years) were included in the CalabrHIV cohort. Major risk factors were: sexual transmission (49%) and intravenous drug use (34%). 39% patients had HCV and/or HBV co-infection. Amongst 404 patients who had a complete clinical history, 34% were AIDS presenters and 49.3% had CD4 count ≤350/mm(3) at HIV diagnosis. 83% patients on HAART had undetectable HIV-RNA. Hypertension was the most frequent co-morbidity (21.5%). Multimorbidity was more frequent in >50 years old patients than in <50 years old ones (30% vs. 6%; p<0.0001). Co-morbidity was more frequent in HCV and/or HBV co-infected than in HIV mono-infected patients (46.6% vs. 31.7%: p=0.0006).

CONCLUSION

This cohort presentation study sheds light, for the first time, on HIV patients' characteristics in the Calabria Region. We showed that HIV-infected patients with chronic hepatitis were affected by concomitant not-infectious co-morbidities more than the HIV mono-infected individuals. New HCV treatments are therefore to be implemented in the co-infected population.