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Chae J, Choi JY, Kim B, Kim DS. Antibiotic Use during Pregnancy in South Korea Using 2011-2020 National Health Insurance Claims Data. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:1242. [PMID: 37627662 PMCID: PMC10451209 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12081242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since antimicrobial overuse and misuse can have substantial impacts on both public health and fetal well-being, it is essential to gain comprehensive insights into antimicrobial consumption patterns in pregnant women. This study aims to demonstrate antimicrobial utilization in pregnant women. METHODS We conducted a population-based cohort study using National Health Insurance claims data from January 2009 to December 2020 in South Korea. The target population was pregnancies in women aged 15-45 years who gave birth between 2011 and 2019. The outcome measure was the percentage of antibiotic prescriptions by trimester, subgroup, diagnostic category, and therapeutic category. Antibiotics were defined as J01 in the WHO ATC/DDD classification. To analyze the factors that influenced antibiotic prescriptions, we conducted multivariate logistic regression analysis. RESULTS Antibiotics were prescribed at least once in 1,808,588 (50%) of the 3,614,478 pregnancies. The proportion of deliveries with exposure to antibiotic therapy during pregnancy increased from 48% in 2011 to 54.8% in 2020. The prescription rate of antibiotics was highest in mothers younger than 25 years old, and it was lowest in participants aged 30-34 years. Also, antibiotic use was highest in the first trimester (30%) and lowest in the second trimester (18.2%). The most commonly used class was J01D (other beta-lactam antibacterials), which includes cephalosporins, and it accounted for 57% of the prescribed antibiotics. An increased probability of being prescribed antibiotics was associated with those younger than 25 years old, insurance (Medical Aid), hospitalization experience, an increase in physician visits, and comorbidities. For comorbidities, the OR was higher for respiratory tract infection (RTI), sexually transmitted infection, and urinary tract infection compared to those without disease, whereas it was decreased for diabetes and epilepsy. CONCLUSION The prescribing rate of antibiotics to pregnant women in South Korea has remained stably high. Also, an increase in the use of broad-spectrum beta-lactam penicillin was noted. It is necessary to monitor antibiotics in pregnant women generally in accordance with recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jungmi Chae
- Department of Research, Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service, Wonju 26465, Republic of Korea;
| | - Jun Yong Choi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea;
| | - Bongyoung Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong-Sook Kim
- Department of Health Administration, College of Health, Kongju National University, Gongju 32588, Republic of Korea
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Gund G, Nayak C. Sexually transmitted infections in pregnant women and their partners: A clinico-epidemiological study at a tertiary care center, Mumbai, Maharashtra. Indian J Sex Transm Dis AIDS 2023; 44:116-120. [PMID: 38223159 PMCID: PMC10785102 DOI: 10.4103/ijstd.ijstd_25_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) during pregnancy are associated with adverse fetal outcome. They should be aggressively sought and treated. We did an analytical study with the primary aim to know the occurrence of STIs in pregnant women and their spouses. Materials and Methods An observational cross-sectional analytical study of pregnant women with STIs and their spouses was conducted at a tertiary care hospital. Demographic parameters and medical history were recorded. Clinical examination and necessary investigations were done in pregnant females and their spouses. History about sexual behavior and knowledge of STIs were obtained from the questionnaire. Results The prevalence of STIs in pregnant women was 2.1% (n = 61) out of 2894 pregnant women who attended our institute during the study period with the highest prevalence of HIV (1.1%), and out of 54 examined spouses, 32 spouses were suffering from STIs. Overall, women had poor awareness, knowledge of STIs, and preventive measures compared to men. A significant association was seen between level of education and awareness about HIV/AIDS and other STIs, both in pregnant women and their spouses. Conclusion Our study showed an overall low prevalence of STIs among pregnant women but showed higher HIV and syphilis prevalence as compared to national prevalence. The serodiscordancy rate was found to be high in HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gayatri Gund
- Departments of Dermatology Venereology and Leprosy, Topiwala National Medical College and BYL Nair Charitable Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Chitra Nayak
- Departments of Dermatology Venereology and Leprosy, Topiwala National Medical College and BYL Nair Charitable Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
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Cifuentes Cifuentes MY, Gómez Aristizábal LS, Pinilla Bermúdez G, Cruz C, Navarrete J. Congenital syphilis confirmed by PCR as a result of treatment failure for syphilis in pregnancy. Case report. CASE REPORTS 2022. [DOI: 10.15446/cr.v8n1.91044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Congenital syphilis is a major public health problem, and early diagnosis and treatment are necessary to prevent it. Penicillin G benzathine is the treatment of choice in pregnant women; however, it may fail to prevent fetal infection, as in the present case.
Case presentation: Male newborn, son of an HIV negative mother with gestational syphilis (venereal disease research laboratory (VDRL) 1:4 dilution, positive treponemal test) diagnosed at week 21 of gestation and treated with three doses of 2 400 000 IU of penicillin G benzathine. At delivery, the mother presented VDRL 1:1 dilution. The newborn was diagnosed with congenital syphilis due to VDRL 1:4 dilution, positive treponemal test, elevated aspartate aminotransferases, hyposthenuria, proteinuria, hematuria, and leukocyturia that resolved after treatment with crystalline penicillin for 10 days. The molecular testing in blood showed a high treponemal load. The VDRL test at 3 months was non-reactive.
Conclusions: Preventing congenital syphilis with the recommended treatment for gestational syphilis may fail. Moreover, diagnosing this condition in an asymptomatic newborn is difficult. Therefore, clinical and serological tests are recommended to confirm whether maternal treatment was effective in the fetus.
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Aleem S, Bhutta ZA. Infection-related stillbirth: an update on current knowledge and strategies for prevention. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2021; 19:1117-1124. [PMID: 33517816 DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2021.1882849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Infections during pregnancy are a preventable public health concern globally, with the highest burden occurring in low- and middle-income countries. Despite clear interventions to reduce these infections, their impact on preventing stillbirths is unclear, with conflicting evidence.Areas covered: The purpose of this review is to discuss data regarding infectious causes of stillbirths, and interventions for the prevention and/or treatment of these infections. We discuss the limitations in evaluating the true effect of the interventions on stillbirths, and highlight the importance of preventing infections in the grand scheme of improving maternal and infant pregnancy outcomes. We used PubMed to identify relevant studies, reviews, and meta-analysis until January 2021.Expert opinion: Maternal infections during pregnancy, especially malaria and syphilis, are notable causes of stillbirth in low- and middle-income countries. Despite considerable global advocacy, there is scant recognition of the potential to reduce the burden of antepartum stillbirths related to infections. Reducing stillbirths overall must become an important indicator for quality of care and accountability, and progress must also be assessed by coverage of key interventions that impact stillbirths, which includes population-based screening, prevention and timely treatment of infections during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samia Aleem
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States
| | - Zulfiqar A Bhutta
- Centre for Global Child Health, Hospital for Sick Children, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research, and Learning, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Centre of Excellence in Women, and Child Health, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan.,Epidemiology Division, Dalla Lana School of Public Health University of Toronto, Health Sciences Building, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Ota E, da Silva Lopes K, Middleton P, Flenady V, Wariki WM, Rahman MO, Tobe-Gai R, Mori R. Antenatal interventions for preventing stillbirth, fetal loss and perinatal death: an overview of Cochrane systematic reviews. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2020; 12:CD009599. [PMID: 33336827 PMCID: PMC8078228 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd009599.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stillbirth is generally defined as a death prior to birth at or after 22 weeks' gestation. It remains a major public health concern globally. Antenatal interventions may reduce stillbirths and improve maternal and neonatal outcomes in settings with high rates of stillbirth. There are several key antenatal strategies that aim to prevent stillbirth including nutrition, and prevention and management of infections. OBJECTIVES To summarise the evidence from Cochrane systematic reviews on the effects of antenatal interventions for preventing stillbirth for low risk or unselected populations of women. METHODS We collaborated with Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth's Information Specialist to identify all their published reviews that specified or reported stillbirth; and we searched the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (search date: 29 Feburary 2020) to identify reviews published within other Cochrane groups. The primary outcome measure was stillbirth but in the absence of stillbirth data, we used perinatal mortality (both stillbirth and death in the first week of life), fetal loss or fetal death as outcomes. Two review authors independently evaluated reviews for inclusion, extracted data and assessed quality of evidence using AMSTAR (A Measurement Tool to Assess Reviews) and GRADE tools. We assigned interventions to categories with graphic icons to classify the effectiveness of interventions as: clear evidence of benefit or harm; clear evidence of no effect or equivalence; possible benefit or harm; or unknown benefit or harm or no effect or equivalence. MAIN RESULTS We identified 43 Cochrane Reviews that included interventions in pregnant women with the potential for preventing stillbirth; all of the included reviews reported our primary outcome 'stillbirth' or in the absence of stillbirth, 'perinatal death' or 'fetal loss/fetal death'. AMSTAR quality was high in 40 reviews with scores ranging from 8 to 11 and moderate in three reviews with a score of 7. Nutrition interventions Clear evidence of benefit: balanced energy/protein supplementation versus no supplementation suggests a probable reduction in stillbirth (risk ratio (RR) 0.60, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.39 to 0.94, 5 randomised controlled trials (RCTs), 3408 women; moderate-certainty evidence). Clear evidence of no effect or equivalence for stillbirth or perinatal death: vitamin A alone versus placebo or no treatment; and multiple micronutrients with iron and folic acid versus iron with or without folic acid. Unknown benefit or harm or no effect or equivalence: for all other nutrition interventions examined the effects were uncertain. Prevention and management of infections Possible benefit for fetal loss or death: insecticide-treated anti-malarial nets versus no nets (RR 0.67, 95% CI 0.47 to 0.97, 4 RCTs; low-certainty). Unknown evidence of no effect or equivalence: drugs for preventing malaria (stillbirth RR 1.02, 95% CI 0.76 to 1.36, 5 RCTs, 7130 women, moderate certainty in women of all parity; perinatal death RR 1.24, 95% CI 0.94 to 1.63, 4 RCTs, 5216 women, moderate-certainty in women of all parity). Prevention, detection and management of other morbidities Clear evidence of benefit: the following interventions suggest a reduction: midwife-led models of care in settings where the midwife is the primary healthcare provider particularly for low-risk pregnant women (overall fetal loss/neonatal death reduction RR 0.84, 95% CI 0.71 to 0.99, 13 RCTs, 17,561 women; high-certainty), training versus not training traditional birth attendants in rural populations of low- and middle-income countries (stillbirth reduction odds ratio (OR) 0.69, 95% CI 0.57 to 0.83, 1 RCT, 18,699 women, moderate-certainty; perinatal death reduction OR 0.70, 95% CI 0.59 to 0.83, 1 RCT, 18,699 women, moderate-certainty). Clear evidence of harm: a reduced number of antenatal care visits probably results in an increase in perinatal death (RR 1.14 95% CI 1.00 to 1.31, 5 RCTs, 56,431 women; moderate-certainty evidence). Clear evidence of no effect or equivalence: there was evidence of no effect in the risk of stillbirth/fetal loss or perinatal death for the following interventions and comparisons: psychosocial interventions; and providing case notes to women. Possible benefit: community-based intervention packages (including community support groups/women's groups, community mobilisation and home visitation, or training traditional birth attendants who made home visits) may result in a reduction of stillbirth (RR 0.81, 95% CI 0.73 to 0.91, 15 RCTs, 201,181 women; low-certainty) and perinatal death (RR 0.78, 95% CI 0.70 to 0.86, 17 RCTs, 282,327 women; low-certainty). Unknown benefit or harm or no effect or equivalence: the effects were uncertain for other interventions examined. Screening and management of fetal growth and well-being Clear evidence of benefit: computerised antenatal cardiotocography for assessing infant's well-being in utero compared with traditional antenatal cardiotocography (perinatal mortality reduction RR 0.20, 95% CI 0.04 to 0.88, 2 RCTs, 469 women; moderate-certainty). Unknown benefit or harm or no effect or equivalence: the effects were uncertain for other interventions examined. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS While most interventions were unable to demonstrate a clear effect in reducing stillbirth or perinatal death, several interventions suggested a clear benefit, such as balanced energy/protein supplements, midwife-led models of care, training versus not training traditional birth attendants, and antenatal cardiotocography. Possible benefits were also observed for insecticide-treated anti-malarial nets and community-based intervention packages, whereas a reduced number of antenatal care visits were shown to be harmful. However, there was variation in the effectiveness of interventions across different settings, indicating the need to carefully understand the context in which these interventions were tested. Further high-quality RCTs are needed to evaluate the effects of antenatal preventive interventions and which approaches are most effective to reduce the risk of stillbirth. Stillbirth (or fetal death), perinatal and neonatal death need to be reported separately in future RCTs of antenatal interventions to allow assessment of different interventions on these rare but important outcomes and they need to clearly define the target populations of women where the intervention is most likely to be of benefit. As the high burden of stillbirths occurs in low- and middle-income countries, further high-quality trials need to be conducted in these settings as a priority.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Ota
- Global Health Nursing, Graduate School of Nursing Science, St. Luke's International University , Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Philippa Middleton
- Healthy Mothers, Babies and Children, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Vicki Flenady
- NHMRC Centre of Research Excellence in Stillbirth, Mater Research Institute - The University of Queensland (MRI-UQ), Brisbane, Australia
| | - Windy Mv Wariki
- Faculty of Medicine, Sam Ratulangi University, Manado, Indonesia
| | - Md Obaidur Rahman
- Global Health Nursing, Graduate School of Nursing Science, St. Luke's International University, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Rintaro Mori
- Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
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Trinh T, Leal AF, Mello MB, Taylor MM, Barrow R, Wi TE, Kamb ML. Syphilis management in pregnancy: a review of guideline recommendations from countries around the world. Sex Reprod Health Matters 2020; 27:69-82. [PMID: 31884900 PMCID: PMC7888020 DOI: 10.1080/26410397.2019.1691897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Guidelines can help healthcare practitioners manage syphilis in pregnancy and prevent perinatal death or disability. We conducted systematic reviews to locate guidance documents describing management of syphilis in pregnancy, 2003–2017. We compared country and regional guidelines with current World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. We found 64 guidelines with recommendations on management of syphilis in pregnancy representing 128 of the 195 WHO member countries, including the two WHO guidelines published in 2016 and 2017. Of the 62 guidelines, 16 were for countries in Africa, 21 for the Americas, two for Eastern Mediterranean, six for Europe and 17 for Asia or the Pacific. Fifty-seven (92%) guidelines recommended universal syphilis screening in pregnancy, of which 46 (81%) recommended testing at the first antenatal care visit. Also, 46 (81%) recommended repeat testing including 21 guidelines recommended this during the third pregnancy trimester and/or at delivery. Fifty-nine (95%) guidelines recommended benzathine penicillin G (BPG) as the first-line therapy for syphilis in pregnancy, consistent with WHO guidelines. Alternative regimens to BPG were listed in 42 (68%) guidelines, primarily from Africa and Asia; only 20 specified that non-penicillin regimens are not proven-effective in treating the fetus. We identified guidance recommending use of injectable penicillin in exposed infants for 112 countries. Most guidelines recommended universal syphilis testing for pregnant women, repeat testing for high-risk women and treatment of infected women with BPG; but several did not. Updating guidance on syphilis testing and treatment in pregnancy to reflect global norms could prevent congenital syphilis and save newborn lives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thuy Trinh
- Public Health Analyst, Division of Sexually Transmitted Disease Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Alexis F Leal
- Project Associate, Department of Communicable Diseases and Environmental Determinants of Health, Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Maeve B Mello
- Medical Epidemiologist, Regional Adviser for HIV/STI Prevention, Department of Communicable Diseases and Environmental Determinants of Health, Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Melanie M Taylor
- Medical Epidemiologist, Division of Sexually Transmitted Disease Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA; Medical Officer, Department of Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Roxanne Barrow
- Medical Epidemiologist, Division of Sexually Transmitted Disease Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Teodora E Wi
- Medical Officer, Department of Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Mary L Kamb
- Medical Epidemiologist, Division for Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Center for Global Health, Atlanta, GA, USA
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7
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Rac H, Gould AP, Eiland LS, Griffin B, McLaughlin M, Stover KR, Bland CM, Bookstaver PB. Common Bacterial and Viral Infections: Review of Management in the Pregnant Patient. Ann Pharmacother 2018; 53:639-651. [PMID: 30556401 DOI: 10.1177/1060028018817935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review the treatment of common bacterial and viral infections occurring in the pregnant patient. DATA SOURCES A literature search of MEDLINE was performed (inception to October 2018). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website was utilized for additional information. STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION Relevant English-language studies and those conducted in humans were considered. DATA SYNTHESIS β-Lactams alone or in combination are the preferred treatment for many common infections in pregnancy, such as urinary tract infections, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), gonococcal infections, syphilis, chancroid, upper- and lower-respiratory-tract infections, certain gastrointestinal infections, Group B Streptococcus, listeriosis, and intrauterine inflammation or infection. Macrolides, particularly azithromycin, are also utilized for the treatment of PID, chlamydia, gonococcal infections, chancroid, community-acquired pneumonia, and certain gastrointestinal infections. Other antibiotics or antivirals such as vancomycin, aminoglycosides, metronidazole, nitrofurantoin, fosfomycin, acyclovir, valacyclovir, and oseltamivir are included in the preferred therapy for some common bacterial and viral infections in pregnant patients as well. Relevance to Patient Care and Clinical Practice: This review synthesizes available evidence of treatments of common infections in pregnancy and provides a concise summary to guide clinicians on empirical treatment during pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS There are limited data on clinical outcomes in pregnant patients with common bacterial and viral infections. Empirical management decisions require balance of benefit and risk to both mother and infant. Although few clinical practice guidelines have quality evidence for strong recommendations in this population, clinicians should weigh antimicrobial dosing, pharmacokinetics, safety, and established effectiveness to optimize antimicrobial therapy in pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hana Rac
- 1 University of South Carolina College of Pharmacy, Columbia, SC, USA
| | | | - Lea S Eiland
- 3 Auburn University Harrison School of Pharmacy, Meridian, MS, USA
| | - Brooke Griffin
- 4 Midwestern University Chicago College of Pharmacy, Downers Grove, IL, USA
| | - Milena McLaughlin
- 4 Midwestern University Chicago College of Pharmacy, Downers Grove, IL, USA
| | - Kayla R Stover
- 5 University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy, Jackson, MS, USA
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Tang S. Updates on Sexually Transmitted Infections: Gonorrhea, Chlamydia, and Syphilis Testing and Treatment in the Emergency Department. CURRENT EMERGENCY AND HOSPITAL MEDICINE REPORTS 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s40138-018-0160-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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Lago EG. Current Perspectives on Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission of Syphilis. Cureus 2016; 8:e525. [PMID: 27081586 PMCID: PMC4829408 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2015] [Accepted: 03/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
This article aims to provide an update on the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of syphilis by drawing upon some important basic concepts and reviewing the most recent literature on the diagnosis and treatment of syphilis in pregnancy. New technologies, such as automated and point-of-care immunologic tests, are shifting some paradigms, which will certainly be further investigated in the forthcoming years. This is the time to carefully evaluate traditional as well as new strategies to prevent congenital syphilis. Adverse outcomes of mother-to-child transmission of syphilis can be prevented with antenatal screening and penicillin therapy, which proved to have an excellent cost-benefit ratio even in populations with a low prevalence of syphilis. However, syphilis epidemiology is influenced by socioeconomic and cultural factors, and major challenges are faced by poor and developing countries in which the severity of the problem is extremely alarming. On the other hand, the emergence of new technologies has raised doubts about the best algorithm to be used when proper laboratory resources are available. Conditions are quite heterogeneous across populations, and some procedures should not be generalized while there is no evidence that supports some changes and while in-depth studies about local conditions are not conducted. Official organizations need to be alert in order to avoid isolated decisions and ensure that evidence-based guidelines be used in the management of syphilis in pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonor G Lago
- School of Medicine, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul - PUCRS ; Edipucrs University Publisher, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul - PUCRS
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10
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Workowski KA, Bolan GA. Sexually transmitted diseases treatment guidelines, 2015. MMWR Recomm Rep 2015; 64:1-137. [PMID: 26042815 PMCID: PMC5885289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2023] Open
Abstract
These guidelines for the treatment of persons who have or are at risk for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) were updated by CDC after consultation with a group of professionals knowledgeable in the field of STDs who met in Atlanta on April 30-May 2, 2013. The information in this report updates the Sexually Transmitted Diseases Treatment Guidelines, 2010 (MMWR Recomm Rep 2010;59 [No. RR-12]). These updated guidelines discuss 1) alternative treatment regimens for Neisseria gonorrhoeae; 2) the use of nucleic acid amplification tests for the diagnosis of trichomoniasis; 3) alternative treatment options for genital warts; 4) the role of Mycoplasma genitalium in urethritis/cervicitis and treatment-related implications; 5) updated HPV vaccine recommendations and counseling messages; 6) the management of persons who are transgender; 7) annual testing for hepatitis C in persons with HIV infection; 8) updated recommendations for diagnostic evaluation of urethritis; and 9) retesting to detect repeat infection. Physicians and other health-care providers can use these guidelines to assist in the prevention and treatment of STDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly A. Workowski
- Division of STD Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention
- Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Gail A. Bolan
- Division of STD Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention
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Krasnoselskikh TV, Sokolovskiy EV. Current standards for syphilis treatment: comparing the russian and foreign guidelines (part II). VESTNIK DERMATOLOGII I VENEROLOGII 2015. [DOI: 10.25208/0042-4609-2015-91-2-23-40] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The introduction of penicillin has been a breakthrough in the treatment of syphilis. For 70 years, penicillin remains the preferred drug for the treatment of all forms of the disease; its effectiveness has been proven by wide experience gained from clinical observations. However, a very limited number of published meta-analyzes, systematic reviews and data from randomized controlled trials on the comparative assessment of the effectiveness of various antibiotics and treatment regimens are currently available. Some aspects of syphilis treatment are insufficiently developed, particularly, the treatment schedules for neurosyphilis, syphilis in pregnancy, syphilis in HIV-infected individuals and persons allergic to penicillin. There are disagreements in the assessment of the clinical significance of serofast state after a course of antibiotic therapy. There is no uniform approach to the management of patients with treatment failures. This article compares the Russian standards for syphilis treatment set out in the «Federal guidelines for the management of patients with syphilis» with the current European recommendations of the International Union against Sexually Transmitted Infections (IUSTI) and the recommendations of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The peculiarities of these guidelines, their strengths and shortcomings, as well as controversial issues of syphilis therapy are discussed. The differences between the domestic and foreign recommendations are more significant in the section concerning the treatment of syphilis than in the section of diagnosis.
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12
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Sangkomkamhang US, Lumbiganon P, Prasertcharoensuk W, Laopaiboon M. Antenatal lower genital tract infection screening and treatment programs for preventing preterm delivery. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2015; 2015:CD006178. [PMID: 25922860 PMCID: PMC8498019 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd006178.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Genital tract infection is associated with preterm birth (before 37 weeks' gestation). Screening for infections during pregnancy may therefore reduce the numbers of babies being born prematurely. However, screening for infections may have some adverse effects, such as increased antibiotic drug resistance and increased cost of treatment. OBJECTIVES To assess the effectiveness of antenatal lower genital tract infection screening and treatment programs for reducing preterm birth and subsequent morbidity. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group's Trials Register (30 November 2014), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (The Cochrane Library 2014, Issue 7) and reference lists of retrieved reports. SELECTION CRITERIA We included all published and unpublished randomised controlled trials in any language that evaluated any described methods of antenatal lower genital tract infection screening compared with no screening. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently assessed trials for inclusion and risk of bias, extracted data and checked for accuracy. MAIN RESULTS One study (4155 women at less than 20 weeks' gestation) met the inclusion criteria. The intervention group (2058 women) received infection screening and treatment for bacterial vaginosis, trichomonas vaginalis and candidiasis; the control group (2097 women) also received screening, but the results of the screening program were not revealed and women received routine antenatal care. The rate of preterm birth before 37 weeks' gestation was significantly lower in the intervention group (3% versus 5% in the control group) with a risk ratio (RR) of 0.55 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.41 to 0.75; the evidence for this outcome was graded as of moderate quality). The incidence of preterm birth for infants with a weight equal to or below 2500 g (low birthweight) and infants with a weight equal to or below 1500 g (very low birthweight) were significantly lower in the intervention group than in the control group (RR 0.48, 95% CI 0.34 to 0.66 and RR 0.34; 95% CI 0.15 to 0.75, respectively; both graded as moderate quality evidence). Based on a subset of costs for preterm births of < 1900 g, the authors reported that for each of those preterm births averted, EUR 60,262 would be saved. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS There is evidence from one trial that infection screening and treatment programs for pregnant women before 20 weeks' gestation reduce preterm birth and preterm low birthweight. Infection screening and treatment programs are associated with cost savings when used for the prevention of preterm birth. Future trials should evaluate the effects of different types of infection screening programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ussanee S Sangkomkamhang
- Khon Kaen HospitalDepartment of Obstetrics and GynaecologySrichan RoadMaungKhon KaenThailand40000
| | - Pisake Lumbiganon
- Khon Kaen UniversityDepartment of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine123 Mitraparb RoadAmphur MuangKhon KaenThailand40002
| | - Witoon Prasertcharoensuk
- Khon Kaen UniversityDepartment of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine123 Mitraparb RoadAmphur MuangKhon KaenThailand40002
| | - Malinee Laopaiboon
- Khon Kaen UniversityDepartment of Biostatistics and Demography, Faculty of Public Health123 Mitraparb RoadAmphur MuangKhon KaenThailand40002
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Abstract
IMPORTANCE The incidence of syphilis in the United States is increasing; it is estimated that more than 55,000 new infections will occur in 2014. Treatment regimens are controversial, especially in specific populations, and assessing treatment response based on serology remains a challenge. OBJECTIVE To review evidence regarding penicillin and nonpenicillin regimens, implications of the "serofast state," and treatment of specific populations including those with neurosyphilis or human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and pregnant women. EVIDENCE REVIEW We searched MEDLINE for English-language human treatment studies dating from January 1965 until July 2014. The American Heart Association classification system was used to rate quality of evidence. FINDINGS We included 102 articles in our review, consisting of randomized trials, meta-analyses, and cohort studies. Case reports and small series were excluded unless they were the only studies providing evidence for a specific treatment strategy. We included 11 randomized trials. Evidence regarding penicillin and nonpenicillin regimens was reviewed from studies involving 11,102 patients. Data on the treatment of early syphilis support the use of a single intramuscular injection of 2.4 million U of benzathine penicillin G, with studies reporting 90% to 100% treatment success rates. The value of multiple-dose treatment of early syphilis is uncertain, especially in HIV-infected individuals. Less evidence is available regarding therapy for late and late latent syphilis. Following treatment, nontreponemal serologic titers should decline in a stable pattern, but a significant proportion of patients may remain seropositive (the "serofast state"). Serologic response to treatment should be evident by 6 months in early syphilis but is generally slower (12-24 months) for latent syphilis. Evidence defining treatment for HIV-infected persons and for pregnant women is limited, but available data support penicillin as first-line therapy. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE The mainstay of syphilis treatment is parenteral penicillin G despite the relatively modest clinical trial data that support its use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meredith E Clement
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - N Lance Okeke
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Charles B Hicks
- Divisions of General Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, University of California, San Diego
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Each year about two million pregnant women are infected with preventable syphilis infection, mostly in developing countries. Despite the expansion of antenatal syphilis screening programmes over the past few decades, syphilis continues to be a major public health concern in developing countries. Point-of-care syphilis testing may be a useful strategy to substantially prevent syphilis-associated perinatal mortality and other negative consequences in resource-poor settings. However, the evidence on effectiveness has been generated mostly from observational study designs or has been reported as a mixed-intervention effect. OBJECTIVES To assess the effectiveness of antenatal syphilis screening in improving the uptake of screening tests and treatment, and reducing perinatal mortality. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group's Trials Register (30 September 2014) and the reference lists of retrieved studies. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised (individual and cluster) controlled trials comparing different screening tests conducted during routine antenatal check-ups versus no screening test. Cross-over trials and quasi-randomised experimental study designs were not eligible for inclusion. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently assessed trials for inclusion and risk of bias, extracted data and checked for accuracy. MAIN RESULTS We included two cluster-randomised controlled trials (three reports). Both trials assessed point-of-care syphilis testing with conventional testing methods and together involved a total of 8493 pregnant women. Data from these trials were not amenable to meta-analysis as the measure of effectiveness was assessed in a non-comparable way.One trial randomised 14 antenatal clinics (including 7700 pregnant women) and was carried out at in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. The trial assessed one-stop syphilis testing using a rapid treponemal test, and was judged to have unclear methods of random sequence generation, allocation concealment, selective reporting, and other bias and low risk of bias for incomplete outcome data. Blinding was not reported and was assessed as high risk. The point-of-care testing provided screening, test results and treatment within the same day. The trial appears to have adjusted their results to account for clustering. We entered the data into RevMan using the generic inverse variance method. The incidence of congenital syphilis was lower in the clusters receiving on-site screening (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 0.09, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.01 to 0.71) and the proportion of women tested for syphilis was higher in the clusters receiving on-site screening at both the first antenatal visit and at the third trimester visit (OR 989.80, 95% CI 16.27 to 60233.05; OR 617.88, 95% CI 13.44 to 28399.01). Adequate treatment and partner treatment was higher with the on-site screening (AOR 10.44, 95% CI 1.00 to 108.99; AOR 18.17, 95% CI 3.23 to 101.20) and more syphilis cases were detected at first and third trimester visits with the on-site screening (AOR 2.45, 95% CI 1.44 to 4.18; AOR 6.27, 95% CI 1.47 to 26.69). Perinatal mortality, incidence of HIV/AIDS, obstacles in uptake of screening, any other adverse effects, or healthcare resource usage were not reported in this trial.The second trial divided clinics into seven matched pairs (including 7618 pregnant women, although results were only presented for the positive cases (793 women)), and within each pair one clinic was randomised to receive the on-site screening and the other to continue routine laboratory testing. The trial was conducted in primary healthcare clinics in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Random sequence generation were judged to be at low risk of bias, but allocation concealment and incomplete outcome data were judged to be high risk. Other bias and selective reporting bias remain unclear. Blinding was not reported and was assessed as high risk of bias. This trial assessed the primary outcome of this review (perinatal mortality) and the secondary outcomes (adverse outcomes; adequate treatment; syphilis prevalence) in the subset of women (793 women) who tested positive for syphilis. Only one outcome, adequate treatment, was adjusted to account for cluster design. However, not enough information was provided to include this in an analysis using the generic inverse variance method. Where possible, results have therefore been presented in forest plots (perinatal mortality; adequate treatment), as if the data are from a parallel randomised controlled trial. These results should therefore be interpreted with caution.The trial reported on perinatal mortality in women with positive test results and showed that on-site screening using a rapid plasma reagin test had no clear evidence of an effect on perinatal mortality reduction (odds ratio (OR) 0.63; 95% CI 0.27 to 1.48; 18/549 (3.3%) versus 8/157 (5.1%)). After loss to follow up, 396/618 (64.1%) women with positive test results received adequate treatment (two or more doses of 2.4 mega units of benzathine penicillin) in the intervention cluster versus 120/175 (68.6%) in the control (OR 0.82; 95% CI 0.57 to 1.17). It was not possible to include any other data on reported outcomes in forest plots (adverse outcomes; syphilis prevalence). Incidence of congenital syphilis, proportion of women test for syphilis, incidence of HIV/AIDS, obstacles in uptake of screening, partner treatment, or healthcare resource usage were not reported in this trial. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS This review included evidence from two cluster-randomised trials at high or unclear risk of bias for most of the 'Risk of bias' domains. Data were not combined in meta-analysis because the trials used non-comparable measures of effectiveness.Point-of-care syphilis testing showed some promising results for syphilis detection and treatment rates and for use in different settings. In Mongolia point-of-care testing was found to be effective in increasing the proportion of pregnant women tested for syphilis and treatment provided, reducing congenital syphilis, and improving access to treatment for both women and their partners. In contrast, in rural South Africa, among women with positive test results, there was no clear evidence of an effect of point-of-care syphilis testing in increasing adequate syphilis treatment rates, and reducing perinatal mortality, but point-of-care testing was found to reduce delay in seeking treatment.More trials are therefore warranted to determine the effectiveness of available testing strategies for improving syphilis-associated adverse outcomes in pregnant women and neonates, especially in high-risk regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadequa Shahrook
- National Center for Child Health and DevelopmentDepartment of Health Policy2‐10‐1 Okura, Setagaya‐kuTokyoTokyoJapan157 8535
| | - Rintaro Mori
- National Center for Child Health and DevelopmentDepartment of Health Policy2‐10‐1 Okura, Setagaya‐kuTokyoTokyoJapan157 8535
| | - Tumendemberel Ochirbat
- Graduate School of Medicine, University of TokyoGlobal Health Policy7‐3‐1 HongoBunkyo‐kuTokyoJapan113‐0033
| | - Harumi Gomi
- University of TsukubaCenter for Global Health, Mito Kyodo General Hospital3‐2‐7, MiyamachiMitoIbarakiJapan310‐0015
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Janier M, Hegyi V, Dupin N, Unemo M, Tiplica G, Potočnik M, French P, Patel R. 2014 European guideline on the management of syphilis. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2014; 28:1581-93. [PMID: 25348878 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.12734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 254] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2014] [Accepted: 08/04/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M. Janier
- STD Clinic; Hôpital Saint-Louis AP-HP and Hôpital Saint-Joseph; Paris France
| | - V. Hegyi
- Department of Pediatric Dermatovenereology; Comenius University; Bratislava Slovak Republic
| | - N. Dupin
- Syphilis National Reference Center; Hôpital Tarnier-Cochin; AP-HP; Paris France
| | - M. Unemo
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Gonorrhoea and other Sexually Transmitted Infections; Department of Laboratory Medicine; Microbiology; Örebro University Hospital; Örebro Sweden
| | - G.S. Tiplica
- 2nd Dermatological Clinic; Carol Davila University; Colentina Clinical Hospital; Bucharest Romania
| | - M. Potočnik
- Department of Dermatovenereology; University Medical Centre; Ljubljana Slovenia
| | - P. French
- Central and North West London NHS Trust and University College; London UK
| | - R. Patel
- Department of Genitourinary Medicine; the Royal South Hants Hospital; Southampton UK
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Lassi ZS, Mansoor T, Salam RA, Das JK, Bhutta ZA. Essential pre-pregnancy and pregnancy interventions for improved maternal, newborn and child health. Reprod Health 2014; 11 Suppl 1:S2. [PMID: 25178042 PMCID: PMC4145858 DOI: 10.1186/1742-4755-11-s1-s2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The statistics related to pregnancy and its outcomes are staggering: annually, an estimated 250000-280000 women die during childbirth. Unfortunately, a large number of women receive little or no care during or before pregnancy. At a period of critical vulnerability, interventions can be effectively delivered to improve the health of women and their newborns and also to make their pregnancy safe. This paper reviews the interventions that are most effective during preconception and pregnancy period and synergistically improve maternal and neonatal outcomes. Among pre-pregnancy interventions, family planning and advocating pregnancies at appropriate intervals; prevention and management of sexually transmitted infections including HIV; and peri-conceptual folic-acid supplementation have shown significant impact on reducing maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. During pregnancy, interventions including antenatal care visit model; iron and folic acid supplementation; tetanus Immunisation; prevention and management of malaria; prevention and management of HIV and PMTCT; calcium for hypertension; anti-Platelet agents (low dose aspirin) for prevention of Pre-eclampsia; anti-hypertensives for treating severe hypertension; management of pregnancy-induced hypertension/eclampsia; external cephalic version for breech presentation at term (>36 weeks); management of preterm, premature rupture of membranes; management of unintended pregnancy; and home visits for women and children across the continuum of care have shown maximum impact on reducing the burden of maternal and newborn morbidity and mortality. All of the interventions summarized in this paper have the potential to improve maternal mortality rates and also contribute to better health care practices during preconception and periconception period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zohra S Lassi
- Division of Women and Child Health, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Tarab Mansoor
- Division of Women and Child Health, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Rehana A Salam
- Division of Women and Child Health, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Jai K Das
- Division of Women and Child Health, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Zulfiqar A Bhutta
- Division of Women and Child Health, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
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Lassi ZS, Kumar R, Mansoor T, Salam RA, Das JK, Bhutta ZA. Essential interventions: implementation strategies and proposed packages of care. Reprod Health 2014; 11 Suppl 1:S5. [PMID: 25178110 PMCID: PMC4145859 DOI: 10.1186/1742-4755-11-s1-s5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
In an effort to accelerate progress towards achieving Millennium Development Goal (MDG) 4 and 5, provision of essential reproductive, maternal, newborn and child health (RMNCH) interventions is being considered. Not only should a state-of-the-art approach be taken for services delivered to the mother, neonate and to the child, but services must also be deployed across the household to hospital continuum of care approach and in the form of packages. The paper proposed several packages for improved maternal, newborn and child health that can be delivered across RMNCH continuum of care. These packages include: supportive care package for women to promote awareness related to healthy pre-pregnancy and pregnancy interventions; nutritional support package for mother to improve supplementation of essential nutrients and micronutrients; antenatal care package to detect, treat and manage infectious and noninfectious diseases and promote immunization; high risk care package to manage preeclampsia and eclampsia in pregnancy; childbirth package to promote support during labor and importance of skilled birth attendance during labor; essential newborn care package to support healthy newborn care practices; and child health care package to prevent and manage infections. This paper further discussed the implementation strategies for employing these interventions at scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zohra S Lassi
- Division of Women and Child Health, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Rohail Kumar
- Division of Women and Child Health, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Tarab Mansoor
- Division of Women and Child Health, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Rehana A Salam
- Division of Women and Child Health, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Jai K Das
- Division of Women and Child Health, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Zulfiqar A Bhutta
- Division of Women and Child Health, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
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Silva S, Henriques R, Borrego MJ, Gomes JP, Afonso E. Congenital neurosyphilis - authors' reply. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2013; 13:475-476. [PMID: 23718919 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(13)70123-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
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Shahrook S, Mori R, Ochirbat T, Gomi H. Strategies of testing for syphilis during pregnancy. THE COCHRANE DATABASE OF SYSTEMATIC REVIEWS 2013. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd010385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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Syphilis Infection during pregnancy: fetal risks and clinical management. Infect Dis Obstet Gynecol 2012; 2012:430585. [PMID: 22829747 PMCID: PMC3398589 DOI: 10.1155/2012/430585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2012] [Accepted: 05/17/2012] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Congenital syphilis is still a cause of perinatal morbidity and mortality. Untreated maternal infection leads to adverse pregnancy outcomes, including early fetal loss, stillbirth, prematurity, low birth weight, neonatal and infant death, and congenital disease among newborns. Clinical manifestations of congenital syphilis are influenced by gestational age, stage of maternal syphilis, maternal treatment, and immunological response of the fetus. It has been traditionally classified in early congenital syphilis and late congenital syphilis. Diagnosis of maternal infection is based on clinical findings, serological tests, and direct identification of treponemes in clinical specimens. Adequate treatment of maternal infection is effective for preventing maternal transmission to the fetus and for treating fetal infection. Prenatal diagnosis of congenital syphilis includes noninvasive and invasive diagnosis. Serological screening during pregnancy and during preconception period should be performed to reduce the incidence of congenital syphilis.
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Bai ZG, Wang B, Yang K, Tian JH, Ma B, Liu Y, Jiang L, Gai QY, He X, Li Y. Azithromycin versus penicillin G benzathine for early syphilis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2012:CD007270. [PMID: 22696367 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd007270.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Syphilis is a complex systemic disease caused by a spirochete, Treponema pallidum. The World Health Organization estimates that at least 12 million people worldwide are currently infected with syphilis. In this review we compared two current standards of treatment for early syphilis, benzathine benzylpenicillin (penicillin G) and azithromycin. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the efficacy and safety of azithromycin versus benzathine penicillin (penicillin G) for early syphilis. SEARCH METHODS We searched the following databases using the search terms detailed in Appendix 1: the Cochrane Sexually Transmitted Diseases Group Specialized Register (July 2011), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) published in The Cochrane Library (Issue 7 2011), MEDLINE (1948 to July 2011), EMBASE (1980 to July 2011), PsycINFO (1806 to July 2011) and the Chinese Biological Medicine Literature Database (CBM) (1978 to 2011). The search was not limited by language. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomized controlled trials comparing azithromycin with benzathine penicillin G at any dose for the treatment of early syphilis. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently applied the inclusion criteria to potential studies, with any disagreements resolved by discussion. The risk of bias of each study was assessed by the same two review authors. We pooled data using an odds ratio (OR). MAIN RESULTS Three studies (generating four eligible study comparisons) were included. One study is ongoing. There was no statistically significant difference between azithromycin and benzathine penicillin treatment in the odds of cure (OR 1.04, 95% CI 0.69 to 1.56); nor any difference at three months (OR 0.97, 95% CI 0.62 to 1.50), six months (OR 1.09, 95% CI 0.76 to 1.54) or nine months (OR 1.45, 95% CI 0.46 to 6.42). Subgroup analysis by primary and latent syphilis and by dose of azithromycin (2 g and 4 g) did not explain the variation between the study results. The reporting of computed mild to tolerated adverse events, from two included trials, indicated no statistically significant difference between azithromycin and benzathine penicillin (OR 1.43, 95% CI 0.42 to 4.95), although with a high level of heterogeneity (P = 0.05, I(2) = 74%). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Differences in the odds of cure did not reach statistical significance when azithromycin was compared with benzathine penicillin for the treatment of early syphilis. No definitive conclusion can be made regarding the relative safety of benzathine penicillin G and azithromycin for early syphilis. Further studies on the utility of benzathine penicillin G for early syphilis are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Gang Bai
- Evidence-Based Medicine Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou City, China
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Walker DG, Walker GJA. Syphilis: still a major cause of infant mortality. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2012; 12:269-271. [PMID: 22459083 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(12)70004-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
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Mabey D, Peeling RW. Syphilis, still a major cause of infant mortality. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2011; 11:654-5. [DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(11)70150-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Abstract
Despite comprehensive antenatal screening recommendations and inexpensive treatment, congenital syphilis has long been and continues to be a public health concern, causing substantial morbidity and adverse outcomes. The following article reviews syphilis etiology and presentation, clinical disease, laboratory diagnosis, and treatment of congenital syphilis. A case will be presented describing a 31-week male infant exposed to infectious syphilis in utero. The neonate presented with classic signs of infection at birth. After initial serology testing of the infant, appropriate treatment was commenced. The infant received crystalline penicillin G for a period of ten days in consultation with pediatric infectious disease specialists. As expected, the infant's rapid plasma reagin (RPR) titers declined by three and six months of age. An interdisciplinary approach provided safe and optimal care for this infant. He was discharged, stable, and thriving at 38 weeks corrected age. Long-term multidisciplinary management and follow-up were arranged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara Follett
- Northern Alberta Neonatal Intensive Care Program at the Stollery Children's Hospital, Alberta, Canada.
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Bhutta ZA, Yakoob MY, Lawn JE, Rizvi A, Friberg IK, Weissman E, Buchmann E, Goldenberg RL. Stillbirths: what difference can we make and at what cost? Lancet 2011; 377:1523-38. [PMID: 21496906 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(10)62269-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 166] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Worldwide, 2·65 million (uncertainty range 2·08 million to 3·79 million) stillbirths occur yearly, of which 98% occur in countries of low and middle income. Despite the fact that more than 45% of the global burden of stillbirths occur intrapartum, the perception is that little is known about effective interventions, especially those that can be implemented in low-resource settings. We undertook a systematic review of randomised trials and observational studies of interventions which could reduce the burden of stillbirths, particularly in low-income and middle-income countries. We identified several interventions with sufficient evidence to recommend implementation in health systems, including periconceptional folic acid supplementation or fortification, prevention of malaria, and improved detection and management of syphilis during pregnancy in endemic areas. Basic and comprehensive emergency obstetric care were identified as key effective interventions to reduce intrapartum stillbirths. Broad-scale implementation of intervention packages across 68 countries listed as priorities in the Countdown to 2015 report could avert up to 45% of stillbirths according to a model generated from the Lives Saved Tool. The overall costs for these interventions are within the general estimates of cost-effective interventions for maternal care, especially in view of the effects on outcomes across maternal, fetal, and neonatal health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zulfiqar A Bhutta
- Division of Women and Child Health, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan.
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Blencowe H, Cousens S, Kamb M, Berman S, Lawn JE. Lives Saved Tool supplement detection and treatment of syphilis in pregnancy to reduce syphilis related stillbirths and neonatal mortality. BMC Public Health 2011; 11 Suppl 3:S9. [PMID: 21501460 PMCID: PMC3231915 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-11-s3-s9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Globally syphilis is an important yet preventable cause of stillbirth, neonatal mortality and morbidity. OBJECTIVES This review sought to estimate the effect of detection and treatment of active syphilis in pregnancy with at least 2.4 MU benzathine penicillin (or equivalent) on syphilis-related stillbirths and neonatal mortality. METHODS We conducted a systematic literature review of multiple databases to identify relevant studies. Data were abstracted into standardised tables and the quality of evidence was assessed using adapted GRADE criteria. Where appropriate, meta-analyses were undertaken. RESULTS Moderate quality evidence (3 studies) supports a reduction in the incidence of clinical congenital syphilis of 97% (95% c.i 93 - 98%) with detection and treatment of women with active syphilis in pregnancy with at least 2.4 MU penicillin. The results of meta-analyses suggest that treatment with penicillin is associated with an 82% reduction in stillbirth (95% c.i. 67 - 90%) (8 studies), a 64% reduction in preterm delivery (95% c.i. 53 - 73%) (7 studies) and an 80% reduction in neonatal deaths (95% c.i. 68 - 87%) (5 studies). Although these effect estimates were large and remarkably consistent across studies, few of the studies adjusted for potential confounding factors and thus the overall quality of the evidence was considered low. However, given these large observed effects and a clear biological mechanism for effectiveness the GRADE recommendation is strong. CONCLUSION Detection and appropriate, timely penicillin treatment is a highly effective intervention to reduce adverse syphilis-related pregnancy outcomes. More research is required to identify the most cost-effective strategies for achieving maximum coverage of screening for all pregnant women, and access to treatment if required.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Simon Cousens
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Mary Kamb
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Division of STD Prevention, Atlanta, USA
| | - Stuart Berman
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Division of STD Prevention, Atlanta, USA
| | - Joy E Lawn
- Saving Newborn Lives/Save the Children-USA, South Africa
- Health Systems Strengthening Unit, Medical Research Council, South Africa
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Turner TJ, Barnes H, Reid J, Garrubba M. Evidence for perinatal and child health care guidelines in crisis settings: can Cochrane help? BMC Public Health 2010; 10:170. [PMID: 20350326 PMCID: PMC3091544 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-10-170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2009] [Accepted: 03/29/2010] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is important that healthcare provided in crisis settings is based on the best available research evidence. We reviewed guidelines for child and perinatal health care in crisis situations to determine whether they were based on research evidence, whether Cochrane systematic reviews were available in the clinical areas addressed by these guidelines and whether summaries of these reviews were provided in Evidence Aid. METHODS Broad internet searches were undertaken to identify relevant guidelines. Guidelines were appraised using AGREE and the clinical areas that were relevant to perinatal or child health were extracted. We searched The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews to identify potentially relevant reviews. For each review we determined how many trials were included, and how many were conducted in resource-limited settings. RESULTS Six guidelines met selection criteria. None of the included guidelines were clearly based on research evidence. 198 Cochrane reviews were potentially relevant to the guidelines. These reviews predominantly addressed nutrient supplementation, breastfeeding, malaria, maternal hypertension, premature labour and prevention of HIV transmission. Most reviews included studies from developing settings. However for large portions of the guidelines, particularly health services delivery, there were no relevant reviews. Only 18 (9.1%) reviews have summaries in Evidence Aid. CONCLUSIONS We did not identify any evidence-based guidelines for perinatal and child health care in disaster settings. We found many Cochrane reviews that could contribute to the evidence-base supporting future guidelines. However there are important issues to be addressed in terms of the relevance of the available reviews and increasing the number of reviews addressing health care delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tari J Turner
- Monash Institute of Health Services Research, Monash University, Locked Bag 29, Clayton 3168 Australia
- Centre for Clinical Effectiveness, Southern Health, Locked Bag 29, Clayton 3168 Australia
| | - Hayley Barnes
- previously of the Australasian Cochrane Centre, Monash University, Locked Bag 29, Clayton 3168 Australia
| | - Jane Reid
- Centre for Clinical Effectiveness, Southern Health, Locked Bag 29, Clayton 3168 Australia
| | - Marie Garrubba
- Centre for Clinical Effectiveness, Southern Health, Locked Bag 29, Clayton 3168 Australia
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Barros FC, Bhutta ZA, Batra M, Hansen TN, Victora CG, Rubens CE. Global report on preterm birth and stillbirth (3 of 7): evidence for effectiveness of interventions. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2010; 10 Suppl 1:S3. [PMID: 20233384 PMCID: PMC2841444 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2393-10-s1-s3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 171] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Interventions directed toward mothers before and during pregnancy and childbirth may help reduce preterm births and stillbirths. Survival of preterm newborns may also be improved with interventions given during these times or soon after birth. This comprehensive review assesses existing interventions for low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). METHODS Approximately 2,000 intervention studies were systematically evaluated through December 31, 2008. They addressed preterm birth or low birth weight; stillbirth or perinatal mortality; and management of preterm newborns. Out of 82 identified interventions, 49 were relevant to LMICs and had reasonable amounts of evidence, and therefore selected for in-depth reviews. Each was classified and assessed by the quality of available evidence and its potential to treat or prevent preterm birth and stillbirth. Impacts on other maternal, fetal, newborn or child health outcomes were also considered. Assessments were based on an adaptation of the Grades of Recommendation Assessment, Development and Evaluation criteria. RESULTS Most interventions require additional research to improve the quality of evidence. Others had little evidence of benefit and should be discontinued. The following are supported by moderate- to high-quality evidence and strongly recommended for LMICs: Two interventions prevent preterm births--smoking cessation and progesterone. Eight interventions prevent stillbirths--balanced protein energy supplementation, screening and treatment of syphilis, intermittant presumptive treatment for malaria during pregnancy, insecticide-treated mosquito nets, birth preparedness, emergency obstetric care, cesarean section for breech presentation, and elective induction for post-term delivery. Eleven interventions improve survival of preterm newborns--prophylactic steroids in preterm labor, antibiotics for PROM, vitamin K supplementation at delivery, case management of neonatal sepsis and pneumonia, delayed cord clamping, room air (vs. 100% oxygen) for resuscitation, hospital-based kangaroo mother care, early breastfeeding, thermal care, and surfactant therapy and application of continued distending pressure to the lungs for respiratory distress syndrome CONCLUSION The research paradigm for discovery science and intervention development must be balanced to address prevention as well as improve morbidity and mortality in all settings. This review also reveals significant gaps in current knowledge of interventions spanning the continuum of maternal and fetal outcomes, and the critical need to generate further high-quality evidence for promising interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando C Barros
- Post-Graduate Course in Health and Behaviour, Universidade Catolica de Pelotas, Brazil
| | | | - Maneesh Batra
- Divison of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | | | | | - Craig E Rubens
- Global Alliance to Prevent Prematurity and Stillbirth, an initiative of Seattle Children's, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Pediatrics at University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
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Menezes EV, Yakoob MY, Soomro T, Haws RA, Darmstadt GL, Bhutta ZA. Reducing stillbirths: prevention and management of medical disorders and infections during pregnancy. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2009; 9 Suppl 1:S4. [PMID: 19426467 PMCID: PMC2679410 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2393-9-s1-s4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND An estimated two-thirds of the world's 3.2 million stillbirths occur antenatally, prior to labour, and are often overlooked in policy and programs. Poorly recognised, untreated or inadequately treated maternal infections such as syphilis and malaria, and maternal conditions including hypertensive disorders, are known risk factors for stillbirth. METHODS We undertook a systematic review of the evidence for 16 antenatal interventions with the potential to prevent stillbirths. We searched a range of sources including PubMed and the Cochrane Library. For interventions with prior Cochrane reviews, we conducted additional meta-analyses including eligible newer randomised controlled trials following the Cochrane protocol. We focused on interventions deliverable at the community level in low-/middle-income countries, where the burden of stillbirths is greatest. RESULTS Few of the studies we included reported stillbirth as an outcome; most that did were underpowered to assess this outcome. While Cochrane reviews or meta-analyses were available for many interventions, few focused on stillbirth or perinatal mortality as outcomes, and evidence was frequently conflicting. Several interventions showed clear evidence of impact on stillbirths, including heparin therapy for certain maternal indications; syphilis screening and treatment; and insecticide-treated bed nets for prevention of malaria. Other interventions, such as management of obstetric intrahepatic cholestasis, maternal anti-helminthic treatment, and intermittent preventive treatment of malaria, showed promising impact on stillbirth rates but require confirmatory studies. Several interventions reduced known risk factors for stillbirth (e.g., anti-hypertensive drugs for chronic hypertension), yet failed to show statistically significant impact on stillbirth or perinatal mortality rates. Periodontal disease emerged as a clear risk factor for stillbirth but no interventions have reduced stillbirth rates. CONCLUSION Evidence for some newly recognised risk factors for stillbirth, including periodontal disease, suggests the need for large, appropriately designed randomised trials to test whether intervention can minimise these risks and prevent stillbirths. Existing evidence strongly supports infection control measures, including syphilis screening and treatment and malaria prophylaxis in endemic areas, for preventing antepartum stillbirths. These interventions should be incorporated into antenatal care programs based on attributable risks and burden of disease.
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MESH Headings
- Anthelmintics/therapeutic use
- Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use
- Anticoagulants/therapeutic use
- Antihypertensive Agents/therapeutic use
- Antioxidants/therapeutic use
- Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use
- Causality
- Cholestasis, Intrahepatic/epidemiology
- Cholestasis, Intrahepatic/prevention & control
- Comorbidity
- Dental Care/methods
- Dietary Supplements
- Evidence-Based Medicine
- Female
- Fetal Death/epidemiology
- Fetal Death/prevention & control
- Fetal Membranes, Premature Rupture/epidemiology
- Fetal Membranes, Premature Rupture/prevention & control
- Global Health
- HIV Infections/epidemiology
- HIV Infections/prevention & control
- Humans
- Hypertension/epidemiology
- Hypertension/prevention & control
- Hypertension, Pregnancy-Induced/epidemiology
- Hypertension, Pregnancy-Induced/prevention & control
- Infectious Disease Transmission, Vertical/prevention & control
- Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors/therapeutic use
- Pregnancy
- Pregnancy Complications, Cardiovascular/epidemiology
- Pregnancy Complications, Cardiovascular/prevention & control
- Pregnancy Complications, Infectious/epidemiology
- Pregnancy Complications, Infectious/prevention & control
- Pregnancy Complications, Infectious/therapy
- Prenatal Care/methods
- Risk Factors
- Stillbirth/epidemiology
- Venous Thromboembolism/epidemiology
- Venous Thromboembolism/prevention & control
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Affiliation(s)
- Esme V Menezes
- Division of Maternal and Child Health, The Aga Khan University, Karachi-74800, Pakistan
| | - Mohammad Yawar Yakoob
- Division of Maternal and Child Health, The Aga Khan University, Karachi-74800, Pakistan
| | - Tanya Soomro
- Division of Maternal and Child Health, The Aga Khan University, Karachi-74800, Pakistan
| | - Rachel A Haws
- Department of International Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Gary L Darmstadt
- Department of International Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Zulfiqar A Bhutta
- Division of Maternal and Child Health, The Aga Khan University, Karachi-74800, Pakistan
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Trends in the prevalence of HIV and syphilis among pregnant women under antenatal care in central Venezuela. Int J Infect Dis 2008; 13:e189-91. [PMID: 19013092 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2008.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2008] [Revised: 08/05/2008] [Accepted: 08/19/2008] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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Swadpanich U, Lumbiganon P, Prasertcharoensook W, Laopaiboon M. Antenatal lower genital tract infection screening and treatment programs for preventing preterm delivery. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2008:CD006178. [PMID: 18425940 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd006178.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preterm birth is birth before 37 weeks' gestation. Genital tract infection is one of the causes of preterm birth. Infection screening during pregnancy has been used to reduce preterm birth. However, infection screening may have some adverse effects, e.g. increased antibiotic drug resistance, increased costs of treatment. OBJECTIVES To assess the effectiveness and complications of antenatal lower genital tract infection screening and treatment programs in reducing preterm birth and subsequent morbidity. SEARCH STRATEGY We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group's Trials Register (January 2008) and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (The Cochrane Library 2007, Issue 2). SELECTION CRITERIA We included all published and unpublished randomised controlled trials in any language that evaluated any described methods of antenatal lower genital tract infection screening compared with no screening. Preterm births have been reported as an outcome. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently assessed eligibility, trial quality and extracted data. MAIN RESULTS One study (4155 women) met the inclusion criteria. This trial is of high methodological quality. In the intervention group (2058 women), the results of infection screening and treatment for bacterial vaginosis, trichomonas vaginalis and candidiasis were reported; in the control group (2097 women), the results of the screening program for the women allocated to receive routine antenatal care were not reported. Preterm birth before 37 weeks was significantly lower in the intervention group (3% versus 5% in the control group) with a relative risk (RR) of 0.55 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.41 to 0.75). The incidence of preterm birth for low birthweight preterm infants with a weight equal to or below 2500 g and very low birthweight infants with a weight equal to or below 1500 g were significantly lower in the intervention group than in the control group (RR 0.48, 95% CI 0.34 to 0.66 and RR 0.34; 95% CI 0.15 to 0.75, respectively). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS There is evidence that infection screening and treatment programs in pregnant women may reduce preterm birth and preterm low birthweights. Future trials should evaluate the effects of types of infection screening program, gestational ages at screening test and the costs of introducing an infection screening program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ussanee Swadpanich
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Khon Kaen Hospital, Srichan Road, Maung, Khon Kaen, Thailand, 40000.
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Sheikh L, Johnston S, Thangaratinam S, Kilby MD, Khan KS. A review of the methodological features of systematic reviews in maternal medicine. BMC Med 2007; 5:10. [PMID: 17524137 PMCID: PMC1910604 DOI: 10.1186/1741-7015-5-10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2006] [Accepted: 05/24/2007] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In maternal medicine, research evidence is scattered making it difficult to access information for clinical decision making. Systematic reviews of good methodological quality are essential to provide valid inferences and to produce usable evidence summaries to guide management. This review assesses the methodological features of existing systematic reviews in maternal medicine, comparing Cochrane and non-Cochrane reviews in maternal medicine. METHODS Medline, Embase, Database of Reviews of Effectiveness (DARE) and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (CDSR) were searched for relevant reviews published between 2001 and 2006. We selected those reviews in which a minimum of two databases were searched and the primary outcome was related to the maternal condition. The selected reviews were assessed for information on framing of question, literature search and methods of review. RESULTS Out of 2846 citations, 68 reviews were selected. Among these, 39 (57%) were Cochrane reviews. Most of the reviews (50/68, 74%) evaluated therapeutic interventions. Overall, 54/68 (79%) addressed a focussed question. Although 64/68 (94%) reviews had a detailed search description, only 17/68 (25%) searched without language restriction. 32/68 (47%) attempted to include unpublished data and 11/68 (16%) assessed for the risk of missing studies quantitatively. The reviews had deficiencies in the assessment of validity of studies and exploration for heterogeneity. When compared to Cochrane reviews, other reviews were significantly inferior in specifying questions (OR 20.3, 95% CI 1.1-381.3, p = 0.04), framing focussed questions (OR 30.9, 95% CI 3.7- 256.2, p = 0.001), use of unpublished data (OR 5.6, 95% CI 1.9-16.4, p = 0.002), assessment for heterogeneity (OR 38.1, 95%CI 2.1, 688.2, p = 0.01) and use of meta-analyses (OR 3.7, 95% CI 1.3-10.8, p = 0.02). CONCLUSION This study identifies areas which have a strong influence on maternal morbidity and mortality but lack good quality systematic reviews. Overall quality of the existing systematic reviews was variable. Cochrane reviews were of better quality as compared to other reviews. There is a need for good quality systematic reviews to inform practice in maternal medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lumaan Sheikh
- Academic Unit, Birmingham Women's Hospital, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2 TG, UK
| | - Shelley Johnston
- Academic Unit, Birmingham Women's Hospital, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2 TG, UK
| | - Shakila Thangaratinam
- Academic Unit, Birmingham Women's Hospital, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2 TG, UK
- Clinical Lecturer in Obstetrics and Gynaecology and Clinical Epidemiology, Academic Unit, 3rd floor, Birmingham Women's Hospital, Birmingham B15 2TG, UK
| | - Mark D Kilby
- Academic Unit, Birmingham Women's Hospital, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2 TG, UK
| | - Khalid S Khan
- Academic Unit, Birmingham Women's Hospital, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2 TG, UK
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Li CH, Su CL, Lin WC, Lin RT. Status epilepticus as an initial manifestation of neurosyphilis: a case report. Kaohsiung J Med Sci 2006; 22:404-9. [PMID: 16911923 DOI: 10.1016/s1607-551x(09)70330-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Seizures and focal neurologic deficits may be the complications of neurosyphilis, but status epilepticus as a presenting picture of neurosyphilis is rare. We describe a 41-year-old man with an acute onset of expressive dysphasia, followed by persistent seizure state and severe complications of systemic medical problems. An extensive laboratory evaluation confirmed the diagnosis of neurosyphilis and diabetes mellitus. Brain magnetic resonance imaging showed edematous change in the left cingulate gyrus, left temporal lobe, and peri-Rolandic area, which suggested an inflammatory process. Due to varied clinical manifestations of neurosyphilis, we underscore the importance of considering neurosyphilis among the possible causes of status epilepticus and any central nervous system diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chien-Hsun Li
- Department of Neurology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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Saraceni V, Leal MDC, Hartz ZMDA. Avaliação de campanhas de saúde com ênfase na sífilis congênita: uma revisão sistemática. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE SAÚDE MATERNO INFANTIL 2005. [DOI: 10.1590/s1519-38292005000300002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Campanhas têm sido instrumentos de políticas públicas de saúde, freqüentemente utilizadas no Brasil para esclarecer, motivar ou conseguir o apoio da população e/ou dos profissionais de saúde, em ações relevantes para a saúde pública. Esta revisão procurou levantar subsídios para a avaliação de campanhas de saúde, particularizando-se as metodologias utilizadas, tendo em vista a avaliação de campanhas dirigidas ao controle da sífilis congênita. Os conjuntos de palavras-chave utilizados foram "sífilis congênita + avaliação"; "campanhas de saúde + avaliação" e, "campanha + saúde + avaliação". As bases de dados pesquisadas foram a Medline (Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online) da National Library of Medicine (EUA), a LILACS (Literatura Latino-Americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde) e da PAHO (Pan-American Health Organization), no período de 1980 e 2003. Foram incluídos 37 artigos nessa revisão, sendo 15 referentes à sífilis congênita e avaliação e 22 à campanha de saúde e avaliação. A revisão realizada mostrou que existe um espaço a ser preenchido neste campo, principalmente no que se refere à construção metodológica. Apesar da palavra avaliação constar nesses vários artigos, a fundamentação teórica encontrada não foi totalmente condizente com as propostas apresentadas.
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