Management of precancerous anal intraepithelial lesions in human immunodeficiency virus-positive men who have sex with men: Clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness

Deep Learning and High-Resolution Anoscopy: Development of an Interoperable Algorithm for the Detection and Differentiation of Anal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Precursors-A Multicentric Study

High-resolution anoscopy (HRA) plays a central role in the detection and treatment of precursors of anal squamous cell carcinoma (ASCC). Artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms have shown high levels of efficiency in detecting and differentiating HSIL from low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (LSIL) in HRA images. Our aim was to develop a deep learning system for the automatic detection and differentiation of HSIL versus LSIL using HRA images from both conventional and digital proctoscopes. A convolutional neural network (CNN) was developed based on 151 HRA exams performed at two volume centers using conventional and digital HRA systems. A total of 57,822 images were included, 28,874 images containing HSIL and 28,948 LSIL. Partial subanalyses were performed to evaluate the performance of the CNN in the subset of images acetic acid and lugol iodine staining and after treatment of the anal canal. The overall accuracy of the CNN in distinguishing HSIL from LSIL during the testing stage was 94.6%. The algorithm had an overall sensitivity and specificity of 93.6% and 95.7%, respectively (AUC 0.97). For staining with acetic acid, HSIL was differentiated from LSIL with an overall accuracy of 96.4%, while for lugol and after therapeutic manipulation, these values were 96.6% and 99.3%, respectively. The introduction of AI algorithms to HRA may enhance the early diagnosis of ASCC precursors, and this system was shown to perform adequately across conventional and digital HRA interfaces.

International Anal Neoplasia Society's consensus guidelines for anal cancer screening

The International Anal Neoplasia Society (IANS) developed consensus guidelines to inform anal cancer screening use among various high-risk groups. Anal cancer incidence estimates by age among risk groups provided the basis to identify risk thresholds to recommend screening. Guided by risk thresholds, screening initiation at age 35 years was recommended for men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TW) with HIV. For other people with HIV and MSM and TW not with HIV, screening initiation at age 45 years was recommended. For solid organ transplant recipients, screening initiation beginning from 10 years post-transplant was recommended. For persons with a history of vulvar precancer or cancer, screening initiation was recommended starting within 1 year of diagnosis of vulvar precancer or cancer. Persons aged ≥45 years with a history of cervical/vaginal HSIL or cancer, perianal warts, persistent (>1 year) cervical HPV16, or autoimmune conditions could be considered for screening with shared decision-making, provided there is adequate capacity to perform diagnostic procedures (high-resolution anoscopy [HRA]). Anal cytology, high-risk (hr) human papillomavirus (HPV) testing (including genotyping for HPV16), and hrHPV-cytology co-testing are different strategies currently used for anal cancer screening that show acceptable performance. Thresholds for referral for HRA or follow-up screening tests are delineated. These recommendations from IANS provide the basis to inform management of abnormal screening results, considering currently available screening tools. These guidelines provide a pivotal foundation to help generate consensus among providers and inform the introduction and implementation of risk-targeted screening for anal cancer prevention.

Anal cancer screening results from 18-to-34-year-old men who have sex with men living with HIV

Men who have sex with men living with HIV (MSM LWH) are at highest risk for human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated anal cancer. There is no consensus on the optimal screening initiation age. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and severity of anal HPV disease among MSM LWH under the age of 35, which is a currently proposed screening age threshold. Between 2014 and 2020, 1255 18-to-34-year-old MSM LWH underwent anal cytology screening. 916 were co-tested for high-risk HPV (HR-HPV). 467 underwent high-resolution anoscopy (HRA) and biopsy. Cancer registry data were queried. Predictors of abnormal cytology (ie, ≥ASCUS) and histological high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL) were evaluated using unadjusted logistic regression models. Median age was 28 years (range, 18-34). 19% received at least one dose of HPV vaccine. Abnormal cytology rate was 65%. HR-HPV and HPV16 prevalence were 87% and 30%. Biopsy results were benign (10%), LSIL (43%) and HSIL (47%). No cases of prevalent or incident anal cancers were detected. Findings were similar between age subgroups (18-24, 25-29 and 30-34) except for a higher prevalence of AIN 3 in the 30-34 group (19%). Abnormal cytology was significantly associated with HR-HPV infection. Histological HSIL was associated with HR-HPV infection and cytological LSIL or worse. The absence of anal cancer in a large cohort of MSM LWH under the age of 35, despite high prevalence of anal HR-HPV infection and precancer, supports an age-based anal cancer screening strategy for MSM LWH.

Safety, feasibility, and short-term-outcome of anal endoscopic submucosal dissection for anal intraepithelial neoplasia: an option for focal lesions?

BACKGROUND

Anal intraepithelial neoplasia (AIN) appears in three different stages. AIN 1 and AIN 2 (p16 negative) are defined as low risk and unlikely to progress to invasive anal cancer. AIN 2 (p16 positive) and AIN 3 are of high risk and should be treated because progression rates to anal cancer are around 10% and treatment significantly reduces this risk. The correct treatment is still a matter of debate. Human papilloma virus (HPV) plays a role in the development of AIN. Our aim was to assess anal endoscopic dissection (aESD) as an intervention for AIN3.

METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated patients who underwent aESD for AIN 3 between December 2017 and March 2023. The interventional technique itself (duration, complications, size of specimen) and patient outcomes (recurrence, progression to anal cancer, re-intervention) were analyzed.

RESULTS

Fifteen patients with a median age of 52 years (23-78) underwent aESD for AIN 3. All tested specimens were positive for HPV. Median duration of intervention was 56.1 min, one delayed postinterventional bleeding occurred, and specimen size was 12.05 cm2. Median follow-up was 11.17 months. Three recurrences (20%) appeared: one was resected via biopsy and two were again treated with aESD. There was no progression to invasive anal cancer in the follow-up period.

CONCLUSIONS

Anal endoscopic submucosal dissection seems to be a safe and feasible treatment for AIN. Recurrences are seldom and can be treated again with the same method. Nevertheless, indications for resection in comparison to radiofrequency ablation, pharmacological therapy, and watch-and-wait strategy are still unclear.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Ethics commission of Salzburg, Austria, EK-Nr. 1056/2023. Keywords: Endoscopic submucosal dissection, anal intraepithelial neoplasia, anal cancer.

Human Papillomavirus-Associated Anal Cancer Incidence and Burden Among US Men, According to Sexual Orientation, Human Immunodeficiency Virus Status, and Age

BACKGROUND

Men who have sex with men (MSM) without HIV are known to be at elevated relative risk for Human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated anal cancer in comparison to men who have sex with women (MSW), but are poorly characterized in terms of anal cancer incidence due to absence of reporting of sexual behavior/identity at a population-level.

METHODS

By combining age-specific statistics from multiple data sources (anal cancer incidence among all males; anal cancer incidence among MSM and MSW with HIV; population size of men with HIV by sexual orientation), we developed a mathematical model to estimate anal cancer incidence, annual number of cases, and proportion by (a) sexual orientation (MSM versus MSW), (b) HIV status, and (c) age (<30, 30-44, 45-59, and ≥60 years).

RESULTS

Anal cancer incidence (per 100 000) among MSM without HIV was 1.4 (95% uncertainty interval [UI], 0.6 to 2.3), 17.6 (95% UI = 13.8-23.5), and 33.9 (95% UI = 28.3-42.3), at ages 30-44, 45-59 and ≥60 years, respectively. 19.1% of all male anal cancer occurred in MSM without HIV, increasing from 4% of anal cancer diagnosed at 30-44 years to 24% at ≥60 years; 54.3% occurred in MSW without HIV (increasing from 13% at age 30-44 to 67% at >60 years), and the remaining 26.6% in men (MSM and MSW combined) with HIV (decreasing from 83% at age 30-44 to 9% at >60 years).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings should inform anal cancer prevention recommendations in male risk groups, including, for the first time, for the important group of MSM without HIV.

Impact of Human Papillomavirus Vaccination on Male Disease: A Systematic Review

Human papillomavirus (HPV)-related diseases are highly prevalent in men worldwide, comprising external anogenital condyloma, anal intraepithelial neoplasia (AIN), penile intraepithelial neoplasia (PIN), and anogenital and oropharyngeal cancers. There is exceptionally low vaccine coverage in the male population. Only 4% of men were fully vaccinated, worldwide, as of 2019. The aim of this review is to assess the impact of HPV vaccination on male disease. Three databases (MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus) and Clinical Trials.gov were searched. We included thirteen studies, eight randomized controlled trials (RCTs), and five cohorts, comprising a total of 14,239 participants. Regarding anal disease, seven studies reported HPV vaccine efficacy ranging from 91.1% to 93.1% against AIN1, and ranging from 89.6% to 91.7% against AIN2|3 and anal cancer. Five studies showed an efficacy against genital condyloma of 89.9% in HPV-naïve males, varying between 66.7% and 67.2% in intention-to-treat populations. Studies reporting no efficacy have included older participants. These results support vaccination of young men previously infected, beyond HPV-naïve males. The evidence quality was moderate to low for most outcomes, namely genital diseases. RCTs are needed to assess the efficacy of HPV vaccination on male oropharyngeal cancer.

Comparison of anal pre-cancer screening strategies among men who have sex with men

PURPOSE

Comparison of anal pre-cancer screening strategies in men who have sex with men (MSM).

METHODS

MSM in the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study underwent repeated anal cytology (aCyt), oncogenic human papillomavirus (oncHPV) testing. A subset received High-Resolution Anoscopy (HRA). We evaluated three screening strategies for their ability to predict anal histological High-Grade Squamous Intraepithelial lesion (HSIL): single aCyt, sequential aCyt, and oncHPV co-testing. Multivariable logistic regression models evaluated risk of HSIL among participants undergoing HRA within 5 years of screening. Sensitivity and specificity were estimated among participants with HRA, and results corrected for verification bias using weighted generalized estimating equations.

RESULTS

There were 1426 MSM with aCyt screening (48% people with HIV [PWH]) and 428 that underwent HRA. Median age was 57 years, 14% of PWH had CD4< 350 cells/mm3. HSIL probability was higher in MSM with one (39%, p < 0.01) or two abnormal aCyt results (46%, p < 0.01), versus those with normal aCyt (23-24%). Among men with abnormal aCyt, men with oncHPV+ had significantly higher risk than those who were oncHPV- (47% vs. 16%, p < 0.01). Specificity was modest with single aCyt+ (50%) but increased with sequential aCyt+ (79%) or oncHPV+ (67%). Sensitivity was high with single oncHPV+ (88%), moderate with single aCyt+ (66%) and oncHPV+ co-testing (61%), and low with sequential aCyt+ (39%). After correcting for potential verification bias, specificity increased and sensitivity decreased, but inferences were similar.

CONCLUSION

None of the screening strategies evaluated had both sufficient specificity and sensitivity to warrant routine widespread use.

Global burden of HPV-attributable squamous cell carcinoma of the anus in 2020, according to sex and HIV status: A worldwide analysis

Squamous cell carcinoma of the anus (SCCA) is caused by HPV, and is elevated in persons living with HIV (PLWHIV). We aimed to estimate sex- and HIV-stratified SCCA burden at a country, regional and global level. Using anal cancer incidence estimates from 185 countries available through GLOBOCAN 2020, and region/country-specific proportions of SCCA vs non-SCCA from the Cancer Incidence in Five Continents (CI5) Volume XI database, we estimated country- and sex-specific SCCA incidence. Proportions of SCCA diagnosed in PLWHIV, and attributable to HIV, were calculated using estimates of HIV prevalence (UNAIDS 2019) and relative risk applied to SCCA incidence. Of 30 416 SCCA estimated globally in 2020, two-thirds occurred in women (19 792) and one-third among men (10 624). Fifty-three percent of male SCCA and 65% of female SCCA occurred in countries with a very high Human Development Index (HDI). Twenty-one percent of the global male SCCA burden occurred in PLWHIV (n = 2203), largely concentrated in North America, Europe and Africa. While, only 3% of global female SCCA burden (n = 561) occurred in PLWHIV, mainly in Africa. The global age-standardized incidence rate of HIV-negative SCCA was higher in women (0.55 cases per 100 000) than men (0.28), whereas HIV-positive SCCA was higher in men (0.07) than women (0.02). HIV prevalence reached >40% in 22 countries for male SCCA and in 10 countries for female SCCA, mostly in Africa. Understanding global SCCA burden by HIV status can inform SCCA prevention programs (through HPV vaccination, screening and HIV control) and help raise awareness to combat the disease.

Cost-effectiveness of screening and treating anal pre-cancerous lesions among gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men living with HIV

Background

Gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBM) living with HIV have a substantially elevated risk of anal cancer (85 cases per 100,000 person-years vs 1-2 cases per 100,000 person-years in the general population). The precursor to anal cancer is high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL). Findings regarding the cost-effectiveness of HSIL screening and treatment in GBM are conflicting. Using recent data on HSIL natural history and treatment effectiveness, we aimed to improve upon earlier models.

Methods

We developed a Markov cohort model populated using observational study data and published literature. Our study population was GBM living with HIV aged ≥35 years. We used a lifetime horizon and framed our model on the Australian healthcare perspective. The intervention was anal HSIL screening and treatment. Our primary outcome was the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) as cost per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) gained.

Findings

Anal cancer incidence was estimated to decline by 44-70% following implementation of annual HSIL screening and treatment. However, for the most cost-effective screening method assessed, the ICER relative to current practice, Australian Dollar (AUD) 135,800 per QALY gained, remained higher than Australia's commonly accepted willingness-to-pay threshold of AUD 50,000 per QALY gained. In probabilistic sensitivity analyses, HSIL screening and treatment had a 20% probability of being cost-effective. When the sensitivity and specificity of HSIL screening were enhanced beyond the limits of current technology, without an increase in the cost of screening, ICERs improved but were still not cost-effective. Cost-effectiveness was achieved with a screening test that had 95% sensitivity, 95% specificity, and cost ≤ AUD 24 per test.

Interpretation

Establishing highly sensitive and highly specific HSIL screening methods that cost less than currently available techniques remains a research priority.

Funding

No specific funding was received for this analysis.

Administering the HPV Vaccine to People Living with HIV: Providers' Perspectives

HIV-positive patients suffer disproportionate burden of anal cancer, a disease which is primarily caused by persistent infection with human papillomavirus (HPV) and is potentially preventable with the completion of the HPV vaccine series. Past research qualitatively explored HIV-positive patients' perspectives about the HPV vaccine. However, little is known about their healthcare practitioners' vaccine recommendation behaviors, the strongest influence on vaccine uptake. This study reports on in-depth interviews conducted with 25 healthcare practitioners who provide care for HIV-positive patients. Qualitative themes that emerged from the study included clinicians' HPV vaccination behaviors, HIV patient's willingness to get the HPV vaccine, the role of HIV-positive patients' immune functioning in terms of timing of HPV vaccine administration, and vaccinating HIV-positive patients over age 26. The majority of providers offered the vaccine at their healthcare facility. Participants varied in their opinions related to the importance of patients' CD4 count in terms of timing of HPV vaccine administration; some believed that patients' immune functioning should first be stabilized to receive the most benefit from the vaccine series. They also differed in the perceived benefit of offering the vaccine to patients over age 26. In light of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's recent approval to extend HPV vaccination to adults up to age 45 years, more HIV-positive adults may benefit by receiving this vaccine series. Future efforts should ensure that providers regularly promote the HPV vaccine to their adult HIV-positive patients. Vaccinating HIV-positive patients may help reduce the burden of HPV-related cancers, particularly anal cancer.

Incidence Trends and Burden of Human Papillomavirus-Associated Cancers Among Women in the United States, 2001-2017

Human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated anal and oropharyngeal cancer incidence has increased in recent years among US women. However, trends in incidence and burden (annual number of cases) of noncervical HPV-associated cancers relative to cervical cancer remain unclear. Using the 2001-2017 US cancer statistics dataset, we evaluated contemporary incidence trends and burden (annual number of cases) of HPV-associated cancers among women by anatomic site, race or ethnicity, and age. Overall, cervical cancer incidence plateaued among White women but continued to decline among Black and Hispanic women. Anal cancer incidence surpassed cervical cancer incidence among White women aged 65-74 years of age (8.6 and 8.2 per 100 000 in 2015) and 75 years or older (6.2 and 6.0 per 100 000 in 2014). The noncervical cancer burden (n  =  11 871) surpassed the cervical cancer burden (n  =  11 527) in 2013. Development of efficacious screening strategies for noncervical cancers and continued improvement in cervical cancer prevention are needed to combat HPV-associated cancers among women.

Recent Trends in Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Anus Incidence and Mortality in the United States, 2001-2015

BACKGROUND

Squamous cell carcinoma of the anus (SCCA) incidence is rising in the United States. Study of incidence trends by stage at diagnosis, age-specific and birth cohort patterns, and trends in mortality could provide evidence for a true increase and etiological clues for the increase in incidence.

METHODS

Using the US Cancer Statistics dataset, we examined trends in SCCA incidence (2001-2015) and mortality (2001-2016) rates. Join-point regression was used to compute annual and average annual percentage change (AAPC). Incidence patterns by 5-year age group and birth cohort were evaluated using incidence rate ratios (IRRs) and age-period-cohort modeling.

RESULTS

SCCA incidence increased 2.7% per year (95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.1% to 3.3%), with pronounced increases in age groups 50 years and older. Distant-stage SCCA incidence tripled (AAPC = 8.6%, 95% CI = 5.4% to 12.0%, among men and AAPC = 7.5%, 95% CI = 4.8% to 10.2%, among women) and regional-stage SCCA incidence nearly doubled (AAPC = 4.7% for men and women) in both sexes; the AAPC for localized stage was 1.3% (95% CI = 0.6% to 2.0%) in men and 2.3% (95% CI = 1.8% to 2.8%) in women. Compared with adults born circa 1946, recently born black men (born circa 1986) had a nearly fivefold higher risk (IRR = 4.7, 95% CI = 2.1 to 10.2) of SCCA, and the risk doubled among white men (IRR = 2.0, 95% CI = 1.7 to 2.2) and white women (IRR = 2.1, 95% CI = 1.9 to 2.3) born after circa 1960. Anal cancer mortality rates increased 3.1% per year (95% CI = 2.6% to 3.5%) with statistically significant increases in age groups 50 years and older. SCCA incidence-based mortality increased 1.9% annually (95% CI = 0.5% to 3.4%), with a notable (4.9%, 95% CI = 2.4% to 7.3%, per year) rise in adults ages 60-69 years.

CONCLUSION

The increase in SCCA incidence, particularly advanced-stage disease, and a similar increase in mortality suggest a true increase in the occurrence of SCCA. Future research and improved prevention are urgently needed to mitigate the increasing disease burden.

Routine Screening of Anal Cytology in Persons With Human Immunodeficiency Virus and the Impact on Invasive Anal Cancer: A Prospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

The efficacy of screening programs to prevent anal cancer in persons with human immunodeficiency virus 1 (HIV-1) is unclear.

METHODS

To examine the impact of a screening program to detect anal cancer precursors on the incidence of cases of invasive anal squamous-cell carcinoma (IASCC) in persons with HIV-1, we performed a single-center, retrospective analysis of a prospective cohort of outpatients with HIV-1 attending a reference HIV unit from January 2005 onward. All participants were invited to participate in a continued structured screening program for anal cancer prevention. We estimated the incidence of IASCC and performed a comparative analysis between subjects enrolled in the screening program (screening group) and those who declined to participate (nonscreening group). To reduce any selection bias, a propensity score analysis was applied.

RESULTS

We included 3111 persons with HIV-1 (1596 men-who-have-sex-with-men [MSM], 888 men-who-have-sex-with-women [MSW], 627 women; mean age, 41 years), with a median follow-up of 4.7 years (14 595 patient-years of follow-up); 1691 (54%) participated in the screening program. Ten patients were diagnosed with IASCC: 2 (MSM) in the screening group and 8 (4 MSM, 2 MSW, and 2 women) in the nonscreening group. The incidence rates of IASCC were 21.9 (95% confidence interval [CI], 2.7-70.3) and 107.0 (95% CI, 46.2-202.0) per 100 000 person-years, respectively. After a propensity score adjustment, the difference was significant in favor of the screening group (hazard ratio, 0.17; 95% CI, .03-.86).

CONCLUSIONS

The number of cases of IASCC was significantly lower in persons with HIV engaged in an anal cytology screening program. These results should be validated in a randomized clinical trial.

High-resolution anoscopy, is there a benefit in proceeding directly to the operating room?

BACKGROUND

The development of high-resolution anoscopy (HRA) has advanced our ability to detect anal dysplasia. Historically, HRA is performed in a clinical setting and subsequent ablation is performed in the clinical setting or operating room. The aim of this study was to determine the most effective venue for the performance of HRA.

METHODS

Following institutional review board (IRB) approval, the correlation between anal cytology and HRA performed in the clinic versus in the operating room was evaluated. Data were extracted from our IRB-approved prospective HRA database over the time period of 2013-2017.

RESULTS

One hundred twenty-eight HRAs were compared (101 in the clinical setting, 27 in the operating room). There was a statistically significant difference in the correlation between anal cytology and HRA pathology for procedures performed in the clinical setting (55% [56/101]) versus those performed in the operating room (82% [22/27]) (p = 0.014). More biopsies were obtained in the operating room than in the clinic setting (3 vs. 1, p < 0.0001). The majority of patients who had HRA in a clinical setting with subsequent HRA in the operating room stated that they preferred to have their HRAs performed in the operating room due to discomfort from the HRA procedure.

CONCLUSIONS

Detection rates for anal dysplasia on HRA, are significantly higher when performed in the operating room. To prevent discomfort in the clinical setting, patients with high-grade dysplasia on anal pap testing may benefit from proceeding directly to the operating room for concurrent HRA and ablation.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Anus Incidence, Mortality, and Survival Among the General Population and Persons Living With HIV in Puerto Rico, 2000-2016

PURPOSE

Squamous cell carcinoma of the anus (SCCA) is common among persons living with HIV (PLWH). We described SCCA incidence and survival among the general population and among PLWH in Puerto Rico (PR), along with mortality of anal cancer.

METHODS

PR HIV/AIDS Surveillance Program and the PR Central Cancer Registry databases were linked (2000-2016). Incidence rates (IRs) and trends (annual percent change [APC]) in SCCA and mortality rates and trends for anal cancer were estimated. Relative survival and relative excess risk (RER) of death were calculated.

RESULTS

From 2000 to 2016, 991 individuals in PR were diagnosed with anal cancer; 73% of cases were SCCA 9.1% of SCCA and 1.5% of non-SCCA cases were in PLWH (P < .0001). SCCA incidence was higher among PLWH than the general population (IR = 27.7/100,000). Among PLWH, SCCA incidence (per 100,000) was the highest among men who have sex with men (IR = 60.5). From 2001-2016, SCCA incidence increased among the general population (APC: 4.90, P < .05); however, no significant change was observed among PLWH (APC = 0.19 and P = .96). The APC for anal cancer mortality in the general population was positive (3.9%) from 2000 to 2016, but not significant (P > .05). The 5-year relative survival of SCCA was 56.9% among PLWH and 66.8% among the general population. In multivariate analysis, the RER of death for SCCA 5 years postdiagnosis was affected by stage at diagnosis (distant: RER = 7.6, 95% CI, 2.36 to 24.25) but not by PLWH status (RER = 1.4, 95% CI, 0.67 to 3.01).

CONCLUSION

Our findings highlight the relevance of anal cancer screening in PLWH and HPV vaccination in both PLWH and the general population in PR, which could have an impact on the disease trend in the next few decades.

Brief Report: Recurrence of Anal High-Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesions Among Women Living With HIV

BACKGROUND

Women living with HIV (WLHIV) have a high risk of developing invasive anal cancer. Anal cancer may be prevented with early detection and treatment of anal histologic high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL). However, there are limited data on the efficacy of anal HSIL treatment in WLHIV.

STUDY DESIGN

We conducted a retrospective study of WLHIV treated for anal HSIL under high-resolution anoscopy (HRA) guidance from January 1, 2007 to December 31, 2017 with at least one post-treatment visit at an urban tertiary care hospital.

RESULTS

Forty-five WLHIV women with at least 1 follow-up evaluation after treatment for anal HSIL were identified. The median age was 46 years (range 35-66 years), 63% were African American, 27% were Hispanic/Latino, and 53% were current smokers. The mean absolute CD4 T-cell count was 516 cells/mm; 50% and 24% of the cohort had a history of cervical or vulvar HSIL respectively. The cumulative probability of anal HSIL recurrence was 29% at 12 months, 52% at 24 months, and 79% at 36 months post-treatment.

CONCLUSION

Most WLHIV treated for anal HSIL recurred within 3 years, suggesting need for continued surveillance after treatment. Our data contribute to the information needed to develop effective anal cancer prevention guidelines in WLHIV.

Electrocautery ablation of anal high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions: Effectiveness and key factors associated with outcomes

BACKGROUND

Electrocautery ablation (EA) is a common treatment modality for patients with anal high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSILs), but to the authors' knowledge its effectiveness has been understudied. The objective of the current study was to determine ablation outcomes and to identify clinicopathological factors associated with postablation disease recurrence.

METHODS

A total of 330 people living with HIV with de novo intra-anal HSIL who were treated with EA from 2009 to 2016 were studied retrospectively. Using long-term, surveillance high-resolution anoscopy biopsy data, treatment failures were classified as local recurrence (HSIL noted at the treated site at the time of surveillance) or overall recurrence (HSIL noted at treated or untreated sites). The associations between these outcomes and clinical factors were analyzed using Cox proportional hazards models.

RESULTS

Approximately 88% of participants were men who have sex with men. The median age of study  participants was 45.5 years (range, 35-51 years) and approximately 49% had multiple index HSILs (range, 2-6 index HSILs). At a median of 12.2 months postablation (range, 6.3-20.9 months postablation), approximately 45% of participants had developed local recurrence whereas 60% had developed overall recurrence. Current cigarette smoking, HIV viremia (HIV-1 RNA ≥100 copies/mL), and multiple index HSILs were found to be predictive of local recurrence. Overall recurrence was more common in current smokers and those with multiple index lesions. In multivariable models that included human papillomavirus (HPV) genotypes, baseline and persistent infections with HPV-16 and/or HPV-18 were found to be significantly associated with both local and overall recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

EA is an effective treatment modality for anal HSIL in people living with HIV, but rates of disease recurrence are substantial. Multiple index HSILs, HIV viremia, current cigarette smoking, and both baseline and persistent infection with HPV-16 and/or HPV-18 appear to negatively impact treatment success. Ongoing surveillance is imperative to capture recurrence early and improve long-term treatment outcomes.

Natural History of Anal Squamous Intraepithelial Lesions in HIV-Positive Men with Normal Baseline Cytology

The natural history of squamous intraepithelial lesions (SILs) in the anal canal of HIV-infected men is incompletely understood. We assessed the incidence and factors associated with SIL and invasive anal squamous cell carcinoma (IASCC) among HIV-infected men with normal cytology at baseline. We performed a single-center prospective cohort study [men who have sex with men (MSM) and men who have sex with women (MSW)]. The incidence of anal canal SIL (low grade and high grade) and IASCC were estimated and predictive factors analyzed. The study population comprised 297 HIV-infected men with a normal cytology result and no anal human papillomavirus (HPV)-related diseases. Of these, 251 (85%) had at least one evaluable set of cytology data during follow-up (172 MSM, 79 MSW). The median follow-up time was 4 years. The cumulative incidence of SIL was 43% (107/251): 52% in MSM (90/172) and 22% in MSW (17/79), p < 0.0001. The incidence rate of SILs was 109 (95% confidence interval = 90-132) per 1000 person-years: 142 in MSM and 49 in MSW, p < 0.0001. HPV infection, receiving antiretroviral treatment (ART), and being MSM were independently associated risk factors. The incidence of IASCC was 0.15 per 1000 person-years among MSM and 0 in MSW. HIV-infected men, both MSM and MSW, are at high risk of developing SIL despite having a normal anal cytology at baseline. The incidence of anal canal SIL was higher among MSM, but was also remarkable among MSW. Independent risk factors associated with SIL were being HIV-infected MSM at high risk for acquisition of STIs, time on ART, and HPV infection.

Serological Assessment of 18 Pathogens and Risk of AIDS-Associated Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

BACKGROUND

HIV infection is associated with increased susceptibility to common pathogens, which may trigger chronic antigenic stimulation and hyperactivation of B cells, events known to precede the development of AIDS-associated non-Hodgkin lymphoma (AIDS-NHL).

METHODS

To explore whether cumulative exposure to infectious agents contributes to AIDS-NHL risk, we tested sera from 199 AIDS-NHL patients (pre-NHL, average lead time 3.9 years) and 199 matched HIV-infected controls from the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study, for anti-IgG responses to 18 pathogens using multiplex serology. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using conditional logistic regression models.

RESULTS

We found no association between cumulative exposure to infectious agents and AIDS-NHL risk (OR 1.01, 95% CI: 0.91 to 1.12). However, seropositivity for trichodysplasia spinulosa polyomavirus (TSPyV), defined as presence of antibodies to TSPyV capsid protein VP1, was significantly associated with a 1.6-fold increase in AIDS-NHL risk (OR 1.62, 95% CI: 1.02 to 2.57). High Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) anti-VCA p18 antibody levels closer to the time of AIDS-NHL diagnosis (<4 years) were associated with a 2.6-fold increase in AIDS-NHL risk (OR 2.59, 95% CI: 1.17 to 5.74). In addition, high EBV anti-EBNA-1 and anti-ZEBRA antibody levels were associated with 2.1-fold (OR 0.47, 95% CI: 0.26 to 0.85) and 1.6-fold (OR 0.57, 95% CI: 0.35 to 0.93) decreased risk of AIDS-NHL, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results do not support the hypothesis that cumulative exposure to infectious agents contributes to AIDS-NHL development. However, the observed associations with respect to TSPyV seropositivity and EBV antigen antibody levels offer additional insights into the pathogenesis of AIDS-NHL.

Expectant Management of High-Grade Anal Dysplasia in People with HIV: Long-term Data

BACKGROUND

Both ablation and expectant management of high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions have been proposed. Expectant management would be reasonable if 1) the rate of high-grade squamous epithelial lesion progression to anal squamous cell carcinoma were low, and 2) anal squamous cell carcinoma arising under surveillance had a better prognosis than anal squamous cell carcinoma presenting without an identified precursor.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to quantify aspects of high-grade squamous epithelial lesion/anal squamous cell carcinoma clinical evolution in a surgical practice.

DESIGN

This is a retrospective cohort study.

SETTINGS

This study was performed in 1 colorectal surgeon's practice over a 20-year period.

PATIENTS

Consecutive patients with high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion and anal squamous cell carcinoma were included.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

We looked at the rate and timing of progression to anal squamous cell carcinoma, and the stage, treatment, and outcome of anal squamous cell carcinoma. We reviewed a comparison group of HIV-positive patients presenting de novo with anal squamous cell carcinoma (no prior history of high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion).

RESULTS

With consideration of only HIV-positive patients, 341 patients had a mean 5.6 years follow-up from high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion diagnosis to the most recent documented anal examination. Twenty-four of these surveillance patients developed anal squamous cell carcinoma, yielding a progression rate of 1.3% per patient-year. Mean follow-up was 7.3 years from the initial cancer diagnosis to the most recent contact. Forty-seven patients who presented de novo with anal squamous cell carcinoma developed 74 lesions, with a mean follow-up of 5.7 years after initial diagnosis. This de novo group had higher anal squamous cell carcinoma-specific mortality (3% per patient-year vs 0.05%). Our study did not show a significantly higher rate of high stage (stage III or IV) at anal squamous cell carcinoma diagnosis in the de novo group in comparison with the surveillance group (25.5% vs 8.3% (p = 0.09)).

LIMITATIONS

This study was retrospective in nature and had a predominately male population.

CONCLUSIONS

The progression of untreated high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion to anal squamous cell carcinoma approximates 1% per patient-year. Anal squamous cell carcinoma developing under surveillance tends to be of an earlier stage and to require fewer major interventions than anal squamous cell carcinoma presenting de novo. Cancer-specific mortality was lower for malignancies that developed under surveillance. We suggest that expectant management of patients with high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion is a rational strategy for preventing anal cancer morbidity. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A699.

Recent advances in the management of anal cancer

Anal cancer is a rare condition, although its incidence has been increasing over the past several decades, particularly in women. The majority of anal cancers are squamous cell cancers and are linked with human papilloma virus (HPV) infection. Recent work in HPV basic science has delineated the mechanism by which the virus leads to the development of anal cancer. With widespread availability of an HPV vaccine since 2006, vaccination has become an important strategy for anal cancer prevention. However, in the US, there remain no guidelines for anal cancer screening. Treatment of anal cancer is dictated largely by accurate staging, which is generally accomplished with a combination of physical exam, magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, and positron emission tomography. Chemoradiation remains the mainstay of treatment for most patients, with surgery reserved for salvage therapy. Recent trials have identified the optimal use of available chemotherapeutics. Exciting developments in immune therapies targeting HPV oncoproteins as well as therapeutic vaccines may soon dramatically change the way patients with anal cancer are managed.

Trends in Risks for Second Primary Cancers Associated With Index Human Papillomavirus-Associated Cancers

IMPORTANCE

In the last 4 decades, survival among patients with human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated cancers has improved, while the incidence of these cancers has increased among younger cohorts. Among survivors of HPV-associated cancers, persistent HPV infection may remain a risk factor for preventable HPV-associated second primary cancers (HPV-SPCs).

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the risk of HPV-SPCs among survivors of HPV-associated index cancers and to test the hypothesis that the HPV-SPC risk among these persons has increased over the last 4 decades.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

A retrospective cohort study of 9 cancer registries of the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database was conducted to identify patients with HPV-associated (cervical, vaginal, vulvar, oropharyngeal, anal, and penile) cancers diagnosed from January 1, 1973, through December 31, 2014. The dates of analysis were July 1, 2017, to January 31, 2018.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The HPV-SPC risk was quantified by calculating standard incidence ratios (SIRs) and excess absolute risks (EARs) per 10 000 person-years at risk (PYR). The HPV-SPC risk by time was estimated using Poisson regression.

RESULTS

From 113 272 (73 085 female and 40 187 male) survivors of HPV-associated cancers, 1397 women and 1098 men developed HPV-SPCs. The SIRs for HPV-SPCs were 6.2 (95% CI, 5.9-6.6) among women and 15.8 (95% CI, 14.9-16.8) among men. The EARs were 18.2 per 10 000 PYR for women and 53.5 per 10 000 PYR for men. Among both women and men, those who had index oropharyngeal cancers had the highest HPV-SPC risk (SIR, 19.8 [95% CI, 18.4-21.4] and EAR, 80.6 per 10 000 PYR among women; SIR, 18.0 [95% CI, 16.9-19.1] and EAR, 61.5 per 10 000 PYR among men). Women who had index cervical cancers and men who had index anal cancers had the lowest HPV-SPC risk (SIR, 2.4 [95% CI, 2.2-2.7] and EAR, 4.5 per 10 000 PYR among women; SIR, 6.5 [95% CI, 4.7-8.8] and EAR, 18.5 per 10 000 PYR among men). Both women and men who had index HPV-associated cancers of any kind had a significantly higher risk of oropharyngeal HPV-SPCs. Over the last 4 decades, the risk of developing most types of HPV-SPCs after index cervical, vaginal, and vulvar cancers increased.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

According to this study, the HPV-SPC risk among survivors of HPV-associated cancers is significant, implying that persistent HPV infection at multiple sites may be associated with HPV-SPCs. These findings have the potential to inform surveillance recommendations for survivors of HPV-associated cancers.

The Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenge of Anal Intraepithelial Neoplasia

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

No single modality of care serves as the defined best practice for the treatment of anal intraepithelial neoplasia (AIN). This review aims to present the common treatment modalities germane to AIN while considering evolving evidence.

RECENT FINDINGS

AIN affords an opportunity to evaluate and treat patients before the development of invasive diseases. Efforts to screen for AIN have yielded mixed results. The major available pharmacotheraputic and surgical options offer efficacious options to reduce the bioburden of disease but can be met with high levels of recurrent disease. None affords a predictably durable response in severe disease. Vaccination as primary prevention will likely reduce the overall upward trend in AIN. Evidence suggests vaccination also affords improvement in recurrent disease. Early evidence reveals potential benefit in multimodal approaches to control AIN. Valuable data is anticipated from the phase III, randomized ANCHOR study evaluating the management of high-grade AIN in HIV +patients.

From clinical epidemiology to practice recommendations: Knowledge gaps and uncertainty in the management of anal precancers

We discuss the existing data on anal precancers and demonstrate the impact of evidence gaps and uncertainty on a clinical decision model developed to provide clinical guidance for management of anal precancers.

Adjuvant HPV vaccination for anal cancer prevention in HIV-positive men who have sex with men: The time is now

IMPORTANCE

Outcomes of treating high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL), a precursor to anal cancer, remain uncertain. Emerging evidence shows that post HSIL treatment adjuvant quadrivalent human papillomavirus (qHPV) vaccination improves the effectiveness of treatment. However, no recommendations exist regarding the use of qHPV vaccine as an adjuvant form of therapy. Our objective was to determine whether post-treatment adjuvant vaccination should be adopted in HIV-infected MSM (individuals at highest risk for anal cancer) on the basis of cost-effectiveness determined using existing evidence or whether future research is needed.

METHODS

We developed a Markov (state-transition) cohort model to assess the cost-effectiveness of post-treatment adjuvant HPV vaccination of 27years or older HIV-infected MSM. We first estimated cost-effectiveness and then performed value-of-information (VOI) analysis to determine whether future research is required by estimating the expected value of perfect information (EVPI). We also estimated expected value of partial perfect information (EVPPI) to determine what new evidences should have highest priority.

RESULTS

With the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of $71,937/QALY, "treatment plus vaccination" was the most cost-effective HSIL management strategy using the willingness-to-pay threshold of 100,000/QALY. We found that population-level EVPI for conducting future clinical research evaluating HSIL management approaches was US$12 million (range $6-$20 million). The EVPPI associated with adjuvant qHPV vaccination efficacy estimated in terms of hazards of decreasing HSIL recurrence was $0 implying that additional data from a future study evaluating efficacy of adjuvant qHPV vaccination will not change our policy conclusion that "treatment plus vaccination" was cost-effective. Both the ICER and EVPI were sensitive to HSIL treatment compliance.

CONCLUSION

Post-treatment adjuvant qHPV vaccination in HIV-infected MSM aged 27 or above is likely to be cost-effective. Use of adjuvant qHPV vaccination could be considered as a potential strategy to reduce rising anal cancer burden among these high-risk individuals.