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Bearden DR, Mwanza-Kabaghe S, Bositis CM, Dallah I, Johnson BA, Siddiqi OK, Elafros MA, Gelbard HA, Okulicz JF, Kalungwana L, Musonda N, Theodore WH, Mwenechanya M, Mathews M, Sikazwe IT, Birbeck GL. Early Initiation of Antiretroviral Therapy is Protective Against Seizures in Children With HIV in Zambia: A Prospective Case-Control Study. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2024; 95:291-296. [PMID: 38032746 PMCID: PMC10922319 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Seizures are relatively common among children with HIV in low- and middle-income countries and are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Early treatment with antiretroviral therapy (ART) may reduce this risk by decreasing rates of central nervous system infections and HIV encephalopathy. METHODS We conducted a prospective, unmatched case-control study. We enrolled children with new-onset seizure from University Teaching Hospital in Lusaka, Zambia and 2 regional hospitals in rural Zambia. Controls were children with HIV and no history of seizures. Recruitment took place from 2016 to 2019. Early treatment was defined as initiation of ART before 12 months of age, at a CD4 percentage >15% in children aged 12-60 months or a CD4 count >350 cells/mm 3 for children aged 60 months or older. Logistic regression models were used to evaluate the association between potential risk factors and seizures. RESULTS We identified 73 children with new-onset seizure and compared them with 254 control children with HIV but no seizures. Early treatment with ART was associated with a significant reduction in the odds of seizures [odds ratio (OR) 0.04, 95% confidence interval: 0.02 to 0.09; P < 0.001]. Having an undetectable viral load at the time of enrollment was strongly protective against seizures (OR 0.03, P < 0.001), whereas history of World Health Organization Stage 4 disease (OR 2.2, P = 0.05) or CD4 count <200 cells/mm 3 (OR 3.6, P < 0.001) increased risk of seizures. CONCLUSIONS Early initiation of ART and successful viral suppression would likely reduce much of the excess seizure burden in children with HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- David R Bearden
- Department of Neurology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY
- University of Zambia School of Medicine, Lusaka, Zambia
- Department of Educational Psychology, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | | | | | - Ifunanya Dallah
- University of Rochester, Center for Health and Technology, Rochester, NY
| | - Brent A Johnson
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY
| | - Omar K Siddiqi
- Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Global Neurology Program, Boston, MA
- University of Zambia, University Teaching Hospitals, Lusaka, Zambia
| | | | | | - Jason F Okulicz
- San Antonio Military Medical Center, Infectious Diseases Service, HIV Medical Evaluation Unit, San Antonio, TX
| | - Lisa Kalungwana
- Department of Psychology, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Nkhoma Musonda
- Department of Neurology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY
- University of Rochester, Center for Health and Technology, Rochester, NY
| | | | | | - Manoj Mathews
- University of Zambia, University Teaching Hospitals, Lusaka, Zambia
| | | | - Gretchen L Birbeck
- Department of Neurology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY
- University of Zambia School of Medicine, Lusaka, Zambia
- University of Rochester, Center for Health and Technology, Rochester, NY
- University of Zambia, University Teaching Hospitals, Lusaka, Zambia
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2
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Zulu G, Stelzle D, Mwape KE, Welte TM, Strømme H, Mubanga C, Mutale W, Abraham A, Hachangu A, Schmidt V, Sikasunge CS, Phiri IK, Winkler AS. The epidemiology of human Taenia solium infections: A systematic review of the distribution in Eastern and Southern Africa. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2023; 17:e0011042. [PMID: 37000841 PMCID: PMC10096517 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Taenia solium is a tapeworm that causes taeniosis in humans and cysticercosis in humans and pigs. Within Eastern and Southern Africa (ESA), information on the presence of human taeniosis and cysticercosis seems scarce. This systematic review aimed to describe the current information available and gaps in the epidemiology of human T. solium infections in ESA. METHODS/PRINCIPLE FINDINGS Scientific literature published between 1st January 2000 and 20th June 2022 in international databases [MEDLINE (Ovid), Embase (Ovid), Global Health (Ovid), Scopus (Elsevier), African Index Medicus (via WHO Global Index Medicus), and Open Grey] was systematically reviewed for ESA. The study area included 27 countries that make up the ESA region. Information on either taeniosis, cysticercosis or NCC was available for 16 of 27 countries within the region and a total of 113 reports were retained for the review. Most case reports for cysticercosis and NCC were from South Africa, while Tanzania had the most aggregated cysticercosis reports. Eleven countries reported on NCC with seven countries reporting data on NCC and epilepsy. Unconfirmed human T. solium taeniosis cases were reported in nine countries while two countries (Madagascar and Zambia) reported confirmed T. solium cases. The cysticercosis seroprevalence ranged between 0.7-40.8% on antigen (Ag) ELISA and between 13.1-45.3% on antibody (Ab) ELISA. Based on immunoblot tests the Ab seroprevalence was between 1.7-39.3%, while the proportion of NCC-suggestive lesions on brain CT scans was between 1.0-76% depending on the study population. The human taeniosis prevalence based on microscopy ranged between 0.1-14.7%. Based on Copro Ag-ELISA studies conducted in Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Zambia, the highest prevalence of 19.7% was reported in Kenya. CONCLUSIONS Despite the public health and economic impact of T. solium in ESA, there are still large gaps in knowledge about the occurrence of the parasite, and the resulting One Health disease complex, and monitoring of T. solium taeniosis and cysticercosis is mostly not in place.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gideon Zulu
- Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
- Ministry of Health, Government of the Republic of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Dominik Stelzle
- Center for Global Health, Department of Neurology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Kabemba E. Mwape
- Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Tamara M. Welte
- Center for Global Health, Department of Neurology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
- Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Hilde Strømme
- University Library, Medical Library, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Chishimba Mubanga
- Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Wilbroad Mutale
- School of Public Health, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Annette Abraham
- Center for Global Health, Department of Neurology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Alex Hachangu
- Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Veronika Schmidt
- Center for Global Health, Department of Neurology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Chummy S. Sikasunge
- Department of Para-clinical studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Isaac K. Phiri
- Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Andrea S. Winkler
- Center for Global Health, Department of Neurology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
- Centre for Global Health, Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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3
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Patil G, Mbewe EG, Kabundula PP, Smith H, Mwanza-Kabaghe S, Buda A, Adams HR, Potchen MJ, Mweemba M, Johnson BA, Schifitto G, Gelbard H, Birbeck GL, Bearden DR. Longitudinal Cognitive Outcomes in Children With HIV in Zambia: 2-Year Outcomes From the HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Disorders in Zambia (HANDZ) Study. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2022; 91:217-225. [PMID: 36094489 PMCID: PMC9480865 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe longitudinal outcomes and predictors of cognitive outcomes in children with HIV in Zambia. BACKGROUND Multiple studies have shown that children with HIV are at risk for impaired cognition. However, there are limited data on longitudinal cognitive outcomes in children with HIV. METHODS We conducted a prospective cohort study of 208 perinatally infected children with HIV ages 8-17 years, all treated with antiretroviral therapy, and 208 HIV-exposed uninfected controls. Participants were followed for 2 years. Cognition was assessed with a custom NIH Toolbox Cognition Battery, and tests were combined to generate a Summary Cognition Score (SCS). The contribution of potential risk factors to outcomes was explored using regression models and group-based trajectory modeling. RESULTS HIV was strongly associated with lower SCS at baseline [β-14, 95% confidence interval (CI): -20 to -7, P < 0.001]. Change scores over time were similar between groups, but poorer average performance in children with HIV persisted at the 2-year follow-up visit (adjusted β = -11, 95% CI: -22 to -0.3, P = 0.04). Other than HIV, the strongest predictors of baseline SCS included socioeconomic status index (β =3, 95% CI: 1, 5, P = 0.004), history of growth stunting (β=-14, 95% CI: -23 to -6, P = 0.001), history of CD4 count below 200 (β = -19, 95% CI: -35 to -2, P = 0.02), and history of World Health Organization stage 4 disease (β = -10, 95% CI: -19 to -0.2, P = 0.04). In the group-based trajectory model, HIV+ status predicted membership in the lowest performing trajectory group (odds ratio 2.5, 95% CI: 1.2 to 5.1, P = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Children with HIV are at risk of poor cognitive outcomes, despite chronic treatment with antiretroviral therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gauri Patil
- University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, Rochester, NY
| | - Esau G Mbewe
- Department of Educational Psychology, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | | | - Hannah Smith
- University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, Rochester, NY
| | | | - Alexandra Buda
- University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, Rochester, NY
| | - Heather R Adams
- Division of Child Neurology, Department of Neurology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY
| | - Michael J Potchen
- Department of Imaging Sciences, University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, Rochester, NY
- Lusaka Apex Medical University, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Milimo Mweemba
- University Teaching Hospital, Neurology Research Office, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Brent A Johnson
- Department of Biostatistics and Computational Biology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY
| | - Giovanni Schifitto
- Department of Imaging Sciences, University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, Rochester, NY
- Department of Neurology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY
| | - Handy Gelbard
- Division of Child Neurology, Department of Neurology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY
| | - Gretchen L Birbeck
- University Teaching Hospital, Neurology Research Office, Lusaka, Zambia
- University of Zambia School of Medicine, Lusaka, Zambia; and
- Division of Epilepsy, Department of Neurology, Rochester, NY
| | - David R Bearden
- Department of Educational Psychology, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
- Division of Child Neurology, Department of Neurology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY
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4
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Kabundula PP, Mbewe EG, Mwanza-Kabaghe S, Birbeck GL, Mweemba M, Wang B, Menon JA, Bearden DR, Adams HR. Validation of the National Institute of Health Toolbox Cognition Battery (NIHTB-CB) in Children and Adolescents with and without HIV Infection in Lusaka, Zambia. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:3436-3449. [PMID: 35445991 PMCID: PMC10310430 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03669-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to validate the NIH Toolbox Cognition Battery (NIHTB-CB) in Zambian children with and without HIV-infection. Children living with HIV and HIV-exposed, uninfected (HEU) children completed traditional neuropsychological and NIHTB-CB tasks. Using pairwise correlation and a linear regression model we measured associations between traditional measure composite scores and parental ratings of children's abilities, and NIHTB-CB scores. A Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve was developed to identify participants with impairment. 389 children, 8-17 years old participated. NIHTB-CB and traditional measures converged well as a whole and when comparing analogous individual tests across the two batteries. The NIHTB-CB composite score discriminated between the groups and was positively associated with external criteria for cognitive function: parental ratings of intelligence and school performance. Some English vocabulary and/or an unfamiliar cultural context presented challenges. NIHTB-CB was associated with children's everyday cognitive abilities, though future use may require linguistic and cultural adaptation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Esau G Mbewe
- Department of Educational Psychology, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Sylvia Mwanza-Kabaghe
- Department of Educational Psychology, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
- University Teaching Hospital, Neurology Research Office, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Gretchen L Birbeck
- University Teaching Hospital, Neurology Research Office, Lusaka, Zambia
- University of Zambia School of Medicine, Lusaka, Zambia
- Division of Epilepsy, University of Rochester Medical Center Department of Neurology, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Milimo Mweemba
- Department of Educational Psychology, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Bo Wang
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Massachusetts, USA
| | - J Anitha Menon
- Department of Psychology, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - David R Bearden
- Division of Child Neurology, University of Rochester Medical Center Department of Neurology, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Heather R Adams
- Division of Child Neurology, University of Rochester Medical Center Department of Neurology, Rochester, NY, USA.
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5
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Ravishankar M, Dallah I, Mathews M, Bositis CM, Mwenechanya M, Kalungwana‐Mambwe L, Bearden D, Navis A, Elafros MA, Gelbard H, Theodore WH, Koralnik IJ, Okulicz JF, Johnson BA, Belessiotis C, Ciccone O, Thornton N, Tsuboyama M, Siddiqi OK, Potchen MJ, Sikazwe I, Birbeck GL. Clinical characteristics and outcomes after new-onset seizure among Zambian children with HIV during the antiretroviral therapy era. Epilepsia Open 2022; 7:315-324. [PMID: 35305291 PMCID: PMC9159241 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study describes clinical profiles including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) disease history and seizure etiology among children living with HIV presenting with new-onset seizure during the era of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Zambia. 30-day mortality and cause of death are also reported. METHODS Children living with HIV (CLWHIV) with new-onset seizures were prospectively evaluated at one large urban teaching hospital and two non-urban healthcare facilities. Interviews with family members, review of medical records, and where needed, verbal autopsies were undertaken. Two clinicians who were not responsible for the patients' care independently reviewed all records and assigned seizure etiology and cause of death with adjudication as needed. RESULTS From April 2016 to June 2019, 73 children (49 urban, 24 rural) were identified. Median age was 6 years (IQR 2.2-10.0) and 39 (53%) were male children. Seizures were focal in 36 (49%) and were often severe, with 37% presenting with multiple recurrent seizures in the 24 hours before admission or in status epilepticus. Although 36 (49%) were on ART at enrollment, only 7 of 36 (19%) were virally suppressed. Seizure etiologies were infectious in over half (54%), with HIV encephalitis, bacterial meningitis, and tuberculous meningitis being the most common. Metabolic causes (19%) included renal failure and hypoglycemia. Structural lesions identified on imaging accounted for 10% of etiologies and included stroke and non-accidental trauma. No etiology could be identified in 12 (16%) children, most of whom died before the completion of clinical investigations. Twenty-two (30%) children died within 30 days of the index seizure. SIGNIFICANCE Despite widespread ART roll out in Zambia, new-onset seizure in CLWHIV occurs in the setting of advanced, active HIV disease. Seizure severity/burden is high as is early mortality. Enhanced programs to assure early ART initiation, improve adherence, and address ART failure are needed to reduce the burden of neurological injury and premature death in CLWHIV.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ifunanya Dallah
- Center for Health + TechnologyUniversity of Rochester Medical CenterRochesterNew YorkUSA
| | - Manoj Mathews
- University Teaching Hospitals Children's HospitalLusakaZambia
| | | | | | | | - David Bearden
- University of Rochester Medical CenterRochesterNew YorkUSA
| | | | | | - Harris Gelbard
- University of Rochester Medical CenterRochesterNew YorkUSA
| | | | - Igor J. Koralnik
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of MedicineChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | | | | | | | - Ornella Ciccone
- University Teaching Hospitals Children's HospitalLusakaZambia
- University of ZambiaLusakaZambia
| | | | | | | | - Michael J. Potchen
- University of Rochester Medical CenterRochesterNew YorkUSA
- Zambian College of Medicine & SurgeryLusakaZambia
| | | | - Gretchen L. Birbeck
- University Teaching Hospitals Children's HospitalLusakaZambia
- Epilepsy DivisionDepartment of NeurologyUniversity of RochesterRochesterNew YorkUSA
- Epilepsy Care TeamChikankata HospitalMazabukaZambia
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6
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Mbewe EG, Kabundula PP, Mwanza-Kabaghe S, Buda A, Adams HR, Schneider C, Potchen MJ, Mweemba M, Mathews M, Menon JA, Wang B, Baseler T, Paciorkowski A, Birbeck GL, Bearden DR. Socioeconomic Status and Cognitive Function in Children With HIV: Evidence From the HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Disorders in Zambia (HANDZ) Study. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2022; 89:56-63. [PMID: 34878435 PMCID: PMC8794014 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple previous studies have identified a detrimental effect of pediatric HIV on cognitive function. Socioeconomic status (SES) is one of the strongest predictors of cognitive performance and may affect the relationship between HIV and cognition. METHODS As part of the ongoing HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Disorders in Zambia (HANDZ) study, a prospective cohort study, we recruited 208 participants with HIV and 208 HIV-exposed uninfected controls, all aged 8-17 years. A standardized questionnaire was administered to assess SES, and all participants had comprehensive neuropsychological testing. An NPZ8 score was derived as a summary measure of cognitive function. Logistic regression and linear regression were used to model the relationship between SES and cognitive function, and mediation analysis was used to identify specific pathways by which SES may affect cognition. RESULTS Children with HIV performed significantly worse on a composite measure of cognitive function (NPZ8 score -0.19 vs. 0.22, P < 0.001) and were more likely to have cognitive impairment (33% vs. 19%, P = 0.001). Higher SES was associated with reduced risk of cognitive impairment (odds ratio 0.8, 95% confidence interval: 0.75-0.92, P < 0.001) in both groups, with similar effects in children with HIV and HIV-exposed uninfected groups. SES was more strongly correlated with NPZ8 score in children with HIV than in uninfected controls (Pearson's R 0.39 vs. 0.28), but predicted NPZ8 in both groups. Mediation analysis suggested that the effect of SES on cognition was most strongly mediated through malnutrition. CONCLUSIONS Cognitive function is strongly correlated with SES in children with HIV, suggesting a synergistic effect of HIV and poverty on cognitive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esau G Mbewe
- Department of Educational Psychology, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | | | | | - Alexandra Buda
- University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY
| | - Heather R Adams
- University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY
- Division of Child Neurology, Department of Neurology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY
| | - Colleen Schneider
- University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY
| | - Michael J Potchen
- Department of Imaging Sciences, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY
- Lusaka Apex Medical University, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Milimo Mweemba
- University Teaching Hospital, Neurology Research Office, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Manoj Mathews
- University Teaching Hospital, Neurology Research Office, Lusaka, Zambia
- University Teaching Hospital Children's Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
- Directorate of Clinical Care and Diagnostics Services, Ministry of Health, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - J Anitha Menon
- Department of Psychology, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Bo Wang
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA
| | - Travis Baseler
- Department of Economics, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY
| | - Alex Paciorkowski
- Division of Child Neurology, Department of Neurology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY
| | - Gretchen L Birbeck
- University Teaching Hospital, Neurology Research Office, Lusaka, Zambia
- University of Zambia School of Medicine, Lusaka, Zambia ; and
- Division of Epilepsy, Department of Neurology, Rochester, NY
| | - David R Bearden
- University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY
- Division of Child Neurology, Department of Neurology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY
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7
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Buda A, Dean O, Adams HR, Mwanza-Kabaghe S, Potchen MJ, Mbewe EG, Kabundula PP, Mweemba M, Matoka B, Mathews M, Menon JA, Wang B, Birbeck GL, Bearden DR. Neighborhood-Based Socioeconomic Determinants of Cognitive Impairment in Zambian Children With HIV: A Quantitative Geographic Information Systems Approach. J Pediatric Infect Dis Soc 2021; 10:1071-1079. [PMID: 34437702 PMCID: PMC8719623 DOI: 10.1093/jpids/piab076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Place-based inequalities, such as exposure to violence and access to nutritious food and clean water, may contribute to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-associated cognitive impairment. In this study, we investigated neighborhood effects on cognition in children and adolescents with HIV in Lusaka, Zambia. METHODS We conducted a prospective cohort study of 208 children with perinatally acquired HIV (ages 8-17) and 208 HIV-exposed uninfected controls. Participants underwent neuropsychological testing and interviews assessing socioeconomic status. Geographic regions with clusters of participants with HIV and cognitive impairment were identified using quantitative geographic information systems (QGIS) and SaTScan. Associations between location of residence and cognitive function were evaluated in bivariable and multivariable regression models. Mediation analysis was performed to assess direct and indirect effects of location of the residence on cognitive impairment. RESULTS Residence in Chawama, one of the poorest neighborhoods in Lusaka, was significantly associated with cognitive impairment in participants with HIV (odds ratio 2.9; P = .005) and remained significant in a multivariable regression model controlling for potential confounders. Mediation analysis found that 46% of the cognitive effects of residence in Chawama were explained by higher rates of malnutrition, lower school attendance, and poorer self-reported health. CONCLUSIONS Place-based socioeconomic inequality contributes to cognitive impairment in Zambian children and adolescents with HIV. Neighborhood effects may be mediated by concentrated poverty, malnutrition, limited access to education and health care, and other yet unknown environmental factors that may be potentially modifiable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Buda
- University of Rochester School of Medicine, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Owen Dean
- University of Rochester School of Medicine, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Heather R Adams
- University of Rochester School of Medicine, Rochester, New York, USA,Department of Neurology, Division of Child Neurology, University of Rochester School of Medicine, Rochester, New York, USA
| | | | - Michael J Potchen
- Department of Imaging Sciences, University of Rochester School of Medicine, Rochester, New York, USA,Lusaka Apex Medical University, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Esau G Mbewe
- Department of Educational Psychology, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | | | - Milimo Mweemba
- Neurology Research Office, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Beauty Matoka
- Neurology Research Office, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Manoj Mathews
- University of Zambia School of Medicine, Lusaka, Zambia,University Teaching Hospital Children’s Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia,Directorate of Clinical Care & Diagnostics Services, Ministry of Health, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - J Anitha Menon
- Department of Psychology, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Bo Wang
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, US
| | - Gretchen L Birbeck
- Neurology Research Office, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia,University of Zambia School of Medicine, Lusaka, Zambia,Department of Neurology, Division of Epilepsy, University of Rochester School of Medicine, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - David R Bearden
- Department of Neurology, Division of Child Neurology, University of Rochester School of Medicine, Rochester, New York, USA,Department of Educational Psychology, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia,Corresponding Author: David R. Bearden, MD, MSCE, Department of Neurology, Division of Child Neurology, University of Rochester School of Medicine, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Box 631, Rochester, New York, NY 14642, USA. E-mail:
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8
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Noormahomed EV, Nhancupe N, Mufume J, Schooley RT, Foyaca-Sibat H, Benson CA. Neurocysticercosis in Epileptic Children: An Overlooked Condition in Mozambique, Challenges in Diagnosis, Management and Research Priorities. EC MICROBIOLOGY 2021; 17:49-56. [PMID: 37441580 PMCID: PMC10338043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Previous studies suggest that neurocysticercosis (NCC), the most common cause of acute symptomatic seizures (ASS), epilepsy and other neuropsychiatric disorders, typically presents with a solitary lesion and focal seizures in children from places where cysticercosis is endemic. We report a series of 3 patients, aged 7 to 11 years, with a history of epilepsy and or recurrent headache referred from Mocuba to the Quaternary Central Hospital in Quelimane, Zambeze Province, Mozambique, an area endemic for cysticercosis. Clinical history and examination, blood chemistry and hemogram screening, serological testing for Cysticercus antigens and antibodies detection, and a computerized tomography (CT) scan, were performed. NCC was confirmed in all 3 patients, based on criteria defined by Del Bruto. Two confirmed cases tested positive for antigen (Ag) by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) with CT lesions in different stages of parasite evolution. Headache/encephalopathy was present in all patients. This case series of children with epilepsy confirms for the first time the presence of NCC in children from Zambezia province, an east-central region of Mozambique. Further, NCC should be included in the differential diagnosis of children with ASS, epilepsy and other neuropsychiatric disorders. Future studies should be targeted to the identification of biomarkers to support the diagnosis of NCC, given the limited availability of imaging tools and limited value of serological assays for the diagnosis and management of NCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilia Virgínia Noormahomed
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Eduardo Mondlane University, Maputo, Mozambique
- Department of Medicine, Infectious Disease Division, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
- Mozambique Institute for Health Education and Research (MIHER), Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Noémia Nhancupe
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Eduardo Mondlane University, Maputo, Mozambique
- Mozambique Institute for Health Education and Research (MIHER), Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Jerónimo Mufume
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Eduardo Mondlane University, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Robert T Schooley
- Department of Medicine, Infectious Disease Division, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Humberto Foyaca-Sibat
- Department of Neurology, Nelson Mandela Academic Central Hospital, Walter Sisulu University, South Africa
| | - Constance A Benson
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California, San Diego, California USA
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Cerebrovascular Disease in Children Perinatally Infected With Human Immunodeficiency Virus in Zambia. Pediatr Neurol 2020; 112:14-21. [PMID: 32871411 PMCID: PMC7554106 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2020.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND High rates of cerebrovascular disease (CVD) have previously been described in pediatric human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). However, little is known about pediatric CVD in the era of antiretroviral therapy or about the contribution of CVD to HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders. METHODS We completed a neuroimaging substudy of the HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Disorders in Zambia study, a prospective cohort study of neurocognitive complications of pediatric HIV. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (1.5 T) was acquired for 34 HIV+ children on antiretroviral therapy and 17 HIV-exposed uninfected children (aged eight to 17 years). Demographics, medical history, neurological examination, and neuropsychologic testing results were collected. Two neuroradiologists, unaware of HIV status and clinical course, read the scans. RESULTS CVD was identified in seven of 34 children with HIV (HIV+ CVD+) and no HIV-exposed uninfected children (21% vs 0%, P = 0.05). Three participants had white matter changes suggestive of small vessel disease, four had infarcts, and two had evidence of intracranial artery stenosis. Age of antiretroviral therapy initiation and exposure to protease inhibitors or efavirenz was not significantly different between children with and without CVD. HIV+ CVD+ children had significantly worse scores on a summary measure of cognition than the HIV+ CVD- group (NPZ8 score -0.57 vs 0.33, P = 0.04). CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates high rates of CVD in children with HIV despite antiretroviral therapy, and worse cognitive performance in children with CVD. Longitudinal studies are necessary to determine the mechanisms and incidence of new-onset CVD in children with HIV.
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Dean O, Buda A, Adams HR, Mwanza-Kabaghe S, Potchen MJ, Mbewe EG, Kabundula PP, Moghaddam SM, Birbeck GL, Bearden DR. Brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging Findings Associated With Cognitive Impairment in Children and Adolescents With Human Immunodeficiency Virus in Zambia. Pediatr Neurol 2020; 102:28-35. [PMID: 31604645 PMCID: PMC7924094 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2019.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2019] [Revised: 08/24/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cognitive impairment is common in children and adolescents with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a potentially useful tool to investigate the pathophysiology of HIV-associated cognitive impairment and may serve as a biomarker in future clinical trials. There are few published data on brain imaging in children with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa. METHODS Thirty-four perinatally infected subjects with HIV and age-matched HIV-exposed uninfected controls between the ages nine and 17 years were recruited from the Pediatric Center of Excellence in Lusaka, Zambia, as part of the HIV-associated Neurocognitive Disorders in Zambia study. Brain MRI sequences were acquired, and clinical and volumetric assessments were performed. Subjects underwent a comprehensive neuropsychologic battery, and cognitive impairment status was classified using a global deficit score approach. Regression models were used to evaluate relationships between MRI findings and cognitive function. RESULTS We identified cerebrovascular disease in seven of 34 subjects with HIV compared with zero of 17 controls (21% vs 0%, P = 0.04). We also identified decreased total brain volumes (1036 vs 1162 cm3, P = 0.03) and decreased cortical thickness in the right temporal lobes (3.12 vs 3.29 mm; P = 0.01) and right fusiform gyri (3.10 vs 3.25 mm; P = 0.02) of HIV-infected subjects with cognitive impairment. CONCLUSIONS These findings support the hypothesis that brain volumes may be useful biomarkers for cognitive outcomes in children with HIV. Further studies are necessary to investigate mechanisms of cerebrovascular disease and volume loss in children with HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Owen Dean
- University of Rochester School of Medicine, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Alexandra Buda
- University of Rochester School of Medicine, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Heather R. Adams
- Division of Child Neurology, Department of Neurology, University of Rochester School of Medicine, Rochester, New York, USA
| | | | - Michael J. Potchen
- Department of Radiology, University of Rochester School of Medicine, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Esau G. Mbewe
- Department of Psychology, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | | | | | - Gretchen L. Birbeck
- Division of Epilepsy, Department of Neurology, Rochester, New York, USA,University of Zambia School of Medicine, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - David R. Bearden
- Division of Child Neurology, Department of Neurology, University of Rochester School of Medicine, Rochester, New York, USA
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