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Specht CA, Wang R, Oliveira LVN, Hester MM, Gomez C, Mou Z, Carlson D, Lee CK, Hole CR, Lam WC, Upadhya R, Lodge JK, Levitz SM. Immunological correlates of protection mediated by a whole organism, Cryptococcus neoformans, vaccine deficient in chitosan. mBio 2024:e0174624. [PMID: 38980038 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01746-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The global burden of infections due to the pathogenic fungus Cryptococcus is substantial in persons with low CD4+ T-cell counts. Previously, we deleted three chitin deacetylase genes from Cryptococcus neoformans to create a chitosan-deficient, avirulent strain, designated as cda1∆2∆3∆, which, when used as a vaccine, protected mice from challenge with virulent C. neoformans strain KN99. Here, we explored the immunological basis for protection. Vaccine-mediated protection was maintained in mice lacking B cells or CD8+ T cells. In contrast, protection was lost in mice lacking α/β T cells or CD4+ T cells. Moreover, CD4+ T cells from vaccinated mice conferred protection upon adoptive transfer to naive mice. Importantly, while monoclonal antibody-mediated depletion of CD4+ T cells just prior to vaccination resulted in complete loss of protection, significant protection was retained in mice depleted of CD4+ T cells after vaccination but prior to challenge. Vaccine-mediated protection was lost in mice genetically deficient in interferon-γ (IFNγ), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), or interleukin (IL)-23p19. A robust influx of leukocytes and IFNγ- and TNFα-expressing CD4+ T cells was seen in the lungs of vaccinated and challenged mice. Finally, a higher level of IFNγ production by lung cells stimulated ex vivo correlated with lower fungal burden in the lungs. Thus, while B cells and CD8+ T cells are dispensable, IFNγ and CD4+ T cells have overlapping roles in generating protective immunity prior to cda1∆2∆3∆ vaccination. However, once vaccinated, protection becomes less dependent on CD4+ T cells, suggesting a strategy for vaccinating HIV+ persons prior to loss of CD4+ T cells. IMPORTANCE The fungus Cryptococcus neoformans is responsible for >100,000 deaths annually, mostly in persons with impaired CD4+ T-cell function such as AIDS. There are no approved human vaccines. We previously created a genetically engineered avirulent strain of C. neoformans, designated as cda1∆2∆3∆. When used as a vaccine, cda1∆2∆3∆ protects mice against a subsequent challenge with a virulent C. neoformans strain. Here, we defined components of the immune system responsible for vaccine-mediated protection. We found that while B cells and CD8+ T cells were dispensible, protection was lost in mice genetically deficient in CD4+ T cells and the cytokines IFNγ, TNFα, or IL-23. A robust influx of cytokine-producing CD4+ T cells was seen in the lungs of vaccinated mice following infection. Importantly, protection was retained in mice depleted of CD4+ T cells following vaccination, suggesting a strategy to protect persons who are at risk of future CD4+ T-cell dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles A Specht
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ruiying Wang
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lorena V N Oliveira
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Maureen M Hester
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Christina Gomez
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Zhongming Mou
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Diana Carlson
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Chrono K Lee
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Camaron R Hole
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Woei C Lam
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Rajendra Upadhya
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Jennifer K Lodge
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Stuart M Levitz
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
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Specht CA, Wang R, Oliveira LVN, Hester MM, Gomez C, Mou Z, Carlson D, Lee CK, Hole CR, Lam WC, Upadhya R, Lodge JK, Levitz SM. Immunological correlates of protection mediated by a whole organism Cryptococcus neoformans vaccine deficient in chitosan. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.12.598760. [PMID: 38915489 PMCID: PMC11195286 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.12.598760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
The global burden of infections due to the pathogenic fungus Cryptococcus is substantial in persons with low CD4 + T cell counts. Previously, we deleted three chitin deacetylase genes from C. neoformans to create a chitosan-deficient, avirulent strain, designated cda1Δ2Δ3Δ which, when used as a vaccine, protected mice from challenge with virulent C. neoformans strain KN99. Here, we explored the immunological basis for protection. Vaccine-mediated protection was maintained in mice lacking B cells or CD8 + T cells. In contrast, protection was lost in mice lacking α/β T cells or CD4 + T cells. Moreover, CD4 + T cells from vaccinated mice conferred protection upon adoptive transfer to naive mice. Importantly, while monoclonal antibody-mediated depletion of CD4 + T cells just prior to vaccination resulted in complete loss of protection, significant protection was retained in mice depleted of CD4 + T cells after vaccination, but prior to challenge. Vaccine-mediated protection was lost in mice genetically deficient in IFNγ, TNFα, or IL-23p19. A robust influx of leukocytes and IFNγ- and TNFα-expressing CD4 + T cells was seen in the lungs of vaccinated and challenged mice. Finally, a higher level of IFNγ production by lung cells stimulated ex vivo correlated with lower fungal burden in the lungs. Thus, while B cells and CD8 + T cells are dispensable, IFNγ and CD4 + T cells have overlapping roles in generating protective immunity prior to cda1Δ2Δ3Δ vaccination. However, once vaccinated, protection becomes less dependent on CD4 + T cells, suggesting a strategy for vaccinating HIV + persons prior to loss of CD4 + T cells. Importance The fungus Cryptococcus neoformans is responsible for >100,000 deaths annually, mostly in persons with impaired CD4 + T cell function such as AIDS. There are no approved human vaccines. We previously created a genetically engineered avirulent strain of C. neoformans , designated cda1Δ2Δ3Δ . When used as a vaccine, cda1Δ2Δ3Δ protects mice against a subsequent challenge with a virulent C. neoformans strain. Here, we defined components of the immune system responsible for vaccine-mediated protection. We found that while B cells and CD8 + T cells were dispensible, protection was lost in mice genetically deficient in CD4 + T cells, and the cytokines IFNγ, TNFα, or IL-23. A robust influx of cytokine-producing CD4 + T cells was seen in the lungs of vaccinated mice following infection. Importantly, protection was retained in mice depleted of CD4 + T cells following vaccination, suggesting a strategy to protect persons who are at risk for future CD4 + T cell dysfunction.
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Vlasova-St. Louis I, Mohei H. Molecular Diagnostics of Cryptococcus spp. and Immunomics of Cryptococcosis-Associated Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome. Diseases 2024; 12:101. [PMID: 38785756 PMCID: PMC11120354 DOI: 10.3390/diseases12050101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 05/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcal infection poses a significant global public health challenge, particularly in regions near the equator. In this review, we offer a succinct exploration of the Cryptococcus spp. genome and various molecular typing methods to assess the burden and genetic diversity of cryptococcal pathogens in the environment and clinical isolates. We delve into a detailed discussion on the molecular pathogenesis and diagnosis of immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) associated with cryptococcosis, with a specific emphasis on cryptococcal meningitis IRIS (CM-IRIS). Our examination includes the recent literature on CM-IRIS, covering host cellulomics, proteomics, transcriptomics, and genomics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hesham Mohei
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA;
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Meya DB, Williamson PR. Cryptococcal Disease in Diverse Hosts. N Engl J Med 2024; 390:1597-1610. [PMID: 38692293 DOI: 10.1056/nejmra2311057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- David B Meya
- From the Infectious Diseases Institute and the Department of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda (D.B.M.); the Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis (D.B.M.); and the Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD (P.R.W.)
| | - Peter R Williamson
- From the Infectious Diseases Institute and the Department of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda (D.B.M.); the Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis (D.B.M.); and the Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD (P.R.W.)
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Chang CC, Harrison TS, Bicanic TA, Chayakulkeeree M, Sorrell TC, Warris A, Hagen F, Spec A, Oladele R, Govender NP, Chen SC, Mody CH, Groll AH, Chen YC, Lionakis MS, Alanio A, Castañeda E, Lizarazo J, Vidal JE, Takazono T, Hoenigl M, Alffenaar JW, Gangneux JP, Soman R, Zhu LP, Bonifaz A, Jarvis JN, Day JN, Klimko N, Salmanton-García J, Jouvion G, Meya DB, Lawrence D, Rahn S, Bongomin F, McMullan BJ, Sprute R, Nyazika TK, Beardsley J, Carlesse F, Heath CH, Ayanlowo OO, Mashedi OM, Queiroz-Telles Filho F, Hosseinipour MC, Patel AK, Temfack E, Singh N, Cornely OA, Boulware DR, Lortholary O, Pappas PG, Perfect JR. Global guideline for the diagnosis and management of cryptococcosis: an initiative of the ECMM and ISHAM in cooperation with the ASM. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2024:S1473-3099(23)00731-4. [PMID: 38346436 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(23)00731-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Cryptococcosis is a major worldwide disseminated invasive fungal infection. Cryptococcosis, particularly in its most lethal manifestation of cryptococcal meningitis, accounts for substantial mortality and morbidity. The breadth of the clinical cryptococcosis syndromes, the different patient types at-risk and affected, and the vastly disparate resource settings where clinicians practice pose a complex array of challenges. Expert contributors from diverse regions of the world have collated data, reviewed the evidence, and provided insightful guideline recommendations for health practitioners across the globe. This guideline offers updated practical guidance and implementable recommendations on the clinical approaches, screening, diagnosis, management, and follow-up care of a patient with cryptococcosis and serves as a comprehensive synthesis of current evidence on cryptococcosis. This Review seeks to facilitate optimal clinical decision making on cryptococcosis and addresses the myriad of clinical complications by incorporating data from historical and contemporary clinical trials. This guideline is grounded on a set of core management principles, while acknowledging the practical challenges of antifungal access and resource limitations faced by many clinicians and patients. More than 70 societies internationally have endorsed the content, structure, evidence, recommendation, and pragmatic wisdom of this global cryptococcosis guideline to inform clinicians about the past, present, and future of care for a patient with cryptococcosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina C Chang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Department of Infectious Diseases, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa, Durban, South Africa.
| | - Thomas S Harrison
- Institute of Infection and Immunity, St George's University London, London, UK; Clinical Academic Group in Infection and Immunity, St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK; Medical Research Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Tihana A Bicanic
- Institute of Infection and Immunity, St George's University London, London, UK; Clinical Academic Group in Infection and Immunity, St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK; Medical Research Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Methee Chayakulkeeree
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Tania C Sorrell
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Department of Infectious Diseases, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Adilia Warris
- Medical Research Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK; Department of Infectious Diseases, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, UK
| | - Ferry Hagen
- Faculty of Science, Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Department of Medical Mycology, Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute, Utrecht, Netherlands; Department of Medical Microbiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Andrej Spec
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Rita Oladele
- College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Nelesh P Govender
- Institute of Infection and Immunity, St George's University London, London, UK; Medical Research Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK; Department of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa; Division of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Sharon C Chen
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Department of Infectious Diseases, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, Australia; Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Laboratory Services, Institute for Clinical Pathology and Medical Research, New South Wales Health Pathology, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Christopher H Mody
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Andreas H Groll
- Infectious Disease Research Program, and Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, University Children's Hospital, Münster, Germany; Center for Bone Marrow Transplantation, and Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, University Children's Hospital, Münster, Germany
| | - Yee-Chun Chen
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan; National Institute of Infectious Diseases and Vaccinology, National Health Research Institutes, Zhunan, Taiwan
| | - Michail S Lionakis
- Fungal Pathogenesis Section, Laboratory of Clinical Immunology & Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy & Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Alexandre Alanio
- Institut Pasteur, Centre National de Référence Mycoses Invasives et Antifongiques, Groupe de recherche Mycologie Translationnelle, Département de Mycologie, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France; Laboratoire de parasitologie-mycologie, AP-HP, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | | | - Jairo Lizarazo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitario Erasmo Meoz, Faculty of Health, Univesidad de Pamplona, Cúcuta, Colombia
| | - José E Vidal
- Departmento de Neurologia, Instituto de Infectologia Emílio Ribas, São Paulo, Brazil; Departamento de Moléstias Infecciosas e Parasitárias, Hospital das Clinicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Instituto de Medicina Tropical, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Takahiro Takazono
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan; Department of Respiratory Medicine, Nagasaki University Hospital, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Martin Hoenigl
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Translational Medical Mycology Research Unit, European Confederation of Medical Mycology Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria; BioTechMed, Graz, Austria
| | - Jan-Willem Alffenaar
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Department of Pharmacy, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, Australia; School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jean-Pierre Gangneux
- Institute for Health, Environment and Work Research-Irset, Inserm UMR_S 1085, University of Rennes, Rennes, France; Laboratory for Parasitology and Mycology, Centre National de Référence Mycoses Invasives et Antifongiques LA Asp-C, University Hospital of Rennes, Rennes, France
| | - Rajeev Soman
- Jupiter Hospital, Pune, India; Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital, Pune, India; Hinduja Hospital, Mumbai, India
| | - Li-Ping Zhu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai China
| | - Alexandro Bonifaz
- Hospital General de México, Dermatology Service, Mycology section, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Joseph N Jarvis
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK; Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Jeremy N Day
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Infection, Royal Devon and Exeter University Hospital NHS Trust, Exeter, UK
| | - Nikolai Klimko
- Department of Clinical Mycology, Allergy and Immunology, I Mechnikov North Western State Medical University, Staint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Jon Salmanton-García
- Translational Research, Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf and Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, Department I of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Partner Site Bonn-Cologne, German Centre for Infection Research, Cologne, Germany
| | - Grégory Jouvion
- Histology and Pathology Unit, Ecole nationale vétérinaire d'Alfort, Maisons-Alfort, France; Dynamyc Team, Université Paris Est Créteil and Ecole nationale vétérinaire d'Alfort, Créteil, France
| | - David B Meya
- Infectious Diseases Institute, School of Medicine, College of Heath Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - David Lawrence
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK; Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Sebastian Rahn
- Translational Research, Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf and Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, Department I of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Partner Site Bonn-Cologne, German Centre for Infection Research, Cologne, Germany
| | - Felix Bongomin
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Gulu University, Gulu, Uganda
| | - Brendan J McMullan
- Discipline of Paediatrics, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Department of Infectious Diseases, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Rosanne Sprute
- Translational Research, Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf and Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, Department I of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Partner Site Bonn-Cologne, German Centre for Infection Research, Cologne, Germany
| | - Tinashe K Nyazika
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Justin Beardsley
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Department of Infectious Diseases, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Fabianne Carlesse
- Pediatric Department, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Oncology Pediatric Institute-IOP-GRAACC, Federal Univeristy of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Christopher H Heath
- Department of Microbiology, Fiona Stanley Hospital Network, PathWest Laboratory Medicine, Perth, WA, Australia; Department of Infectious Diseases, Fiona Stanley Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia; UWA Medical School, Internal Medicine, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Olusola O Ayanlowo
- Dermatology Unit, Department of Medicine, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Olga M Mashedi
- Centre for Respiratory Diseases Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Mina C Hosseinipour
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; UNC Project Malawi, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Atul K Patel
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Sterling Hospitals, Ahmedabad, India
| | - Elvis Temfack
- Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Nina Singh
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Oliver A Cornely
- Translational Research, Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf and Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, Department I of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Partner Site Bonn-Cologne, German Centre for Infection Research, Cologne, Germany; Clinical Trials Centre Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - David R Boulware
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Olivier Lortholary
- Université de Paris Cité, APHP, Service des Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, Centre d'Infectiologie Necker-Pasteur, Institut Imagine, Paris, France; Institut Pasteur, CNRS, Unité de Mycologie Moléculaire, Centre National de Référence Mycoses Invasives et Antifongiques, UMR 2000, Paris, France
| | - Peter G Pappas
- Mycoses Study Group Central Unit, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - John R Perfect
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA.
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McHale TC, Boulware DR, Kasibante J, Ssebambulidde K, Skipper CP, Abassi M. Diagnosis and management of cryptococcal meningitis in HIV-infected adults. Clin Microbiol Rev 2023; 36:e0015622. [PMID: 38014977 PMCID: PMC10870732 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00156-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcal meningitis is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally, especially in people with advanced HIV disease. Cryptococcal meningitis is responsible for nearly 20% of all deaths related to advanced HIV disease, with the burden of disease predominantly experienced by people in resource-limited countries. Major advancements in diagnostics have introduced low-cost, easy-to-use antigen tests with remarkably high sensitivity and specificity. These tests have led to improved diagnostic accuracy and are essential for screening campaigns to reduce the burden of cryptococcosis. In the last 5 years, several high-quality, multisite clinical trials have led to innovations in therapeutics that have allowed for simplified regimens, which are better tolerated and result in less intensive monitoring and management of medication adverse effects. One trial found that a shorter, 7-day course of deoxycholate amphotericin B is as effective as the longer 14-day course and that flucytosine is an essential partner drug for reducing mortality in the acute phase of disease. Single-dose liposomal amphotericin B has also been found to be as effective as a 7-day course of deoxycholate amphotericin B. These findings have allowed for simpler and safer treatment regimens that also reduce the burden on the healthcare system. This review provides a detailed discussion of the latest evidence guiding the clinical management and special circumstances that make cryptococcal meningitis uniquely difficult to treat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas C. McHale
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - David R. Boulware
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - John Kasibante
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Caleb P. Skipper
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Mahsa Abassi
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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Tugume L, Ssebambulidde K, Kasibante J, Ellis J, Wake RM, Gakuru J, Lawrence DS, Abassi M, Rajasingham R, Meya DB, Boulware DR. Cryptococcal meningitis. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2023; 9:62. [PMID: 37945681 DOI: 10.1038/s41572-023-00472-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Cryptococcus neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii species complexes cause meningoencephalitis with high fatality rates and considerable morbidity, particularly in persons with deficient T cell-mediated immunity, most commonly affecting people living with HIV. Whereas the global incidence of HIV-associated cryptococcal meningitis (HIV-CM) has decreased over the past decade, cryptococcosis still accounts for one in five AIDS-related deaths globally due to the persistent burden of advanced HIV disease. Moreover, mortality remains high (~50%) in low-resource settings. The armamentarium to decrease cryptococcosis-associated mortality is expanding: cryptococcal antigen screening in the serum and pre-emptive azole therapy for cryptococcal antigenaemia are well established, whereas enhanced pre-emptive combination treatment regimens to improve survival of persons with cryptococcal antigenaemia are in clinical trials. Short courses (≤7 days) of amphotericin-based therapy combined with flucytosine are currently the preferred options for induction therapy of cryptococcal meningitis. Whether short-course induction regimens improve long-term morbidity such as depression, reduced neurocognitive performance and physical disability among survivors is the subject of further study. Here, we discuss underlying immunology, changing epidemiology, and updates on the management of cryptococcal meningitis with emphasis on HIV-associated disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lillian Tugume
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.
| | - Kenneth Ssebambulidde
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - John Kasibante
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jayne Ellis
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Clinical Research Department, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Rachel M Wake
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, UK
| | - Jane Gakuru
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - David S Lawrence
- Clinical Research Department, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Mahsa Abassi
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Radha Rajasingham
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - David B Meya
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - David R Boulware
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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8
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Yoon H, Nakouzi AS, Duong VA, Hung LQ, Binh TQ, Tung NLN, Day JN, Pirofski LA. Shared and unique antibody and B cell profiles in HIV-positive and HIV-negative individuals with cryptococcal meningoencephalitis. Med Mycol 2023; 61:myad102. [PMID: 37771088 PMCID: PMC10599321 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myad102] [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: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Host non-T cell markers to aid in the diagnosis of cryptococcal meningoencephalitis (CM) have not been identified. In this case-control study, we characterized antibody and B cell profiles in HIV-negative and HIV-positive Vietnamese individuals of the Kinh ethnicity recently diagnosed with CM and controls. The study included 60 HIV-negative with no known immunocompromising condition and 60 HIV-positive individuals, with 30 CM cases and 30 controls in each group. Participants were matched by age, sex, HIV serostatus, and CD4 count in the HIV-positive group. Plasma immunoglobulin (Ig) levels, including IgG1, IgG2, IgM, and IgA, Cryptococcus spp. glucuronoxylomannan (GXM)- and laminarin (branched ${\rm{\beta }}$-[1-3]-glucan)-binding IgG, IgM, IgA levels, and peripheral blood B cell subsets were measured. Logistic regression, principal component, and mediation analyses were conducted to assess associations between antibody, B cell levels, and CM. The results showed that GXM-IgG levels were higher and IgG1 and IgG2 were lower in CM cases than controls, regardless of HIV status. In HIV-negative individuals, IgG2 mediated an inverse association between CD19+CD27+CD43+CD5- (B-1b-like) cells and CM. In HIV-positive individuals, lower levels of IgA, laminarin-IgA, and CD19+CD27+IgM+IgD- (IgM+ memory B) cells were each associated with CM. The shared and distinct antibody and B cell profiles identified in HIV-negative and HIV-positive CM cases may inform the identification of non-T-cell markers of CM risk or unsuspected disease, particularly in HIV-negative individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyunah Yoon
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York 10461, USA
| | - Antonio S Nakouzi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York 10461, USA
| | - Van Anh Duong
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, 764 Vo Van Kiet, Ho Chi Minh City Q5, Vietnam
| | - Le Quoc Hung
- Department of Tropical Diseases, Cho Ray Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Tran Quang Binh
- Department of Tropical Diseases, Cho Ray Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Nguyen Le Nhu Tung
- Hospital for Tropical Diseases, 764 Vo Van Kiet, Ho Chi Minh City Q5, Vietnam
| | - Jeremy N Day
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, 764 Vo Van Kiet, Ho Chi Minh City Q5, Vietnam
- Department of Microbiology and Infection, Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, Exeter EX2 5DW, UK
| | - Liise-anne Pirofski
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York 10461, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York 10461, USA
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9
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Tufa TB, Orth HM, Wienemann T, Jensen BEO, Mackenzie CR, Boulware DR, Luedde T, Feldt T. Disseminated Cryptococcosis Is a Common Finding among Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Infected Patients with Suspected Sepsis and Is Associated with Higher Mortality Rates. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:836. [PMID: 37623607 PMCID: PMC10456031 DOI: 10.3390/jof9080836] [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: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcosis is the leading cause of death among people with HIV in Sub-Saharan Africa. The lack of optimum diagnoses and medications significantly impair the management of the disease. We investigated the burden of cryptococcosis and related mortality among people with HIV and suspected sepsis in Ethiopia. We conducted a prospective study at (1) Adama Hospital Medical College and (2) Asella Referral and Teaching Hospital from September 2019 to November 2020. We enrolled adult, HIV-infected patients presenting with suspected sepsis and assessed their 28-day survival rates. We performed blood cultures and cryptococcal antigen (CrAg) testing. In total, 82 participants were enrolled with a median age of 35 years, and 61% were female. Overall, eleven (13%) had positive CrAg tests, of which five grew Cryptococcus in blood cultures. Despite high-dose fluconazole (1200 mg/d) monotherapy being given to those with positive CrAg tests, the 28-day mortality was 64% (7/11), with mortality being significantly higher than among the CrAg-negative patients (9% (6/71); p < 0.001). Cryptococcosis was the leading cause of mortality among HIV-infected sepsis patients in this Ethiopian cohort. The CrAg screening of HIV-infected patients attending an emergency department can minimize the number of missed cryptococcosis cases irrespective of the CD4 T cell count and viral load. These findings warrant the need for a bundle approach for the diagnosis of HIV-infected persons presenting with sepsis in low- and middle-income countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tafese Beyene Tufa
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital and Medical Faculty of the Heinrich, Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; (H.M.O.); (B.-E.O.J.); (T.L.)
- Hirsch Institute of Tropical Medicine, Asella P.O. Box 04, Ethiopia
- College of Health Sciences, Arsi University, Asella P.O. Box 04, Ethiopia
| | - Hans Martin Orth
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital and Medical Faculty of the Heinrich, Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; (H.M.O.); (B.-E.O.J.); (T.L.)
- Hirsch Institute of Tropical Medicine, Asella P.O. Box 04, Ethiopia
| | - Tobias Wienemann
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hospital Hygiene, University Hospital Duesseldorf, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Universitätsstr. 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; (T.W.); (C.R.M.)
| | - Bjoern-Erik Ole Jensen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital and Medical Faculty of the Heinrich, Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; (H.M.O.); (B.-E.O.J.); (T.L.)
| | - Colin R. Mackenzie
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hospital Hygiene, University Hospital Duesseldorf, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Universitätsstr. 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; (T.W.); (C.R.M.)
| | - David R. Boulware
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA;
| | - Tom Luedde
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital and Medical Faculty of the Heinrich, Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; (H.M.O.); (B.-E.O.J.); (T.L.)
- Hirsch Institute of Tropical Medicine, Asella P.O. Box 04, Ethiopia
| | - Torsten Feldt
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital and Medical Faculty of the Heinrich, Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; (H.M.O.); (B.-E.O.J.); (T.L.)
- Hirsch Institute of Tropical Medicine, Asella P.O. Box 04, Ethiopia
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10
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Lehman A, Ellis J, Nalintya E, Bahr NC, Loyse A, Rajasingham R. Advanced HIV disease: A review of diagnostic and prophylactic strategies. HIV Med 2023; 24:859-876. [PMID: 37041113 PMCID: PMC10642371 DOI: 10.1111/hiv.13487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite expanded access to antiretroviral therapy (ART) and the rollout of the World Health Organization's (WHO) 'test-and-treat' strategy, the proportion of people with HIV (PWH) presenting with advanced HIV disease (AHD) remains unchanged at approximately 30%. Fifty percent of persons with AHD report prior engagement to care. ART failure and insufficient retention in HIV care are major causes of AHD. People living with AHD are at high risk for opportunistic infections and death. In 2017, the WHO published guidelines for the management of AHD that included a comprehensive package of care for screening and prophylaxis of major opportunistic infections (OIs). In the interim, ART regimens have evolved: integrase inhibitors are first-line therapy globally, and the diagnostic landscape is evolving. The objective of this review is to highlight novel point-of-care (POC) diagnostics and treatment strategies that can facilitate OI screening and prophylaxis for persons with AHD. METHODS We reviewed the WHO guidelines for recommendations for persons with AHD. We summarized the scientific literature on current and emerging diagnostics, along with emerging treatment strategies for persons with AHD. We also highlight the key research and implementation gaps together with potential solutions. RESULTS While POC CD4 testing is being rolled out in order to identify persons with AHD, this alone is insufficient; implementation of the Visitect CD4 platform has been challenging given operational and test interpretation issues. Numerous non-sputum POC TB diagnostics are being evaluated, many with limited sensitivity. Though imperfect, these tests are designed to provide rapid results (within hours) and are relatively affordable for resource-poor settings. While novel POC diagnostics are being developed for cryptococcal infection, histoplasmosis and talaromycosis, implementation science studies are urgently needed to understand the clinical benefit of these tests in the routine care. CONCLUSIONS Despite progress with HIV treatment and prevention, a persistent 20%-30% of PWH present to care with AHD. Unfortunately, these persons with AHD continue to carry the burden of HIV-related morbidity and mortality. Investment in the development of additional POC or near-bedside CD4 platforms is urgently needed. Implementation of POC diagnostics theoretically could improve HIV retention in care and thereby reduce mortality by overcoming delays in laboratory testing and providing patients and healthcare workers with timely same-day results. However, in real-world scenarios, people with AHD have multiple comorbidities and imperfect follow-up. Pragmatic clinical trials are needed to understand whether these POC diagnostics can facilitate timely diagnosis and treatment, thereby improving clinical outcomes such as HIV retention in care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Lehman
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Jayne Ellis
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | - Nathan C. Bahr
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Kansas, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - Angela Loyse
- Division of Infection and Immunity Research Institute, St George’s University of London, London, UK
| | - Radha Rajasingham
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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11
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Person AK, Crabtree-Ramirez B, Kim A, Veloso V, Maruri F, Wandeler G, Fox M, Moore R, John Gill M, Imran D, Van Nguyen K, Nalitya E, Muyindike W, Shepherd BE, McGowan CC. Cryptococcal Meningitis and Clinical Outcomes in Persons With Human Immunodeficiency Virus: A Global View. Clin Infect Dis 2023; 76:2116-2125. [PMID: 36821489 PMCID: PMC10273391 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciad076] [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: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cryptococcal meningitis (CM) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in persons with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV; PWH). Little is known about CM outcomes and availability of diagnostic and treatment modalities globally. METHODS In this retrospective cohort study, we investigated CM incidence and all-cause mortality in PWH in the International Epidemiology Databases to Evaluate AIDS cohort from 1996 to 2017. We estimated incidence using quasi-Poisson models adjusted for sex, age, calendar year, CD4 cell count (CD4), and antiretroviral therapy (ART) status. Mortality after CM diagnosis was examined using multivariable Cox models. A site survey from 2017 assessed availability of CM diagnostic and treatment modalities. RESULTS Among 518 852 PWH, there were 3857 cases of CM with an estimated incidence of 1.54 per 1000 person-years. Mortality over a median of 2.6 years of post-CM diagnosis follow-up was 31.6%, with 29% lost to follow-up. In total, 2478 (64%) were diagnosed with CM after ART start with a median of 253 days from ART start to CM diagnosis. Older age (hazard [HR], 1.31 for 50 vs 35 years), lower CD4 (HR, 1.15 for 200 vs 350 cells/mm3), and earlier year of CM diagnosis (HR, 0.51 for 2015 vs 2000) were associated with higher mortality. Of 89 sites, 34% reported access to amphotericin B; 12% had access to flucytosine. CONCLUSIONS Mortality after CM diagnosis was high. A substantial portion of CM cases occurred after ART start, though incidence and mortality may be higher than reported due to ascertainment bias. Many sites lacked access to recommended CM treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna K Person
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Brenda Crabtree-Ramirez
- Departamento de Infectología, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Ahra Kim
- Department of Biostatistics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Valdiléa Veloso
- Intituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Maruri
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Gilles Wandeler
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Matthew Fox
- Department of Global Health, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Richard Moore
- Center for Global Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - M John Gill
- Department of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Darma Imran
- Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | | | - Elizabeth Nalitya
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Winnie Muyindike
- Department of Internal Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology and Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Bryan E Shepherd
- Department of Biostatistics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Catherine C McGowan
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
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12
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Hachey DM, Wood BR, Buitrago M, Burde A. Therapy for HIV-associated cryptococcal meningitis: a case report demonstrating a new treatment approach emphasizing updated treatment guidelines. DRUGS & THERAPY PERSPECTIVES 2023; 39:1-6. [PMID: 37361909 PMCID: PMC10258474 DOI: 10.1007/s40267-023-01001-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Cryptococcal meningitis (CM) remains a significant global health burden, especially for persons living with HIV. Despite effective antiretroviral and antifungal therapy, mortality rates are still approximately 70% in low- and middle-income countries and 20-30% in high-income countries. Central nervous system symptoms range from mild to severe, depending on burden of disease, and prompt and appropriate therapy is critical to reducing mortality. Treatment consists of three phases: induction, consolidation, and maintenance. Although treatment regimens have largely remained unchanged for decades, recent clinical trials have led the World Health Organization to update guidelines to reflect best practices in resource-limited settings. We review the clinical presentation, diagnosis, and standard therapy for CM, present a case with a challenging diagnostic and treatment course complicated by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic, and discuss the benefits of a new treatment dosing strategy highlighting potential advantages of adopting this novel dosing option in high-income countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M. Hachey
- Department of Family Medicine, Idaho State University, Pocatello, ID USA
| | - Brian R. Wood
- Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Martha Buitrago
- Department of Family Medicine, Idaho State University, Pocatello, ID USA
| | - Anushka Burde
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Administrative Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Idaho State University, Pocatello, ID USA
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13
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Osborn MR, Spec A, Mazi PB. Management of HIV-Associated Cryptococcal Meningitis. CURRENT FUNGAL INFECTION REPORTS 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s12281-023-00458-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
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14
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Lehman A, Nalintya E, Wele A, Kirumira P, Naluyima R, Namuli T, Turya Musa F, Skipper CP, Meya DB, Boulware DR, Rajasingham R. Hyponatremia as a Predictor of Cryptococcal Meningitis and Death Among Asymptomatic Persons With HIV and Cryptococcal Antigenemia. Open Forum Infect Dis 2023; 10:ofad156. [PMID: 37008569 PMCID: PMC10061560 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofad156] [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: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Among persons with human immunodeficiency virus-associated cryptococcal meningitis serum hyponatremia is a risk factor for mortality; however, the role of hyponatremia in persons with asymptomatic cryptococcal antigenemia is unknown. We found that serum hyponatremia ≤130 mmol/L is an independent risk factor for progression to meningitis and death in asymptomatic persons with cryptococcal antigenemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Lehman
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | | | - Abduljewad Wele
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Paul Kirumira
- Infectious Disease Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Rose Naluyima
- Infectious Disease Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Teopista Namuli
- Infectious Disease Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Fred Turya Musa
- Infectious Disease Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Caleb P Skipper
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - David B Meya
- Infectious Disease Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - David R Boulware
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Radha Rajasingham
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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15
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Levin AE, Bangdiwala AS, Nalintya E, Kagimu E, Kasibante J, Rutakingirwa MK, Mpoza E, Jjunju S, Nuwagira E, Naluyima R, Kirumira P, Hou C, Ssebambulidde K, Musubire AK, Williams DA, Abassi M, Muzoora C, Hullsiek KH, Rajasingham R, Meya DB, Boulware DR, Skipper CP. Outpatient Cryptococcal Antigen Screening Is Associated With Favorable Baseline Characteristics and Improved Survival in Persons With Cryptococcal Meningitis in Uganda. Clin Infect Dis 2023; 76:e759-e765. [PMID: 35859045 PMCID: PMC10169421 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciac599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is unknown whether persons with symptomatic cryptococcal meningitis detected during routine blood cryptococcal antigen (CrAg) screening have better survival than persons presenting with overt meningitis. METHODS We prospectively enrolled Ugandans with HIV and cryptocococcal meningitis from December 2018 to December 2021. Participants were treated with amphotericin-based combination therapy. We compared outcomes between persons who were CrAg screened then referred to hospital with those presenting directly to the hospital with symptomatic meningitis. RESULTS Among 489 participants with cryptococcal meningitis, 40% (194/489) received blood CrAg screening and were referred to hospital (median time to referral 2 days; interquartile range [IQR], 1-6). CrAg-screened persons referred to hospital had lower 14-day mortality than non-CrAg-screened persons who presented directly to hospital with symptomatic meningitis (12% vs 21%; hazard ratio, .51; 95% confidence interval, .32-.83; P = .006). Fewer CrAg-screened participants had altered mental status versus non-CrAg-screened participants (29% vs 41%; P = .03). CrAg-screened persons had lower quantitative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) culture burden (median [IQR], 4570 [11-100 000] vs 26 900 [182-324 000] CFU/mL; P = .01) and lower CSF opening pressures (median [IQR], 190 [120-270] vs 225 [140-340] mmH2O; P = .004) compared with non-CrAg-screened persons. CONCLUSIONS Survival from cryptococcal meningitis was higher in persons with prior CrAg screening than those without CrAg screening. Altered mental status was the most potent predictor for mortality in a multivariate model. We suggest that CrAg screening detects cryptococcal meningitis at an earlier stage, as evidenced by a favorable baseline risk profile and notably fewer persons with altered mental status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna E Levin
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Ananta S Bangdiwala
- Division of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | | | - Enock Kagimu
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - John Kasibante
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Edward Mpoza
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Samuel Jjunju
- Department of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Edwin Nuwagira
- Department of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Rose Naluyima
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Paul Kirumira
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Cody Hou
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | | | - Abdu K Musubire
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Darlisha A Williams
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Mahsa Abassi
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Conrad Muzoora
- Department of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Katherine H Hullsiek
- Division of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Radha Rajasingham
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - David B Meya
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - David R Boulware
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Caleb P Skipper
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
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16
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Skipper CP, Hullsiek KH, Stadelman A, Williams DA, Ssebambulidde K, Okafor E, Tugume L, Nuwagira E, Akampurira A, Musubire AK, Abassi M, Muzoora C, Rhein J, Boulware DR, Meya DB. Sterile Cerebrospinal Fluid Culture at Cryptococcal Meningitis Diagnosis Is Associated with High Mortality. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 9:46. [PMID: 36675867 PMCID: PMC9866844 DOI: 10.3390/jof9010046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcus is the leading cause of AIDS-related meningitis in sub-Saharan Africa. The clinical implications of a sterile cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) culture among individuals diagnosed with cryptococcal meningitis using CSF cryptococcal antigen (CrAg) are unclear. We prospectively enrolled 765 HIV-positive Ugandans with first-episode cryptococcal meningitis from November 2010 to May 2017. All persons were treated with amphotericin-based induction therapy. We grouped participants by tertile of baseline CSF quantitative Cryptococcus culture burden and compared clinical characteristics, CSF immune profiles, and 18-week mortality. We found 55 (7%) CSF CrAg-positive participants with sterile CSF cultures. Compared to the non-sterile groups, participants with sterile CSF cultures had higher CD4 counts, lower CSF opening pressures, and were more frequently receiving ART. By 18 weeks, 47% [26/55] died in the sterile culture group versus 35% [83/235] in the low culture tertile, 46% [107/234] in the middle tertile, and 56% [135/241] in the high tertile (p < 0.001). The sterile group had higher levels of CSF interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), IFN-α, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-17, G-CSF, GM-CSF, and chemokine CXCL2 compared with non-sterile groups. Despite persons with sterile CSF cultures having higher CD4 counts, lower CSF opening pressures, and CSF cytokine profiles associated with better Cryptococcus control (e.g., IFN-γ predominant), mortality was similar to those with higher fungal burdens. This unexpected finding challenges the traditional paradigm that increasing CSF fungal burdens are associated with increased mortality but is consistent with a damage-response framework model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caleb P Skipper
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala 7062, Uganda
| | | | - Anna Stadelman
- School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Darlisha A Williams
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala 7062, Uganda
| | | | - Elizabeth Okafor
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Lillian Tugume
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala 7062, Uganda
| | - Edwin Nuwagira
- Department of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara 1410, Uganda
| | - Andrew Akampurira
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala 7062, Uganda
| | - Abdu K Musubire
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala 7062, Uganda
| | - Mahsa Abassi
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala 7062, Uganda
| | - Conrad Muzoora
- Department of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara 1410, Uganda
| | - Joshua Rhein
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala 7062, Uganda
| | - David R Boulware
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - David B Meya
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala 7062, Uganda
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17
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Rajasingham R, Govender NP, Jordan A, Loyse A, Shroufi A, Denning DW, Meya DB, Chiller TM, Boulware DR. The global burden of HIV-associated cryptococcal infection in adults in 2020: a modelling analysis. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2022; 22:1748-1755. [PMID: 36049486 PMCID: PMC9701154 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(22)00499-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 185] [Impact Index Per Article: 92.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cryptococcal meningitis is the most common cause of meningitis in adults living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa. The estimates of national, regional, and global burden of cryptococcal meningitis are essential to guide prevention strategies and determine needs for diagnostic tests and treatments. We present a 2020 estimate of the global burden of HIV-associated cryptococcal infection (antigenaemia), cryptococcal meningitis, and cryptococcal-associated deaths. METHODS We defined advanced HIV disease as adults with a CD4 count of less than 200 cells/μL, as this group is at highest risk for cryptococcosis. We used UNAIDS estimates (2019-20) and population-based HIV impact assessment surveys (2016-18) to estimate the number of adults with CD4 counts of less than 200 cells/μL at risk for cryptococcosis, by country and region. Secondly, we summarised cryptococcal antigenaemia prevalence in those with a CD4 count of less than 200 cells/μL by reviewing published literature. Thereafter, we calculated the number of cryptococcal antigen (CrAg)-positive people in each country and region by multiplying the number with advanced HIV disease at risk for cryptococcal infection by the cryptococcal antigenaemia prevalence of the respective country or region. We estimated progression from cryptococcal antigenaemia to meningitis or death based on estimates from the published literature. FINDINGS We estimated that there were 4·3 million (IQR 3·0-4·8) adults with HIV and CD4 counts of less than 200 cells/μL globally in 2020. We calculated a mean global cryptococcal antigenaemia prevalence of 4·4% (95% CI 1·6-7·4) among HIV-positive people with CD4 counts of less than 200 cells/μL, corresponding to 179 000 cases (IQR 133 000-219 000) of cryptococcal antigenaemia globally in 2020. Annually, we estimated that there are 152 000 cases (111 000-185 000) of cryptococcal meningitis, resulting in 112 000 cryptococcal-related deaths (79 000-134 000). Globally, cryptococcal disease accounts for 19% (13-24) of AIDS-related mortality. INTERPRETATION Despite a reduction in the estimated absolute global burden of HIV-associated cryptococcal meningitis compared with 2014, likely to be due to antiretroviral therapy expansion, cryptococcal disease still accounts for 19% of AIDS-related deaths, similar to 2014 estimates. To end cryptococcal meningitis deaths by 2030, cryptococcal diagnostics, meningitis treatments, and implementation of preventive screening are urgently needed. FUNDING None.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radha Rajasingham
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA.
| | - Nelesh P Govender
- National Institute for Communicable Diseases, National Health Laboratory Service and Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Alexander Jordan
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Angela Loyse
- Centre for Global Health, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, UK
| | | | - David W Denning
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK; Global Action Fund for Fungal Infections, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - David B Meya
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA; Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Tom M Chiller
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - David R Boulware
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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18
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Mashau RC, Meiring ST, Quan VC, Nel J, Greene GS, Garcia A, Menezes C, Reddy DL, Venter M, Stacey S, Madua M, Boretti L, Harrison TS, Meintjes G, Shroufi A, Trivino-Duran L, Black J, Govender NP. Outcomes of flucytosine-containing combination treatment for cryptococcal meningitis in a South African national access programme: a cross-sectional observational study. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2022; 22:1365-1373. [PMID: 35750065 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(22)00234-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although flucytosine is a key component of WHO-recommended induction treatment for HIV-associated cryptococcal meningitis, this antifungal agent is not widely available in low-income and middle-income countries due to limited production and cost. In 2018, a national flucytosine access programme was initiated in South Africa. We aimed to determine the effectiveness of flucytosine-containing induction regimens in routine care to motivate for the urgent registration of flucytosine and its inclusion in treatment guidelines. METHODS In this cross-sectional study, we compared outcomes of adults aged 18 years and older with incident laboratory-confirmed cryptococcal meningitis treated with or without flucytosine-containing regimens at 19 sentinel hospitals in South Africa. A case of cryptococcosis was defined as illness in an adult with: (1) positive cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) India ink microscopy; (2) a positive CSF cryptococcal antigen test; or (3) culture of Cryptococcus neoformans or Cryptococcus gattii from CSF or any other specimen. We excluded patients without a case report form, those with an unknown or negative HIV serology result, those with a recurrent episode, and those who did not receive antifungal treatment in hospital. We assessed cumulative in-hospital mortality at 14 days and 30 days and calculated the overall crude in-hospital case-fatality ratio. We used random-effects logistic regression to examine the association between treatment group and in-hospital mortality. FINDINGS From July 1, 2018, to March 31, 2020, 10 668 individuals were diagnosed with laboratory-confirmed cryptococcal meningitis, 7787 cases diagnosed at non-enhanced surveillance sites and 567 cases from eight enhanced surveillance sites with no access to flucytosine were excluded. Of 2314 adults with a first episode of cryptococcosis diagnosed at 19 facilities with access to flucytosine, 1996 had a case report form and of these, 1539 received induction antifungal treatment and were confirmed HIV-seropositive first-episode cases. Of 1539 patients who received antifungal therapy, 596 (38·7%) individuals received a flucytosine-containing regimen and 943 (61·3%) received another regimen. The median age was 36 years (IQR 32-43) and 906 (58·9%) participants were male and 633 (41·1%) were female. The crude in-hospital case-fatality ratio was 23·9% (95% CI 20·0-27·0; 143 of 596) in those treated with flucytosine-containing regimens and 37·2% (95% CI 34·0-40·0; 351 of 943) in those treated with other regimens. Patients admitted to non-academic hospitals (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1·95 [95% CI 1·53-2·48]; p<0·0001) and those who were antiretroviral treatment-experienced (aOR 1·30 [1·02-1·67]; p=0·033) were more likely to receive flucytosine. After adjusting for relevant confounders, flucytosine treatment was associated with a 53% reduction in mortality (aOR 0·47 [95% CI 0·35-0·64]; p<0·0001). Among survivors, the median length of hospital admission in the flucytosine group was 11 days (IQR 8-15) versus 17 days (13-21) in the comparison group (p=0·0010). INTERPRETATION In-hospital mortality among patients treated with a flucytosine-containing regimen was comparable to reduced mortality reported in patients receiving a flucytosine-containing regimen in a recent multicentre African clinical trial. Flucytosine-based treatment can be delivered in routine care in a middle-income country with a substantial survival benefit. FUNDING National Institute for Communicable Diseases, a Division of the National Health Laboratory Service. TRANSLATION For the Zulu translation of the abstract see Supplementary Materials section.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rudzani C Mashau
- Centre for Healthcare-Associated Infections, Antimicrobial Resistance and Mycoses, National Institute for Communicable Diseases, a Division of the National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg, South Africa.
| | - Susan T Meiring
- Division of Public Health Surveillance and Response, National Institute for Communicable Diseases, a Division of the National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg, South Africa; School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Vanessa C Quan
- Division of Public Health Surveillance and Response, National Institute for Communicable Diseases, a Division of the National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Jeremy Nel
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa; Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Helen Joseph Hospital, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Greg S Greene
- Centre for Healthcare-Associated Infections, Antimicrobial Resistance and Mycoses, National Institute for Communicable Diseases, a Division of the National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Andrea Garcia
- Clinton Health Access Initiative, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Colin Menezes
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa; Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, Soweto, South Africa
| | - Denasha L Reddy
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa; Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, Soweto, South Africa
| | - Michelle Venter
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa; Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, Soweto, South Africa
| | - Sarah Stacey
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa; Department of Internal Medicine, Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Matamela Madua
- Department of Medicine, Rob Ferreira Hospital, Mbombela, South Africa
| | - Lia Boretti
- Division of Infectious Diseases and HIV Medicine, Livingstone Hospital, Gqeberha, South Africa
| | - Thomas S Harrison
- Institute of Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, UK; Clinical Academic Group in Infection and Immunity, St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK; MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Graeme Meintjes
- Department of Medicine, Wellcome Centre for Infectious Diseases Research in Africa and Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Amir Shroufi
- Medecins Sans Frontieres/Doctors Without Borders, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Laura Trivino-Duran
- Medecins Sans Frontieres/Doctors Without Borders, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - John Black
- Division of Infectious Diseases and HIV Medicine, Livingstone Hospital, Gqeberha, South Africa
| | - Nelesh P Govender
- Centre for Healthcare-Associated Infections, Antimicrobial Resistance and Mycoses, National Institute for Communicable Diseases, a Division of the National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg, South Africa; School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa; Institute of Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, UK; MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK; Division of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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19
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Kagimu E, Engen N, Ssebambulidde K, Kasibante J, Kiiza TK, Mpoza E, Tugume L, Nuwagira E, Nsangi L, Williams DA, Hullsiek KH, Boulware DR, Meya DB, Rhein J, Abassi M, Musubire AK. Therapeutic Lumbar Punctures in Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Associated Cryptococcal Meningitis: Should Opening Pressure Direct Management? Open Forum Infect Dis 2022; 9:ofac416. [PMID: 36092828 PMCID: PMC9454029 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofac416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Increased intracranial pressure (ICP) frequently complicates cryptococcal meningitis. Therapeutic lumbar punctures (LPs) have acute survival benefits in the first week, and we sought to understand the longer-term survival impact of therapeutic LPs. Methods We prospectively enrolled human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-seropositive adults with cryptococcal meningitis from 2013 to 2017 in Uganda. We assessed the association between clinical characteristics, CSF parameters, and 14- and 30-day mortality by baseline ICP. We also assessed 30-day mortality by number of follow-up therapeutic LPs performed within 7 days. Results Our analysis included 533 participants. Participants with baseline ICP >350 mm H2O were more likely to have Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score <15 (P < .001), seizures (P < .01), and higher quantitative cryptococcal cultures (P < .001), whereas participants with ICP <200 mm H2O were more likely to have baseline sterile CSF cultures (P < .001) and CSF white blood cell count ≥5 cells/µL (P = .02). Thirty-day mortality was higher in participants with baseline ICP >350 mm H2O and ICP <200 mm H2O as compared with baseline ICP 200-350 mm H2O (hazard ratio, 1.55 [95% confidence interval, 1.10-2.19]; P = .02). Among survivors at least 7 days, the 30-day relative mortality was 50% higher among participants who did not receive any additional therapeutic LPs compared to those with ≥1 additional follow-up LP (33% vs 22%; P = .04), irrespective of baseline ICP. Conclusions Management of increased ICP remains crucial in improving clinical outcomes in cryptococcal meningitis. Guidelines should consider an approach to therapeutic LPs that is not dictated by baseline ICP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enock Kagimu
- Correspondence: Enock Kagimu, MD, Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, PO Box 22418, Kampala, Uganda ()
| | - Nicole Engen
- Division of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Kenneth Ssebambulidde
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - John Kasibante
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Tadeo K Kiiza
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Edward Mpoza
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Lillian Tugume
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Edwin Nuwagira
- Department of Internal Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Laura Nsangi
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Darlisha A Williams
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda,Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Kathy Huppler Hullsiek
- Division of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - David R Boulware
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - David B Meya
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda,Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA,School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joshua Rhein
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda,Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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20
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Atim PB, Meya DB, Gerlach ES, Muhanguzi D, Male A, Kanamwanji B, Nielsen K. Lack of Association between Fluconazole Susceptibility and ERG11 Nucleotide Polymorphisms in Cryptococcus neoformans Clinical Isolates from Uganda. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:508. [PMID: 35628763 PMCID: PMC9145384 DOI: 10.3390/jof8050508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Fluconazole is the drug of choice for cryptococcal meningitis (CM) monoprophylaxis in resource-limited settings such as Uganda. Emerging fluconazole resistance linked to mutations in the Cryptococcus neoformansERG11 gene (CYP51) has been observed in clinical isolates. Currently, the single nucleotide polymorphisms [SNPs] in the Cryptococcus spp. ERG11 gene that could be responsible for fluconazole resistance are poorly characterized within Ugandan C. neoformans clinical isolates. If available, this information would be useful in the management of cryptococcosis among HIV patients. This cross-sectional study investigates the SNPs present in the coding region of the C. neoformansERG11 gene to determine the relationship between the SNPs identified and fluconazole susceptibility of the clinical isolates. 310 C. neoformans isolates recovered from the Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) of patients with HIV and cryptococcal meningitis were examined. The fluconazole half-maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50 range: 0.25−32 μg/mL) was determined using the microbroth dilution method. A total of 56.1% of the isolates had low IC50 values of <8 μg/mL while 43.9% had high IC50 values ≥ 8 μg/mL. We amplified and sequenced 600 bp of the ERG11 coding sequence from 40 of the clinical isolates. Novel synonymous and 2 missense mutations, S460T and A457V, were identified in the ERG11 gene. The identified SNPs were not associated with differences in fluconazole IC50 values in vitro (p = 0.179).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - David B. Meya
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Kampala P.O. Box 22418, Uganda;
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; (E.S.G.); (K.N.)
| | - Elliot S. Gerlach
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; (E.S.G.); (K.N.)
| | - Dennis Muhanguzi
- College of Veterinary Medicine Animal Resources and Biosecurity, Makerere University, Kampala P.O. Box 7062, Uganda;
| | - Allan Male
- International Centre for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT)—Uganda, Kampala P.O. Box 6247, Uganda;
| | - Benedict Kanamwanji
- National Microbiology Reference Laboratory (NMRL), Kampala P.O. Box 7272, Uganda;
| | - Kirsten Nielsen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; (E.S.G.); (K.N.)
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21
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Okwir M, Link A, Rhein J, Obbo JS, Okello J, Nabongo B, Alal J, Meya D, Bohjanen PR. High Burden of Cryptococcal Meningitis Among ART-Experienced HIV-infected Patients in Northern Uganda in the era of “Test and Treat”: Implications for Cryptococcal Screening Programs. Open Forum Infect Dis 2022; 9:ofac004. [PMID: 35111875 PMCID: PMC8802797 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofac004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The impact of the “test and treat” program for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) treatment in rural areas of Uganda on cryptococcal antigen (CrAg) screening or cryptococcal meningitis (CM) is poorly understood. Methods We retrospectively evaluated clinical factors in 212 HIV-infected patients diagnosed with CM from February of 2017 to November of 2019 at Lira Regional Referral Hospital in northern Uganda. Results Among 212 patients diagnosed with CM, 58.5% were male. Median age was 35 years; CD4 count and HIV viral load (VL) were 86 cells/μL and 9463 copies/mL, respectively. Only 10% of patients had a previous history of CM. We found that 190 of 209 (90.9%) patients were ART experienced and 19 (9.1%) were ART naive. Overall, 90 of 212 (42.5%) patients died while hospitalized (median time to death, 14 days). Increased risk of death was associated with altered mental status (hazard ratio [HR], 6.6 [95% confidence interval {CI}, 2.411–18.219]; P ≤ .0001) and seizures (HR, 5.23 [95% CI, 1.245–21.991]; P = .024). Conclusions Current guidelines recommend CrAg screening based on low CD4 counts for ART-naive patients and VL or clinical failure for ART-experienced patients. Using current guidelines for CrAg screening, some ART-experienced patients miss CrAg screening in resource-limited settings, when CD4 or VL tests are unavailable. We found that the majority of HIV-infected patients with CM were ART experienced (90.9%) at presentation. The high burden of CM in ART-experienced patients supports a need for improved CrAg screening of ART-exposed patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Okwir
- Department of Medicine, Lira University, Lira, Uganda
- Lira Regional Referral Hospital, Lira, Uganda
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Abigail Link
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, USA
- University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Joshua Rhein
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, USA
| | | | | | | | - Jimmy Alal
- Lira Regional Referral Hospital, Lira, Uganda
| | - David Meya
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, USA
| | - Paul R Bohjanen
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, USA
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22
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Mohamed SH, Nyazika TK, Ssebambulidde K, Lionakis MS, Meya DB, Drummond RA. Fungal CNS Infections in Africa: The Neuroimmunology of Cryptococcal Meningitis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:804674. [PMID: 35432326 PMCID: PMC9010970 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.804674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcal meningitis (CM) is the leading cause of central nervous system (CNS) fungal infections in humans, with the majority of cases reported from the African continent. This is partly due to the high burden of HIV infection in the region and reduced access to standard-of-care including optimal sterilising antifungal drug treatments. As such, CM is responsible for 10-15% of all HIV-related mortality, with a large proportion being preventable. Immunity to the causative agent of CM, Cryptococcus neoformans, is only partially understood. IFNγ producing CD4+ T-cells are required for the activation of myeloid cells, especially macrophages, to enable fungal killing and clearance. However, macrophages may also act as a reservoir of the fungal yeast cells, shielding them from host immune detection thus promoting latent infection or persistent chronic inflammation. In this chapter, we review the epidemiology and pathogenesis of CNS fungal infections in Africa, with a major focus on CM, and the antifungal immune pathways operating to protect against C. neoformans infection. We also highlight the areas of research and policy that require prioritisation to help reduce the burden of CNS fungal diseases in Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally H Mohamed
- Institute of Immunology & Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Tinashe K Nyazika
- Department of Clinical Science, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Kenneth Ssebambulidde
- College of Health Sciences, Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Michail S Lionakis
- Fungal Pathogenesis Section, Laboratory of Clinical Immunology & Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy & Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - David B Meya
- College of Health Sciences, Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Rebecca A Drummond
- Institute of Immunology & Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom.,Institute of Microbiology & Infection, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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23
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Paulin HN, Raizes E. Cryptococcal Antigenemia and the Implications of Viral Load-Directed Cryptococcal Antigen Screening in Antiretroviral Therapy-Experienced Patients With Human Immunodeficiency Virus. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 73:e2819-e2820. [PMID: 33069168 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciaa1565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Heather N Paulin
- Division of Global HIV and Tuberculosis, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Elliot Raizes
- Division of Global HIV and Tuberculosis, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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24
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Kalata N, Ellis J, Kanyama C, Kuoanfank C, Temfack E, Mfinanga S, Lesikari S, Chanda D, Lakhi S, Nyazika T, Chan AK, van Oosterhout JJ, Chen T, Hosseinipour MC, Lortholary O, Wang D, Jaffar S, Loyse A, Heyderman RS, Harrison TS, Molloy SF. Short-term Mortality Outcomes of HIV-Associated Cryptococcal Meningitis in Antiretroviral Therapy-Naïve and -Experienced Patients in Sub-Saharan Africa. Open Forum Infect Dis 2021; 8:ofab397. [PMID: 34646905 PMCID: PMC8501291 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofab397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND An increasing proportion of patients with HIV-associated cryptococcal meningitis have received antiretroviral therapy (ART) before presentation. There is some evidence suggesting an increased 2-week mortality in those receiving ART for <14 days compared with those on ART for >14 days. However, presentation and outcomes for cryptococcal meningitis patients who have recently initiated ART, and those with virologic failure and/or nonadherence, are not well described. METHODS Six hundred seventy-eight adults with a first episode of cryptococcal meningitis recruited into a randomized, noninferiority, multicenter phase 3 trial in 4 Sub-Saharan countries were analyzed to compare clinical presentation and 2- and 10-week mortality outcomes between ART-naïve and -experienced patients and between patients receiving ART for varying durations before presentation. RESULTS Over half (56%; 381/678) the study participants diagnosed with a first episode of cryptococcal meningitis were ART-experienced. All-cause mortality was similar at 2 weeks (17% vs 20%; hazard ratio [HR], 0.85; 95% CI, 0.6-1.2; P = .35) and 10 weeks (38% vs 36%; HR, 1.03; 95% CI, 0.8-1.32; P = .82) for ART-experienced and ART-naïve patients. Among ART-experienced patients, using different cutoff points for ART duration, there were no significant differences in 2- and 10-week mortality based on duration of ART. CONCLUSIONS In this study, there were no significant differences in mortality at 2 and 10 weeks between ART-naïve and -experienced patients and between ART-experienced patients according to duration on ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Newton Kalata
- Malawi Liverpool Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Jayne Ellis
- Division of Infection and Immunity, University College London, London, UK
| | - Cecilia Kanyama
- University of North Carolina Project, Kamuzu Central Hospital, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | | | | | - Sayoki Mfinanga
- Muhimbili Centre, National Institute for Medical Research, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Sokoine Lesikari
- Muhimbili Centre, National Institute for Medical Research, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
| | | | | | - Tinashe Nyazika
- Malawi Liverpool Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Adrienne K Chan
- Dignitas International, Zomba Central Hospital, Zomba, Malawi
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Tao Chen
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Mina C Hosseinipour
- University of North Carolina Project, Kamuzu Central Hospital, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Olivier Lortholary
- Necker Pasteur Center for Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, IHU Imagine, Assistance Publique–Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Duolao Wang
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Angela Loyse
- Centre for Global Health, Institute of Infection and Immunity, St George University of London, London, UK
| | - Robert S Heyderman
- Division of Infection and Immunity, University College London, London, UK
| | - Thomas S Harrison
- Centre for Global Health, Institute of Infection and Immunity, St George University of London, London, UK
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Síle F Molloy
- Centre for Global Health, Institute of Infection and Immunity, St George University of London, London, UK
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Stott KE, Loyse A, Jarvis JN, Alufandika M, Harrison TS, Mwandumba HC, Day JN, Lalloo DG, Bicanic T, Perfect JR, Hope W. Cryptococcal meningoencephalitis: time for action. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2021; 21:e259-e271. [PMID: 33872594 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(20)30771-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 09/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Cryptococcal meningoencephalitis was first described over a century ago. This fungal infection is preventable and treatable yet continues to be associated with excessive morbidity and mortality. The largest burden of disease resides in people living with HIV in low-income and middle-income countries. In this group, mortality with the best antifungal induction regimen (7 days of amphotericin B deoxycholate [1·0 mg/kg per day] and flucytosine [100·0 mg/kg per day]) in a clinical trial setting was 24% at 10 weeks. The world is now at an inflection point in terms of recognition, research, and action to address the burden of morbidity and mortality from cryptococcal meningoencephalitis. However, the scope of interventional programmes needs to increase, with particular attention to implementation science that is specific to individual countries. This Review summarises causes of excessive mortality, interventions with proven survival benefit, and gaps in knowledge and practice that contribute to the ongoing high death toll from cryptococcal meningoencephalitis. TRANSLATIONS: For the Vietnamese and Chichewa translations of the abstract see Supplementary Materials section.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharine Elizabeth Stott
- Antimicrobial Pharmacodynamics and Therapeutics, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK; Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, University of Malawi College of Medicine, Blantyre, Malawi.
| | - Angela Loyse
- Institute of Infection and Immunity, St George's University and Hospital, London, UK
| | - Joe N Jarvis
- Botswana-Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana; Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Melanie Alufandika
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, University of Malawi College of Medicine, Blantyre, Malawi
| | | | - Henry C Mwandumba
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, University of Malawi College of Medicine, Blantyre, Malawi; Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Jeremy N Day
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, UK
| | | | - Tihana Bicanic
- Institute of Infection and Immunity, St George's University and Hospital, London, UK
| | - John R Perfect
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - William Hope
- Antimicrobial Pharmacodynamics and Therapeutics, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK
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Lofgren SM, Nicol MR, Kandole TK, Castillo-Mancilla J, Anderson PL, Mpoza E, Tugume L, Bangdiwala AS, Ssebambulidde K, Hullsiek KH, Rhein J, Meya DB, Boulware DR. Short Communication: A Descriptive Analysis of Dried Blood Spot Adherence Testing Among Ugandans with HIV Presenting with Cryptococcal Meningitis. AIDS Res Hum Retroviruses 2021; 37:529-533. [PMID: 33677986 DOI: 10.1089/aid.2020.0202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Early antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation after cryptococcal meningitis increases mortality, and those unmasking cryptococcosis after <2 weeks of ART have higher mortality. However, it is unknown if those presenting as ART experienced are actually adherent to their ART. Unknowingly, restarting ART in persons, who have discontinued ART, may be a fatal iatrogenic error. To evaluate ART adherence in an exploratory analysis, we collected dried blood spots on 44 HIV-infected persons presenting with cryptococcal meningitis. We quantified tenofovir diphosphate (TFV-DP) and lamivudine (3TC) from dried blood spots. We quantified cumulative ART adherence over the preceding 6-8 weeks based on TFV-DP concentrations and adherence over the last few days based on 3TC concentrations. Of 22 ART experienced, 20 (91%) had quantifiable concentrations. Of 18 receiving tenofovir, 15 (83%) had TFV-DP consistent with drug intake of ≥4 doses/week or moderate adherence. With 3TC, 72% (18/22) had detectable levels consistent with adherence over the last 3 days before measurement. Only three ART-experienced subjects were alive and virally suppressed at 4 months (n = 2 on ART for <30 days; n = 1 with undetectable antiretrovirals). Surprisingly, of 22 who reported not receiving ART, 4 (18%) had quantifiable tenofovir. Most ART-experienced subjects were taking their ART with moderate to good adherence with the majority likely having viral resistance given generally at good ART levels, receipt of intensive adherence counseling, and lack of subsequent viral suppression. The World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines recommend adherence counseling with ART continuation and repeat viral loads in 1-3 months before switching to second-line ART. These recommendations are likely inappropriate in those with central nervous system infections given the additional possible harm of central nervous system immune reconstitution syndrome. Further study to evaluate continuation of ART regimens when presenting with cryptococcosis has benefit, with checking blood levels at presentation potentially being a helpful option. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01802385.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah M. Lofgren
- Infectious Disease Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Melanie R. Nicol
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Tadeo K. Kandole
- Infectious Disease Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jose Castillo-Mancilla
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Peter L. Anderson
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Edward Mpoza
- Infectious Disease Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Lillian Tugume
- Infectious Disease Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Ananta S. Bangdiwala
- Division of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | | | - Katherine Huppler Hullsiek
- Division of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Joshua Rhein
- Infectious Disease Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - David B. Meya
- Infectious Disease Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - David R. Boulware
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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27
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Pfavayi LT, Denning DW, Baker S, Sibanda EN, Mutapi F. Determining the burden of fungal infections in Zimbabwe. Sci Rep 2021; 11:13240. [PMID: 34168204 PMCID: PMC8225815 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-92605-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Zimbabwe currently faces several healthcare challenges, most notably HIV and associated infections including tuberculosis (TB), malaria and recently outbreaks of cholera, typhoid fever and COVID-19. Fungal infections, which are also a major public health threat, receive considerably less attention. Consequently, there is dearth of data regarding the burden of fungal diseases in the country. We estimated the burden of fungal diseases in Zimbabwe based on published literature and 'at-risk' populations (HIV/AIDS patients, survivors of pulmonary TB, cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma and patients receiving critical care) using previously described methods. Where there was no data for Zimbabwe, regional, or international data was used. Our study revealed that approximately 14.9% of Zimbabweans suffer from fungal infections annually, with 80% having tinea capitis. The annual incidence of cryptococcal meningitis and Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia in HIV/AIDS were estimated at 41/100,000 and 63/100,000, respectively. The estimated prevalence of recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC) was 2,739/100,000. The estimated burden of fungal diseases in Zimbabwe is high in comparison to other African countries, highlighting the urgent need for increased awareness and surveillance to improve diagnosis and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorraine T. Pfavayi
- grid.4991.50000 0004 1936 8948Nuffield Department of Medicine, Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Old Road Campus, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, OX3 7LG UK ,grid.4305.20000 0004 1936 7988Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, University of Edinburgh, Ashworth Laboratories, King’s Buildings, Charlotte Auerbach Road, Edinburgh, EH9 3FL UK ,grid.4305.20000 0004 1936 7988NIHR Global Health Research Unit Tackling Infections To Benefit Africa (TIBA), University of Edinburgh, Ashworth Laboratories, King’s Buildings, Edinburgh, UK
| | - David W. Denning
- grid.5379.80000000121662407Manchester Fungal Infection Group, The University of Manchester and Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Stephen Baker
- grid.5335.00000000121885934University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, CB2 0AW UK ,grid.5335.00000000121885934Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, CB2 2QQ UK
| | - Elopy N. Sibanda
- Asthma Allergy and Immunology Clinic, Twin Palms Medical Centre, Harare, Zimbabwe ,grid.4305.20000 0004 1936 7988TIBA Zimbabwe, NIHR Global Health Research Unit Tackling Infections To Benefit Africa (TIBA), University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK ,grid.440812.bDepartment of Pathology, National University of Science and Technology (NUST) Medical School, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
| | - Francisca Mutapi
- grid.4305.20000 0004 1936 7988Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, University of Edinburgh, Ashworth Laboratories, King’s Buildings, Charlotte Auerbach Road, Edinburgh, EH9 3FL UK ,grid.4305.20000 0004 1936 7988NIHR Global Health Research Unit Tackling Infections To Benefit Africa (TIBA), University of Edinburgh, Ashworth Laboratories, King’s Buildings, Edinburgh, UK
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28
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Huang SH, Lee CY, Tsai CS, Tsai MS, Liu CE, Hsu WT, Chen HA, Liu WD, Yang CJ, Sun HY, Ko WC, Lu PL, Lee YT, Hung CC. Screening for Cryptococcal Antigenemia and Burden of Cryptococcosis at the Time of HIV Diagnosis: A Retrospective Multicenter Study. Infect Dis Ther 2021; 10:1363-1377. [PMID: 34057690 PMCID: PMC8322196 DOI: 10.1007/s40121-021-00451-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Screening for cryptococcal antigen (CrAg) is recommended for people living with HIV (PLWH) who present with low CD4 lymphocyte counts. Real-world experience is important to identify gaps between the guidelines and clinical practice. We investigated the trends of CrAg testing and prevalence of cryptococcal antigenemia among PLWH at the time of HIV diagnosis and the related mortality in Taiwan from 2009 to 2018. Methods Medical records of newly diagnosed PLWH seeking care at six medical centers around Taiwan between 2009 and 2018 were reviewed. The annual trends of PLWH who had CrAg testing and cryptococcal antigenemia were examined by Cochran-Armitage test. Among PLWH with CD4 < 200 cells/µl, timing of CrAg testing was analyzed for association with 12-month all-cause mortality in Kaplan-Meier plots and in a Cox proportional hazards model after adjustments. Results Among 5372 included PLWH, 1150 (21.4%) presented with baseline CD4 < 100 cells/µl, and this proportion had decreased during the study period [from 108 (29.3%) in 2009 to 93 (22.3%) in 2018 (P = 0.039)]. The overall prevalence of cryptococcal antigenemia was 7.8% among PLWH with CD4 < 100 cells/µl, which remained stable during the 10-year study period (P = 0.356) and was 2.6% among PLWH with CD4 100–199 cells/µl. The uptake of CrAg testing had increased from 65.7% in 2009 to 78.0% in 2018 (P = 0.002) among PLWH with CD4 < 100 cells/µl. Late CrAg testing, defined by 14 days or later after HIV diagnosis, was associated with increased risk of 12-month mortality compared to early CrAg testing (adjusted hazard ratio 2.028, 95% CI 1.109–3.708). Conclusions Burden of cryptococcosis remained high among PLWH with low CD4 lymphocyte counts in Taiwan. Uptake of CrAg screening among late HIV presenters was still suboptimal and delayed. Late CrAg testing was associated with a higher mortality. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40121-021-00451-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung-Hsi Huang
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital Hsin-Chu Branch, Hsin-Chu, Taiwan.,Department of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Yuan Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital and College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chin-Shiang Tsai
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Mao-Song Tsai
- Department of Internal Medicine, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Eng Liu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Changhua Christian Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Ting Hsu
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital Yun-Lin Branch, Douliu, Yun-Lin County, Taiwan
| | - Hong-An Chen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Wang-Da Liu
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, 7 Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Medicine, National Taiwan University Cancer Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Jui Yang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming Chiao-Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Yun Sun
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, 7 Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Chien Ko
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Po-Liang Lu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital and College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Yuan-Ti Lee
- School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Department of Internal Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Ching Hung
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan. .,Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, 7 Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei, Taiwan. .,Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan. .,China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.
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29
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Pullen MF, Hullsiek KH, Rhein J, Musubire AK, Tugume L, Nuwagira E, Abassi M, Ssebambulidde K, Mpoza E, Kiggundu R, Akampurira A, Nabeta HW, Schutz C, Evans EE, Rajasingham R, Skipper CP, Pastick KA, Williams DA, Morawski BM, Bangdiwala AS, Meintjes G, Muzoora C, Meya DB, Boulware DR. Cerebrospinal Fluid Early Fungicidal Activity as a Surrogate Endpoint for Cryptococcal Meningitis Survival in Clinical Trials. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 71:e45-e49. [PMID: 31912875 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciaa016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2019] [Accepted: 01/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In cryptococcal meningitis phase 2 clinical trials, early fungicidal activity (EFA) of Cryptococcus clearance from cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is used as a surrogate endpoint for all-cause mortality. The Food and Drug Administration allows for using surrogate endpoints for accelerated regulatory approval, but EFA as a surrogate endpoint requires further validation. We examined the relationship between rate of CSF Cryptococcus clearance (EFA) and mortality through 18 weeks. METHODS We pooled individual-level CSF data from 3 sequential cryptococcal meningitis clinical trials conducted during 2010-2017. All 738 subjects received amphotericin + fluconazole induction therapy and had serial quantitative CSF cultures. The log10-transformed colony-forming units (CFUs) per mL CSF were analyzed by general linear regression versus day of culture over the first 10 days. RESULTS Mortality through 18 weeks was 37% for EFA > = 0.60 (n = 170), 36% for 0.40-0.59 (n = 182), 39% for 0.30-0.39 (n = 112), 35% for 0.20-0.29 (n = 87), and 50% for those with EFA < 0.20 CFU/mL/day (n = 187). The hazard ratio for 18-week mortality, comparing those with EFA < 0.20 to those with EFA > = 0.20, was 1.60 (95% confidence interval, 1.25, 2.04; P = .002). The lowest EFA group had lower median CD4 T-cell counts (P < .01) and lower proportion of patients with CSF pleocytosis (P < .001). CONCLUSIONS EFA is associated with all-cause mortality in cryptococcal meningitis. An EFA threshold of > = 0.20 log10 CFU/mL/day was associated with similar 18-week mortality (37%) compared to 50% mortality with EFA < 0.20. This EFA threshold may be considered a target for a surrogate endpoint. This builds upon existing studies to validate EFA as a surrogate endpoint.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew F Pullen
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Katherine Huppler Hullsiek
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Joshua Rhein
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA.,Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Abdu K Musubire
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Lillian Tugume
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Edwin Nuwagira
- Department of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Mahsa Abassi
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | | | - Edward Mpoza
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Ruben Kiggundu
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Henry W Nabeta
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Charlotte Schutz
- Wellcome Centre for Infectious Diseases Research in Africa, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, and Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Emily E Evans
- Department of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Radha Rajasingham
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Caleb P Skipper
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Katelyn A Pastick
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Darlisha A Williams
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA.,Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Bozena M Morawski
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Ananta S Bangdiwala
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Graeme Meintjes
- Wellcome Centre for Infectious Diseases Research in Africa, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, and Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Conrad Muzoora
- Department of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - David B Meya
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA.,Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - David R Boulware
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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30
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Chen CH, Li H, Chen HM, Chen YM, Chang YJ, Lin PY, Hsu CW, Tseng PT, Lin KH, Tu YK. Efficacy of induction regimens for cryptococcal meningitis in HIV-infected adults: a systematic review and network meta-analysis. Sci Rep 2021; 11:8565. [PMID: 33883566 PMCID: PMC8060388 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-87726-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcal meningitis (CM) is the most fatal adult meningitis in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). There is no conclusive evidence for the superiority of 1-week amphotericin B deoxycholate (AmphB) + flucytosine (5-FC) regimen over other antifungals in the management of HIV patients with CM (HIV-CM patients). We aimed to evaluate the differences in efficacy and tolerability of different antifungal agents in HIV-CM patients by conducting a current network meta-analysis NMA. Overall, 19 randomized controlled trials were included with 2642 participants. A regimen indicated a possibly lower early mortality rate, namely, AmphB + 5-FC + Azole (OR = 1.1E-12, 95% CIs = 1.3E-41 to 0.06) comparing to AmphB + 5-FC. The current NMA provides evidence that AmphB + 5-FC + Azole are superior to all the investigated treatments for induction regimen in HIV-CM patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang-Hua Chen
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Changhua Christian Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan
- Center for Infection Prevention and Control, Changhua Christian Hospital, Changhua, 500, Taiwan
- National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Rong Hsing Research Center for Translational Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Hua Li
- Institute of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsien-Meng Chen
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Changhua Christian Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Min Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Changhua Christian Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Jun Chang
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics Center, Changhua Christian Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan
| | - Pao-Yen Lin
- Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Wei Hsu
- Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Department of Computer Science and Information Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Ping-Tao Tseng
- WinShine Clinics in Specialty of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Kai-Huang Lin
- Division of Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Changhua Christian Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Kang Tu
- Institute of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.
- Department of Dentistry, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.
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31
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Cryptococcal Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome: From Blood and Cerebrospinal Fluid Biomarkers to Treatment Approaches. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11020095. [PMID: 33514007 PMCID: PMC7912256 DOI: 10.3390/life11020095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) presents as an exaggerated immune reaction that occurs during dysregulated immune restoration in immunocompromised patients in late-stage human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection who have commenced antiretroviral treatments (ART). Virtually any opportunistic pathogen can provoke this type of immune restoration disorder. In this review, we focus on recent developments in the identification of risk factors for Cryptococcal IRIS and on advancements in our understanding of C-IRIS immunopathogenesis. We overview new findings in blood and cerebrospinal fluid which can potentially be useful in the prediction and diagnosis of cryptococcal meningitis IRIS (CM-IRIS). We assess current therapeutic regimens and novel treatment approaches to combat CM-IRIS. We discuss the utility of biomarkers for clinical monitoring and adjusting treatment modalities in acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) patients co-infected with Cryptococcus who have initiated ART.
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32
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Baluku JB, Mugabe P, Mwebaza S, Nakaweesi J, Senyimba C, Opio JP, Mukasa B. Cryptococcal Antigen Screening Among Antiretroviral Therapy-Experienced People With HIV With Viral Load Nonsuppression in Rural Uganda. Open Forum Infect Dis 2021; 8:ofab010. [PMID: 33604402 PMCID: PMC7880263 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofab010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The World Health Organization recommends screening for the cryptococcal antigen (CrAg), a predictor of cryptococcal meningitis, among antiretroviral therapy (ART)-naïve people with HIV (PWH) with CD4 <100 cells/mm3. CrAg positivity among ART-experienced PWH with viral load (VL) nonsuppression is not well established, yet high VLs are associated with cryptococcal meningitis independent of CD4 count. We compared the frequency and positivity yield of CrAg screening among ART-experienced PWH with VL nonsuppression and ART-naïve PWH with CD4 <100 cells/mm3 attending rural public health facilities in Uganda. Methods We reviewed routinely generated programmatic reports on cryptococcal disease screening from 104 health facilities in 8 rural districts of Uganda from January 2018 to July 2019. A lateral flow assay (IMMY CrAg) was used to screen for cryptococcal disease. PWH were eligible for CrAg screening if they were ART-naïve with CD4 <100 cell/mm3 or ART-experienced with an HIV VL >1000 copies/mL after at least 6 months of ART. We used Pearson's chi-square test to compare the frequency and yield of CrAg screening. Results Of 71 860 ART-experienced PWH, 7210 (10.0%) were eligible for CrAg screening. Among 15 417 ART-naïve PWH, 5719 (37.1%) had a CD4 count measurement, of whom 937 (16.4%) were eligible for CrAg screening. The frequency of CrAg screening was 11.5% (830/7210) among eligible ART-experienced PWH compared with 95.1% (891/937) of eligible ART- naïve PWH (P < .001). The CrAg positivity yield was 10.5% among eligible ART-experienced PWH compared with 13.8% among eligible ART-naïve PWH (P = .035). Conclusions The low frequency and high positivity yield of CrAg screening among ART-experienced PWH with VL nonsuppression suggest a need for VL- directed CrAg screening in this population. Studies are needed to evaluate the cost-effectiveness and impact of CrAg screening and fluconazole prophylaxis on the outcomes of ART-experienced PWH with VL nonsuppression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pallen Mugabe
- Directorate of Programs Mildmay Uganda, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Shem Mwebaza
- Directorate of Programs Mildmay Uganda, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | - Joel Peter Opio
- Division of Global HIV and TB, US centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Kampala, Uganda
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33
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Xu XL, Zhao T, Harypursat V, Lu YQ, Li Y, Chen YK. Asymptomatic cryptococcal antigenemia in HIV-infected patients: a review of recent studies. Chin Med J (Engl) 2020; 133:2859-2866. [PMID: 33273336 PMCID: PMC10631590 DOI: 10.1097/cm9.0000000000001134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of asymptomatic cryptococcal antigenemia (ACA) in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infected individuals has been observed to be elevated. The prevalence of ACA ranges from 1.3% to 13%, with different rates of prevalence in various regions of the world. We reviewed studies conducted internationally, and also referred to two established expert consensus guideline documents published in China, and we have concluded that Chinese HIV-infected patients should undergo cryptococcal antigen screening when CD4 T-cell counts fall below 200 cells/μL and that the recommended treatment regimen for these patients follow current World Health Organization guidelines, although it is likely that this recommendation may change in the future. Early screening and optimized preemptive treatment for ACA is likely to help decrease the incidence of cryptococcosis, and is lifesaving. Further studies are warranted to explore issues related to the optimal management of ACA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Lei Xu
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Chongqing Public Health Medical Center, Chongqing 400036, China
| | - Ting Zhao
- Division of Science and Education, Chongqing Public Health Medical Center, Chongqing 400036, China
| | - Vijay Harypursat
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Chongqing Public Health Medical Center, Chongqing 400036, China
| | - Yan-Qiu Lu
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Chongqing Public Health Medical Center, Chongqing 400036, China
| | - Yan Li
- Public Health College, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563000, China
| | - Yao-Kai Chen
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Chongqing Public Health Medical Center, Chongqing 400036, China
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Chesdachai S, Engen NW, Rhein J, Tugume L, Kiiza Kandole T, Abassi M, Ssebambulidde K, Kasibante J, Williams DA, Skipper CP, Hullsiek KH, Musubire AK, Rajasingham R, Meya DB, Boulware DR. Baseline Serum C-Reactive Protein Level Predicts Mortality in Cryptococcal Meningitis. Open Forum Infect Dis 2020; 7:ofaa530. [PMID: 33335936 PMCID: PMC7727340 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofaa530] [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: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND C-reactive protein (CRP) is an acute phase protein produced by the liver in response to systemic inflammation. CRP is a helpful surrogate biomarker used for following the progression and resolution of infection. We aimed to determine the association of baseline CRP level and the temporal change in CRP over time with cryptococcal meningitis outcome. METHODS We reviewed 168 prospectively enrolled HIV-infected Ugandans with confirmed first-episode cryptococcal meningitis. Baseline plasma CRP collected within 5 days of meningitis diagnosis was categorized into quartiles. We compared baseline CRP with 18-week survival using time-to-event analysis. RESULTS Of 168 participants, the baseline first quartile of serum CRP was <29.0 mg/L, second quartile 29.0-49.5 mg/L, third quartile 49.6-83.6 mg/L, and fourth quartile >83.6 mg/L. Baseline CD4 count, HIV viral load, and cerebrospinal fluid results did not differ by CRP quartile. Participants with CRP >49.5 mg/L more likely presented with Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) <15 (P = .03). The 18-week mortality rate was 55% (46/84) in the highest 2 quartile CRP groups (>49.5 mg/L), 41% (17/42) in the mid-range CRP group (29.0-49.5 mg/L), and 14% (6/42) in the low-CRP group (<29.0 mg/L; P < .001). After adjustment for possible confounding factors including GCS <15, CRP remained significantly associated with mortality (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.084 per 10 mg/L; 95% CI, 1.031-1.139; P = .0016). CONCLUSIONS Higher baseline CRP is associated with increased mortality in HIV-infected individuals with first-episode cryptococcal meningitis. CRP could be a surrogate marker for undiagnosed coinfections or may reflect immune dysregulation, leading to worse outcomes in persons with advanced AIDS and concomitant cryptococcal meningitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Supavit Chesdachai
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA,Correspondence: Supavit Chesdachai, MD, 420 Delaware Street SE, MMC 284, Minneapolis, MN 55455 ()
| | - Nicole W Engen
- Division of Biostatistics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Joshua Rhein
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Lillian Tugume
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Tadeo Kiiza Kandole
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Mahsa Abassi
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Kenneth Ssebambulidde
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - John Kasibante
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Darlisha A Williams
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Caleb P Skipper
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Kathy H Hullsiek
- Division of Biostatistics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Abdu K Musubire
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Radha Rajasingham
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - David B Meya
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - David R Boulware
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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35
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Mpoza E, Rajasingham R, Tugume L, Rhein J, Nabaggala MS, Ssewanyana I, Nyegenye W, Kushemererwa GE, Mulema V, Kalamya J, Kiyaga C, Kabanda J, Ssali M, Boulware DR, Meya DB. Cryptococcal Antigenemia in Human Immunodeficiency Virus Antiretroviral Therapy-Experienced Ugandans With Virologic Failure. Clin Infect Dis 2020; 71:1726-1731. [PMID: 31679007 PMCID: PMC7755088 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciz1069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Detectable serum or plasma cryptococcal antigen (CrAg) precedes symptomatic cryptococcal meningitis. The World Health Organization recommends CrAg screening for human immunodeficiency virus-positive persons with CD4 count <100 cells/μL initiating antiretroviral therapy (ART). However, an increasing proportion of patients with cryptococcosis are now ART experienced. Whether CrAg screening is cost-effective in those with virologic failure is unknown. METHODS We retrospectively performed nationwide plasma CrAg testing among ART-experienced Ugandan adults with virologic failure (≥1000 copies/mL) using leftover plasma after viral load testing during September 2017-January 2018. For those who were CrAg positive, we obtained ART history, meningitis occurrence, and 6-month survival via medical records review. RESULTS Among 1186 subjects with virologic failure, 35 (3.0%) were CrAg positive with median ART duration of 41 months (interquartile range, 10-84 months). Among 25 subjects with 6-month outcomes, 16 (64%) survived, 7 (28%) died, and 2 (8%) were lost. One survivor had suffered cryptococcal meningitis 2 years prior. Two others developed cryptococcal meningitis and survived. Five survivors were known to have received fluconazole. Thus, meningitis-free survival at 6 months was 61% (14/23). Overall, 91% (32/35) of CrAg-positive persons had viral load ≥5000 copies/mL compared with 64% (735/1151) of CrAg-negative persons (odds ratio, 6.0 [95% confidence interval, 1.8-19.8]; P = .001). CrAg prevalence was 4.2% (32/768) among those with viral loads ≥5000 copies/mL and 0.7% (3/419) among those with viral loads <5000 copies/mL. CONCLUSIONS In addition to the CD4 threshold of <100 cells/μL, reflexive CrAg screening should be considered in persons failing ART in Uganda with viral loads ≥5000 copies/mL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward Mpoza
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Radha Rajasingham
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Lillian Tugume
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joshua Rhein
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Julius Kalamya
- Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention - Uganda, Entebbe, Uganda
| | | | - Joseph Kabanda
- Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention - Uganda, Entebbe, Uganda
| | | | - David R Boulware
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - David B Meya
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
- School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
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36
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Eneh PC, Hullsiek KH, Kiiza D, Rhein J, Meya DB, Boulware DR, Nicol MR. Prevalence and nature of potential drug-drug interactions among hospitalized HIV patients presenting with suspected meningitis in Uganda. BMC Infect Dis 2020; 20:572. [PMID: 32758158 PMCID: PMC7405463 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-020-05296-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Management of co-infections including cryptococcal meningitis, tuberculosis and other opportunistic infections in persons living with HIV can lead to complex polypharmacotherapy and increased susceptibility to drug-drug interactions (DDIs). Here we characterize the frequency and types of potential DDIs (pDDIs) in hospitalized HIV patients presenting with suspected cryptococcal or tuberculous meningitis. Methods In a retrospective review of three cryptococcal meningitis trials between 2010 and 2017 in Kampala, Uganda, medications received over hospitalization were documented and pDDI events were assessed. IBM Micromedex DRUGDEX® online drug reference system was used to identify and describe potential interactions as either contraindicated, major, moderate or minor. For antiretroviral DDIs, the Liverpool Drug Interactions Checker from the University of Liverpool was also used to further describe interactions observed. Results In 1074 patients with suspected meningitis, pDDIs were present in 959 (overall prevalence = 89.3%) during the analyzed 30 day window. In total, 278 unique interacting drug pairs were identified resulting in 4582 pDDI events. Of all patients included in this study there was a mean frequency of 4.27 pDDIs per patient. Of the 4582 pDDI events, 11.3% contraindicated, 66.4% major, 17.4% moderate and 5% minor pDDIs were observed. Among all pDDIs identified, the most prevalent drugs implicated were fluconazole (58.4%), co-trimoxazole (25.7%), efavirenz (15.6%) and rifampin (10.2%). Twenty-one percent of the contraindicated pDDIs and 27% of the major ones involved an antiretroviral drug. Increased likelihood of QT interval prolongation was the most frequent potential clinical outcome. Dissonance in drug interaction checkers was noted requiring clinicians to consult more than one database in making clinical decisions about drug combinations. Conclusions The overall prevalence of pDDIs in this population is high. An understanding of drug combinations likely to result in undesired clinical outcomes, such as QT interval prolongation, is paramount. This is especially important in resource limited settings where availability of therapeutic drug monitoring and laboratory follow-up are inconsistent. Adequate quantification of the increased likelihood of adverse clinical outcomes from multiple drug-drug interactions of the same kind in a single patient is needed to aid clinical decisions in this setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prosperity C Eneh
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | | | - Daniel Kiiza
- Infectious Disease Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joshua Rhein
- Infectious Disease Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - David B Meya
- Infectious Disease Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.,Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA.,College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - David R Boulware
- Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Melanie R Nicol
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA.
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37
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A pragmatic approach to managing antiretroviral therapy-experienced patients diagnosed with HIV-associated cryptococcal meningitis: impact of antiretroviral therapy adherence and duration. AIDS 2020; 34:1425-1428. [PMID: 32590438 PMCID: PMC7473821 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000002556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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38
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Mortality After Cryptococcal Infection in the Modern Antiretroviral Therapy Era. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2020; 82:81-87. [PMID: 31408451 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence of cryptococcosis in people living with HIV (PLWH) in the developed world has decreased considerably in the modern antiretroviral therapy (ART) era. Although early mortality of PLWH with opportunistic infections is well understood, overall mortality has not been previously evaluated. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study of cryptococcosis in PLWH from January 1, 2002, to July 1, 2017. Data were also evaluated before and after 2008 to evaluate the possible effect of modern ART on outcomes. Death date was obtained from the hospital's medical informatics database and the Social Security Death Index. Participants were grouped as survivors, early-mortality (death <90 days), and late-mortality (death ≥90 days) individuals. RESULTS We reviewed 105 PLWH with cryptococcosis, with 55 survivors (52.4%), 17 early-mortality (16.2%), and 33 late-mortality individuals (31.4%). Overall, mortality was 47.6% (n = 50) with a median follow-up of 3.7 years (interquartile range 1.1, 8.1 years). Late-mortality individuals were less likely to be virally suppressed at the last observation compared with survivors (24% vs 62%, P < 0.001). Individuals diagnosed in the modern ART era had significantly lower mortality (hazard ratio 0.5, confidence interval: 0.2 to 0.8) and were more likely to be virally suppressed at the last observation (57% vs 29%, P = 0.003). Individuals with government-provided insurance had a higher mortality compared to those with private insurance (hazard ratio 2.8, confidence interval: 1.1 to 7.2, P = 0.013). CONCLUSIONS Despite improvements in ART, PLWH have high mortality after cryptococcal infection that persists beyond their initial hospitalization. Lower mortality was associated with increased HIV viral suppression and private insurance in the modern ART era.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW HIV-associated cryptococcal meningitis remains a significant contributor to AIDS-related mortality despite widened access to antiretroviral therapy. Even in clinical trial settings 10-week mortality is roughly 40%. A number of important clinical trials have either recently concluded or are actively recruiting. RECENT FINDINGS Global burden of disease estimates suggest cryptococcal meningitis causes 181 100 deaths annually. Screening blood for cryptococcal antigen in HIV-infected individuals with CD4 cell counts less than 100 cells/μl and preemptive antifungal treatment for those with detectable cryptococcal antigen reduces the incidence of cryptococcal meningitis and is likely to reduce mortality. Cryptococcal meningitis treatment with conventional 14-day courses of amphotericin are associated with high toxicity and mortality and can be reduced to 7 days if given alongside flucytosine. Flucytosine is a significantly superior adjunct to amphotericin treatment compared with fluconazole. In settings without amphotericin B dual oral antifungal combinations of flucytosine and fluconazole offer an effective alternative treatment. A single, high-dose of liposomal amphotericin is effective at reducing fungal burden and is being tested in a phase III trial. SUMMARY Recently completed and ongoing clinical trials are increasing our understanding of how to optimize induction therapy for cryptococcal meningitis. Advocacy efforts are needed to broaden access to amphotericin formulations and flucytosine.
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40
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Govender NP, Meintjes G, Mangena P, Nel J, Potgieter S, Reddy D, Rabie H, Wilson D, Black J, Boulware D, Boyles T, Chiller T, Dawood H, Dlamini S, Harrison TS, Ive P, Jarvis J, Karstaedt A, Madua MC, Menezes C, Moosa MYS, Motlekar Z, Shroufi A, Stacey SL, Tsitsi M, van Cutsem G, Variava E, Venter M, Wake R. Southern African HIV Clinicians Society guideline for the prevention, diagnosis and management of cryptococcal disease among HIV-infected persons: 2019 update. South Afr J HIV Med 2019; 20:1030. [PMID: 32201629 PMCID: PMC7081625 DOI: 10.4102/sajhivmed.v20i1.1030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2019] [Accepted: 09/12/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Nelesh P Govender
- National Institute for Communicable Diseases, a Division of the National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg, South Africa
- School of Pathology, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Division of Medical Microbiology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Graeme Meintjes
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Phetho Mangena
- Department of Medicine, Polokwane Hospital, Polokwane, South Africa
| | - Jeremy Nel
- Helen Joseph Hospital, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Samantha Potgieter
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Denasha Reddy
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Helena Rabie
- Department of Paediatrics, Tygerberg Hospital, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Douglas Wilson
- Department of Internal Medicine, Edendale Hospital, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - John Black
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Livingstone Hospital, Port Elizabeth, South Africa
| | - David Boulware
- Department of Medicine, Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Translational Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, United States
| | - Tom Boyles
- Anova Health Institute, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Tom Chiller
- Mycotic Diseases Branch, US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, United States
| | - Halima Dawood
- Department of Medicine, Grey's Hospital, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
- Caprisa, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - Sipho Dlamini
- Division of Infectious Diseases and HIV Medicine, Department of Medicine, Groote Schuur Hospital, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Thomas S Harrison
- Centre for Global Health, Institute of Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Prudence Ive
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Helen Joseph Hospital, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Joseph Jarvis
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alan Karstaedt
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Hospital, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Matamela C Madua
- Department of Medicine, Rob Ferreira Hospital, Mbombela, South Africa
| | - Colin Menezes
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Mahomed-Yunus S Moosa
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Zaaheera Motlekar
- Department of Medicine, Kimberley Provincial Hospital, Kimberley, South Africa
| | - Amir Shroufi
- Mycotic Diseases Branch, US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, United States
| | - Sarah Lynn Stacey
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Internal Medicine, Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Merika Tsitsi
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Gilles van Cutsem
- Southern Africa Medical Unit, Médecins Sans Frontières, Cape Town, South Africa
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Ebrahim Variava
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Medicine, Tshepong Hospital, Klerksdorp, South Africa
| | - Michelle Venter
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Rachel Wake
- National Institute for Communicable Diseases, a Division of the National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Centre for Global Health, Institute of Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, United Kingdom
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Ellis J, Bangdiwala AS, Cresswell FV, Rhein J, Nuwagira E, Ssebambulidde K, Tugume L, Rajasingham R, Bridge SC, Muzoora C, Meya DB, Boulware DR. The Changing Epidemiology of HIV-Associated Adult Meningitis, Uganda 2015-2017. Open Forum Infect Dis 2019; 6:ofz419. [PMID: 31660375 PMCID: PMC6810358 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofz419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2019] [Accepted: 09/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Central nervous system (CNS) infections remain a major public health problem in Sub-Saharan Africa, causing 15%–25% of AIDS-related deaths. With widespread availability of antiretroviral therapy (ART) and the introduction of improved diagnostics, the epidemiology of infectious meningitis is evolving. Methods We prospectively enrolled adults presenting with HIV-associated meningitis in Kampala and Mbarara, Uganda, from March 2015 to September 2017. Participants had a structured, stepwise diagnostic algorithm performed of blood cryptococcal antigen (CrAg), CSF CrAg, Xpert MTB/RIF for tuberculous (TB) meningitis (TBM), Biofire multiplex polymerase chain reaction, and traditional microscopy and cultures. Results We screened 842 consecutive adults with HIV presenting with suspected meningitis: 57% men, median age 35 years, median CD4 26 cells/mcL, and 55% presented on ART. Overall, 60.5% (509/842) were diagnosed with first-episode cryptococcal meningitis and 7.4% (62/842) with second episode. Definite/probable TB meningitis was the primary diagnosis in 6.9% (58/842); 5.3% (n = 45) had microbiologically confirmed (definite) TB meningitis. An additional 7.8% (66/842) did not meet the diagnostic threshold for definite/probable TBM but received empiric TBM therapy. Bacterial and viral meningitis were diagnosed in 1.3% (11/842) and 0.7% (6/842), respectively. The adoption of a cost-effective stepwise diagnostic algorithm allowed 79% (661/842) to have a confirmed microbiological diagnosis at an average cost of $44 per person. Conclusions Despite widespread ART availability, Cryptococcus remains the leading cause of HIV-associated meningitis. The second most common etiology was TB meningitis, treated in 14.7% overall. The increased proportion of microbiologically confirmed TBM cases reflects the impact of new improved molecular diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayne Ellis
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.,Hospital for Tropical Diseases, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | - Fiona V Cresswell
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.,Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Joshua Rhein
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.,University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Edwin Nuwagira
- Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | | | - Lillian Tugume
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Sarah C Bridge
- University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA.,Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Conrad Muzoora
- Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - David B Meya
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.,University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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Rhein J, Huppler Hullsiek K, Tugume L, Nuwagira E, Mpoza E, Evans EE, Kiggundu R, Pastick KA, Ssebambulidde K, Akampurira A, Williams DA, Bangdiwala AS, Abassi M, Musubire AK, Nicol MR, Muzoora C, Meya DB, Boulware DR. Adjunctive sertraline for HIV-associated cryptococcal meningitis: a randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blind phase 3 trial. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2019; 19:843-851. [PMID: 31345462 PMCID: PMC7041360 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(19)30127-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2018] [Revised: 02/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Identifying new antifungals for cryptococcal meningitis is a priority given the inadequacy of current therapy. Sertraline has previously shown in vitro and in vivo activity against cryptococcus. We aimed to assess the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of adjunctive sertraline in adults with HIV-associated cryptococcal meningitis compared with placebo. METHODS In this double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial, we recruited HIV-positive adults with cryptococcal meningitis from two hospitals in Uganda. Participants were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive standard therapy with 7-14 days of intravenous amphotericin B (0·7-1·0 mg/kg per day) and oral fluconazole (starting at 800 mg/day) with either adjunctive sertraline or placebo. Sertraline was administered orally or via nasogastric tube at a dose of 400 mg/day for 2 weeks, followed by 200 mg/day for 12 weeks, then tapered off over 3 weeks. The primary endpoint was 18-week survival, analysed by intention-to-treat. This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT01802385. FINDINGS Between March 9, 2015, and May 29, 2017, we screened 842 patients with suspected meningitis and enrolled 460 of a planned 550 participants, at which point the trial was stopped for futility. Three patients in the sertraline group and three patients in the placebo group were lost to follow-up and therefore discontinued before study end. At 18 weeks, 120 (52%) of 229 patients in the sertraline group and 106 (46%) of 231 patients in the placebo group had died (hazard ratio 1·21, 95% CI 0·93-1·57; p=0·15). The fungal clearance rate from cerebrospinal fluid was similar between groups (0·43 -log10 CFU/mL per day [95% CI 0·37-0·50] in the sertraline group vs 0·47 -log10 CFU/mL per day [0·40-0·54] in the placebo group; p=0·59), as was occurrence of grade 4 or 5 adverse events (72 [31%] of 229 vs 75 [32%] of 231; p=0·98), most of which were associated with amphotericin B toxicity. INTERPRETATION Sertraline did not reduce mortality and should not be used to treat patients with HIV-associated cryptococcal meningitis. The reasons for sertraline inactivity appear to be multifactorial and might be associated with insufficient duration of therapeutic sertraline concentrations. FUNDING National Institutes of Health and Medical Research Council, Wellcome Trust.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Rhein
- University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA,Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Lillian Tugume
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Edwin Nuwagira
- Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Edward Mpoza
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Emily E. Evans
- Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Reuben Kiggundu
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Katelyn A. Pastick
- University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA,Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | - Darlisha A. Williams
- University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA,Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Mahsa Abassi
- University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA,Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Abdu K. Musubire
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Conrad Muzoora
- Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - David B. Meya
- University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA,Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda,School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
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43
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Skipper C, Abassi M, Boulware DR. Diagnosis and Management of Central Nervous System Cryptococcal Infections in HIV-Infected Adults. J Fungi (Basel) 2019; 5:jof5030065. [PMID: 31330959 PMCID: PMC6787675 DOI: 10.3390/jof5030065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Revised: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcal meningitis persists as a significant source of morbidity and mortality in persons with HIV/AIDS, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Despite increasing access to antiretrovirals, persons presenting with advanced HIV disease remains common, and Cryptococcus remains the most frequent etiology of adult meningitis. We performed a literature review and herein present the most up-to-date information on the diagnosis and management of cryptococcosis. Recent advances have dramatically improved the accessibility of timely and affordable diagnostics. The optimal initial antifungal management has been newly updated after the completion of a landmark clinical trial. Beyond antifungals, the control of intracranial pressure and mitigation of toxicities remain hallmarks of effective treatment. Cryptococcal meningitis continues to present challenging complications and continued research is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caleb Skipper
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
| | - Mahsa Abassi
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - David R Boulware
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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44
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Farel CE, Dennis AM. Why Everyone (Almost) with HIV Needs to Be on Treatment: A Review of the Critical Data. Infect Dis Clin North Am 2019; 33:663-679. [PMID: 31248703 DOI: 10.1016/j.idc.2019.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Since 2014, a consensus of landmark studies has justified starting antiretroviral therapy (ART) regardless of CD4 count. The evidence for immediate and universal ART is strong, clearly showing individual and population-level benefits, and is supported by all major guidelines groups. Altogether, improvements in ART and recognition of its clinical and epidemiologic benefits justify near-universal ART, preferably as soon after the diagnosis of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) as possible. Case-based discussions provide a framework to explore the evidence behind the current recommendation for ART for all HIV-positive persons and specific scenarios are discussed in which ART initiation may be delayed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire E Farel
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 130 Mason Farm Road, CB# 7030, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
| | - Ann M Dennis
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 130 Mason Farm Road, CB# 7030, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
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45
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Cryptococcal Meningitis Diagnostics and Screening in the Era of Point-of-Care Laboratory Testing. J Clin Microbiol 2019; 57:JCM.01238-18. [PMID: 30257903 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.01238-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Accepted: 09/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the past ten years, standard diagnostics for cryptococcal meningitis in HIV-infected persons have evolved from culture to India ink to detection of cryptococcal antigen (CrAg), with the recent development and distribution of a point-of-care lateral flow assay. This assay is highly sensitive and specific in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), but is also sensitive in the blood to detect CrAg prior to meningitis symptoms. CrAg screening of HIV-infected persons in the blood prior to development of fulminant meningitis and preemptive treatment for CrAg-positive persons are recommended by the World Health Organization and many national HIV guidelines. Thus, CrAg testing is occurring more widely, especially in resource-limited laboratory settings. CrAg titer predicts meningitis and death and could be used in the future to customize therapy according to burden of infection.
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46
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Abassi M, Rhein J, Meya DB, Boulware DR. Cryptococcal Disease in the Era of "Test and Treat": Is There Cause for Concern? Open Forum Infect Dis 2017; 5:ofx274. [PMID: 29372172 PMCID: PMC5777480 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofx274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2017] [Accepted: 12/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Treatment of cryptococcosis requires deferred initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART). Early ART initiation may be detrimental in the context of cryptococcal infection by increasing the risk of immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS). We present 3 cases where early ART initiation in the presence of unrecognized cryptococcal disease had fatal outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahsa Abassi
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Kampala, Uganda.,University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Joshua Rhein
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Kampala, Uganda.,University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - David B Meya
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Kampala, Uganda.,University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota.,School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
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