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Harney BL, Sacks-Davis R, Traeger M, van Santen DK, Wilkinson AL, Asselin J, Fairley CK, Roth N, Bloch M, Matthews G, Donovan B, Guy R, Hellard ME, Doyle JS. Annual hepatitis C testing and positive tests among gay and bisexual men in Australia from 2016 to 2022: a serial cross-sectional analysis of sentinel surveillance data. Sex Transm Infect 2024; 100:295-301. [PMID: 38902028 PMCID: PMC11287637 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2024-056175] [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: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Guidelines recommend annual hepatitis C virus (HCV) testing for gay and bisexual men (GBM) with HIV and GBM prescribed HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). However, there is a limited understanding of HCV testing among GBM. We aimed to examine trends in HCV testing and positivity from 2016 to 2022. METHODS Using sentinel surveillance data, we examined the proportion of GBM with at least one test and the proportion with a positive test in each year for HCV antibody testing among GBM with no previous HCV positive test, HCV RNA testing among GBM with a positive antibody test but no previous positive RNA test (naïve RNA testing), and HCV RNA testing among people who had a previous RNA positive test and a subsequent negative test (RNA follow-up testing). Trends were examined using logistic regression from 2016 to 2019 and 2020 to 2022. RESULTS Among GBM with HIV, from 2016 to 2019 antibody testing was stable averaging 55% tested annually. Declines were observed for both naïve HCV RNA testing (75.4%-41.4%: p<0.001) and follow-up HCV RNA testing (70.1%-44.5%: p<0.001). Test positivity declined for HCV antibody tests (2.0%-1.3%: p=0.001), HCV RNA naïve tests (75.4%-41.4%: p<0.001) and HCV RNA follow-up tests (11.3%-3.3%: p=0.001). There were minimal or no significant trends from 2020 to 2022.Among GBM prescribed PrEP, antibody testing declined from 2016 to 2019 (79.4%-69.4%: p<0.001) and was stable from 2020 to 2022. Naïve and follow-up HCV RNA testing was stable with an average of 55% and 60% tested each year, respectively. From 2016-2019, the proportion positive from HCV RNA naïve tests declined (44.1%-27.5%: p<0.046) with no significant change thereafter. Positive follow-up HCV RNA tests fluctuated with no or one new positive test among this group in most years. CONCLUSION The proportion of GBM with positive HCV tests has declined, however a substantial proportion are not tested annually. A renewed focus on HCV testing, and treatment where required, is warranted to achieve HCV elimination among GBM in Australia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brendan L Harney
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Alfred Health and Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rachel Sacks-Davis
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michael Traeger
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Daniela K van Santen
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Anna L Wilkinson
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Christopher K Fairley
- Central Cllinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Norm Roth
- Prahran Market Clinic, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mark Bloch
- Holdsworth House Medical Clinic, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Gail Matthews
- The Kirby Institute, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
- St Vincent's Hospital Sydney, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Basil Donovan
- The Kirby Institute, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
- Sydney Sexual Health Centre, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rebecca Guy
- The Kirby Institute, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Margaret E Hellard
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Alfred Health and Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Joseph S Doyle
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Alfred Health and Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Gomez SE, Dudum R, Rodriguez F. Inequities in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease prevention. Prog Cardiovasc Dis 2024; 84:43-50. [PMID: 38734044 PMCID: PMC11176018 DOI: 10.1016/j.pcad.2024.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
Atherosclerotic cardiovascular (CV) disease (ASCVD) prevention encompasses interventions across the lifecourse: from primordial to primary and secondary prevention. Primordial prevention begins in childhood and involves the promotion of ideal CV health (CVH) via optimizing physical activity, body mass index, blood glucose levels, total cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and sleep while minimizing tobacco use. Primary and secondary prevention of ASCVD thereafter centers around mitigating ASCVD risk factors via medical therapy and lifestyle interventions. Disparities in optimal preventive efforts exist among historically marginalized groups in each of these three prongs of ASCVD prevention. Children and adults with a high burden of social determinants of health also face inequity in preventive measures. Inadequate screening, risk factor management and prescription of preventive therapeutics permeate the care of certain groups, especially women, Black, and Hispanic individuals in the United States. Beyond this, individuals belonging to historically marginalized groups also are much more likely to experience other ASCVD risk-enhancing factors, placing them at higher risk for ASCVD over their lifetime. These disparities translate to worse outcomes, with higher rates of ASCVD and CV mortality among these groups. Possible solutions to promoting equity involve community-based youth lifestyle interventions, improved risk-factor screening, and increasing accessibility to healthcare resources and novel preventive diagnostics and therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia E Gomez
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine and Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Ramzi Dudum
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine and Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Fatima Rodriguez
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine and Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States.
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van den Elshout MAM, Wijstma ES, Boyd A, Jongen VW, Coyer L, Anderson PL, Davidovich U, de Vries HJC, Prins M, Schim van der Loeff MF, Hoornenborg E. Sexual behaviour and incidence of sexually transmitted infections among men who have sex with men (MSM) using daily and event-driven pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP): Four-year follow-up of the Amsterdam PrEP (AMPrEP) demonstration project cohort. PLoS Med 2024; 21:e1004328. [PMID: 38718068 PMCID: PMC11111007 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1004328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND An increasing number of countries are currently implementing or scaling-up HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) care. With the introduction of PrEP, there was apprehension that condom use would decline and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) would increase. To inform sexual health counselling and STI screening programmes, we aimed to study sexual behaviour and STI incidence among men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women who use long-term daily or event-driven PrEP. METHODS AND FINDINGS The Amsterdam PrEP demonstration project (AMPrEP) was a prospective, closed cohort study, providing oral daily PrEP and event-driven PrEP to MSM and transgender women from 2015 to 2020. Participants could choose their PrEP regimen and could switch at each three-monthly visit. STI testing occurred at and, upon request, in-between 3-monthly study visits. We assessed changes in numbers of sex partners and condomless anal sex (CAS) acts with casual partners over time using negative binomial regression, adjusted for age. We assessed HIV incidence and changes in incidence rates (IRs) of any STI (i.e., chlamydia, gonorrhoea, or infectious syphilis) and individual STIs over time using Poisson regression, adjusted for age and testing frequency. A total of 367 participants (365 MSM) commenced PrEP and were followed for a median 3.9 years (interquartile range [IQR] = 3.4-4.0). Median age was 40 years (IQR = 32-48), 315 participants (85.8%) self-declared ethnicity as white and 280 (76.3%) had a university or university of applied sciences degree. Overall median number of sex partners (past 3 months) was 13 (IQR = 6-26) and decreased per additional year on PrEP (adjusted rate ratio [aRR] = 0.86/year, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.83-0.88). Overall median number of CAS acts with casual partners (past 3 months) was 10 (IQR = 3-20.5) and also decreased (aRR = 0.92/year, 95% CI = 0.88-0.97). We diagnosed any STI in 1,092 consultations during 1,258 person years, resulting in an IR of 87/100 person years (95% CI = 82-92). IRs of any STI did not increase over time for daily PrEP or event-driven PrEP users. Two daily PrEP users, and no event-driven PrEP users, were diagnosed with HIV during their first year on PrEP. Study limitations include censoring follow-up due to COVID-19 measures and an underrepresentation of younger, non-white, practically educated, and transgender individuals. CONCLUSIONS In this prospective cohort with a comparatively long follow-up period of 4 years, we observed very low HIV incidence and decreases in the numbers of casual sex partners and CAS acts over time. Although the STI incidence was high, it did not increase over time. TRIAL REGISTRATION The study was registered at the Netherlands Trial Register (NL5413) https://www.onderzoekmetmensen.nl/en/trial/22706.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eline S. Wijstma
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Anders Boyd
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Stichting hiv monitoring, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Institute for Immunology and Infectious Diseases (AII), Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Department of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Vita W. Jongen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Stichting hiv monitoring, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Liza Coyer
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Peter L. Anderson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Udi Davidovich
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Social Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Henry J. C. de Vries
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Institute for Immunology and Infectious Diseases (AII), Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Department of Dermatology, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Maria Prins
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Institute for Immunology and Infectious Diseases (AII), Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Department of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Maarten F. Schim van der Loeff
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Institute for Immunology and Infectious Diseases (AII), Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Department of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Elske Hoornenborg
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Politi J, Donat M, Guerras JM, Ayerdi O, Palma D, García JN, Barrio G, Belza MJ. Gaps in HIV and Hepatitis C Testing Among 3486 HIV-Negative Men Who have Sex with Men in Spain in the Era of Highly Effective Antiviral Therapies. J Community Health 2024; 49:139-155. [PMID: 37561245 DOI: 10.1007/s10900-023-01259-9] [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] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
High uptake of HIV and hepatitis C (HCV) testing in Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) is needed to interrupt transmission. The objective was to identify subgroups with increased probability of lack of testing among HIV-negative GBMSM in Spain. Cross-sectional study including 3486 HIV-negative GBMSM attending prevention facilities in Madrid and Barcelona, 2018-2020. Data came from self-administered online sociodemographic, health, and risk behaviors questionnaires. Outcomes were lack of HCV (lifetime) and HIV (lifetime, last year) testing. Crude and adjusted prevalences and prevalence ratios were assessed for each outcome using negative binomial regression models. Lifetime lack of HIV and HCV testing prevalence was 6.3% and 35.8%, respectively, while lack of HIV testing in the last year was 22.4%. Prevalences were also substantial in GBMSM with high-risk behaviors. After sociodemographic adjustment, the highest probability of lack of HCV testing (lifetime) and HIV (last year) was among GBMSM with insufficient viral hepatitis knowledge, no history of STI, or HCV (or HIV) testing, aged < 25, non-outness about sex life with men, and less high-risk behaviors. Lack of HCV (lifetime) and HIV testing (last year) among HIV-negative GBMSM in Spain is still high, despite high-risk behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julieta Politi
- Escuela Nacional de Sanidad, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Av. Monforte de Lemos, 5, 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Donat
- CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan Miguel Guerras
- Escuela Nacional de Sanidad, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Av. Monforte de Lemos, 5, 28029, Madrid, Spain.
- CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain.
| | - Oskar Ayerdi
- Centro Sanitario Sandoval, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria San Carlos, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - David Palma
- CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- Servicio de Epidemiología, Agència de Salut Pública de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jorge Néstor García
- Unidad de ITS de Vall d'Hebron-Drassanes, Hospital Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gregorio Barrio
- Escuela Nacional de Sanidad, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Av. Monforte de Lemos, 5, 28029, Madrid, Spain
- CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - María José Belza
- Escuela Nacional de Sanidad, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Av. Monforte de Lemos, 5, 28029, Madrid, Spain
- CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
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Popping S, Haspels S, Gotz HM, van der Meijden WCJPM, van den Elshout M, Rijnders BJ. Low Hepatitis C Virus Prevalence among Men Who Have Sex with Men Attending Public Health Services in The Netherlands. Viruses 2023; 15:2317. [PMID: 38140558 PMCID: PMC10747767 DOI: 10.3390/v15122317] [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: 10/21/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The hepatitis C virus (HCV) prevalence is high among men who have sex with men (MSM) with HIV in the Netherlands. Large reductions in HCV incidence among MSM with HIV, however, have occurred since treatment with direct-acting antivirals. Over the years, a broader understanding of the HCV epidemic has shown that HCV infections are not solely restricted to MSM with HIV, but they also occur among HIV-negative MSM. Currently, HCV testing among HIV-negative MSM is only provided for PrEP users and is not part of routine sexually transmitted infection (STI) screening among HIV-negative MSM who are not using PrEP. In this study, we screened 1885 HIV-negative MSM who did not participate in a PrEP program, with over 1966 STI screening visits at four different public health clinic sites. Among the 1885 MSM, only one person had a new HCV infection, resulting in a 0.05% (95% confidence interval 0.0-0.3) incidence. Based on our findings, we can conclude that systematic HCV testing at STI clinics may not yield significant benefits for this particular population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Popping
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, 3015 CN Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Centre for Experimental and Molecular Medicine (CEMM), Amsterdam University Medical Centres—Location AMC, P.O. Box 22660, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sabine Haspels
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, 3015 CN Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Hannelore M. Gotz
- Department of Sexual Health, Public Health Service Rotterdam, 3011 EN Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Mark van den Elshout
- Department of Sexual Health, Public Health Service of the Utrecht Region, 3521 AZ Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Bart J. Rijnders
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, 3015 CN Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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6
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Chen P, Simonetto DA, Paul S, Patel A. Health disparities experienced by sexual and gender minority individuals living with or at risk of chronic liver disease. Clin Liver Dis (Hoboken) 2023; 22:152-156. [PMID: 37908866 PMCID: PMC10615390 DOI: 10.1097/cld.0000000000000073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Phillip Chen
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Douglas A. Simonetto
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Sonali Paul
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Center for Liver Diseases, The University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Arpan Patel
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Gastroenterology, Vatche and Tamar Manoukian Division of Digestive Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
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7
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Traeger MW, Harney BL, Sacks-Davis R, van Santen DK, Cornelisse VJ, Wright EJ, Hellard ME, Doyle JS, Stoové MA. Incidence and Prevalence of Hepatitis C Virus Among HIV-Negative Gay and Bisexual Men Using HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP): A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Open Forum Infect Dis 2023; 10:ofad401. [PMID: 37593532 PMCID: PMC10428087 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofad401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Gay and bisexual men using HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) are at increased risk for sexually transmissible infections. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) risk among PrEP users is less clear. We explored HCV prevalence and incidence among cohorts of gay and bisexual men using PrEP and sources of heterogeneity across studies. Methods This was a systematic review and meta-analysis of open-label PrEP studies to April 2022 reporting HCV prevalence at baseline or incidence during follow-up among gay and bisexual men using PrEP. Pooled prevalence and incidence estimates were calculated using random-effects meta-analysis, and subgroup analyses were performed by study- and country-level characteristics, including availability of HCV direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapy at time of study. Results Twenty-four studies from 9 countries were included, with a total sample of 24 733 gay and bisexual men. Pooled HCV antibody baseline prevalence was 0.97% (95% CI, 0.63%-1.31%), and pooled HCV RNA baseline prevalence was 0.38% (95% CI, 0.19%-0.56%). Among 19 studies reporting HCV incidence, incidence ranged from 0.0 to 2.93/100 person-years (py); the pooled estimate was 0.83/100py (95% CI, 0.55-1.11). HCV incidence was higher in 12 studies that began follow-up before broad DAA availability (1.27/100py) than in 8 studies that began follow-up after broad DAA availability (0.34/100py) and higher in studies in Europe compared with North America and Australia. Conclusions Early reports of high HCV incidence among PrEP-using cohorts likely reflect enrollment of individuals based on specific risk-based eligibility criteria for smaller studies and enrollment before DAA scale-up. In contexts where both DAAs and PrEP have been implemented at scale, studies report lower HCV incidence. PrEP-specific HCV testing guidelines should be guided by local epidemiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael W Traeger
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Brendan L Harney
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Alfred and Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Rachel Sacks-Davis
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Daniela K van Santen
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and Prevention, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Vincent J Cornelisse
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Alfred and Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Kirketon Road Centre, Sydney, Australia
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Edwina J Wright
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Alfred and Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Margaret E Hellard
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Alfred and Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Joseph S Doyle
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Alfred and Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Mark A Stoové
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
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8
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Koopsen J, Matthews G, Rockstroh J, Applegate TL, Bhagani S, Rauch A, Grebely J, Sacks-Davis R, Ingiliz P, Boesecke C, Rebers S, Feld J, Bruneau J, Martinello M, Hellard M, Dore GJ, Schinkel J, van der Valk M. Hepatitis C virus transmission between eight high-income countries among men who have sex with men: a whole-genome analysis. THE LANCET. MICROBE 2023; 4:e622-e631. [PMID: 37336226 DOI: 10.1016/s2666-5247(23)00108-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Microelimination of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) among men who have sex with men (MSM) could be complicated by continuous external introductions and the emergence of phylogenetic clusters harbouring clinically significant resistance-associated substitutions (RAS). To investigate international clustering and the prevalence and transmission of RAS, we aimed to analyse whole-genome HCV sequences from MSM with a recently acquired infection who participated in a large, international HCV treatment trial. METHODS For this whole-genome analysis, we obtained HCV sequences from 128 MSM who had acquired HCV within the past 12 months and were participating in the REACT trial. The participants from whom sequences were obtained were recruited at 24 sites in eight countries. We inferred maximum-likelihood phylogenies and identified transmission clusters for HCV genotypes separately. We constructed time-scaled phylogenies to estimate cluster introduction dates and used a Bayesian Skygrid approach to estimate the effective population size over the past 50 years. We calculated the prevalence of RAS and the extent of RAS transmission in the study population. FINDINGS The majority of recent HCV infections were part of international networks that arose in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Sequences obtained in the same country clustered frequently, and in 36% of subclusters since 2015 we found evidence of international transmission. European MSM were more likely than non-European MSM to be in a cluster (odds ratio 11·9 [95% CI 3·6-43·4], p<0·0001). The effective population size decreased rapidly since around 2015 in Europe. RAS associated with substantially diminished cure rates were infrequently detected and transmission of highly resistant viruses was not observed. INTERPRETATION Despite antiviral treatment becoming widely available, international transmission of HCV among MSM has still occurred over the past 8 years, which could complicate microelimination of the virus in this population. RAS-enriched clusters and widespread RAS transmission are currently not a threat to elimination goals. These findings support an international approach for HCV microelimination among MSM. FUNDING National Institutes of Health and Dr. C.J. Vaillant Fonds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelle Koopsen
- Laboratory of Applied Evolutionary Biology, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
| | - Gail Matthews
- Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; St Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | | | - Sanjay Bhagani
- Royal Free Hospital, London, UK; Division of Infection and Immunity, University College London, London, UK
| | - Andri Rauch
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Jason Grebely
- Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Patrick Ingiliz
- Zentrum für Infektiologie Berlin-Prenzlauer Berg, Berlin, Germany; Henri-Mondor University Hospital, Hepatology Department, INSERM U955, Créteil, France
| | | | - Sjoerd Rebers
- Section of Clinical Virology, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Jordan Feld
- Toronto Centre for Liver Diseases, Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Julie Bruneau
- Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Margaret Hellard
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Gregory J Dore
- Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; St Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Janke Schinkel
- Section of Clinical Virology, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Marc van der Valk
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Stichting HIV Monitoring, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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9
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Graf C, Fuhrmann L, Lutz T, Stephan C, Knecht G, Gute P, Bickel M, Peiffer KH, Finkelmeier F, Dultz G, Mondorf A, Wetzstein N, Filmann N, Herrmann E, Zeuzem S, Beerenwinkel N, Dietz J, Sarrazin C. Expanding epidemic of recently acquired HCV in HIV-coinfected patients over a period of 10 years. JHEP Rep 2023; 5:100701. [PMID: 37305441 PMCID: PMC10250927 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2023.100701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background & Aims Ongoing transmission of HCV infections is associated with risk factors such as drug injection, needlestick injuries, and men who have sex with men (MSM). Ways of transmission, the course of acute infection, changes of virologic features, and incidence over time are not well known. Methods Over a period of 10 years, n = 161 patients with recently acquired HCV infection (RAHC) (median follow-up 6.8 years) were prospectively enrolled. NS5B sequencing was performed to re-evaluate the HCV genotype (GT) and for phylogenetic analyses. Results Patients with RAHC were mainly male (92.5%), MSM (90.1%), and HIV-coinfected (86.3%). Transmission risk factors for MSM and non-MSM were sexual risk behaviour (100 and 6.3%, respectively), injection drug use (9.7 and 37.5%, respectively), and nasal drug use (15.2 and 0%, respectively). Spontaneous and interferon- or direct-acting antiviral-based clearance rates were 13.6, 84.3 and 93.4%, respectively. Mean RAHC declined from 19.8 in the first to 13.2 in the past five study years. Although the majority of infections was caused by HCV GT1a, the frequency of HCV GT4d and slightly HCV GT3a increased over time. No relevant clustering of HCV isolates was observed in non-MSM. However, 45% of HCV GT1a and 100% of HCV GT4d MSM cases clustered with MSM isolates from other countries. Travel-associated infections were supported by personal data in an MSM subgroup. No international clustering was detected in MSM with HCV GT1b or HCV GT3a. Conclusions RAHCs were mainly diagnosed in HIV-coinfected MSM patients and were associated with sexual risk behaviour. Spontaneous clearance rates were low, and phylogenetic clusters were observed in the majority of patients. Impact and Implications We evaluated the occurrence and transmission of recently acquired HCV infections (RAHCs) over a period of 10 years. Our data demonstrate that the presence of RAHC was mainly found in HIV-coinfected MSM, with internationally connected transmission networks being observed in the majority of patients. Spontaneous clearance rates were low, and reinfection rates increased mainly driven by a small subset of MSM patients with high-risk behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christiana Graf
- Department of Internal Medicine 1, University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Lara Fuhrmann
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland
- SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Christoph Stephan
- HIVCENTER, Department of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Kai-Henrik Peiffer
- Department of Internal Medicine 1, University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Fabian Finkelmeier
- Department of Internal Medicine 1, University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Georg Dultz
- Department of Internal Medicine 1, University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Antonia Mondorf
- Department of Internal Medicine 1, University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Nils Wetzstein
- HIVCENTER, Department of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Natalie Filmann
- Institute of Biostatistics and Mathematical Modeling, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Eva Herrmann
- Institute of Biostatistics and Mathematical Modeling, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Stefan Zeuzem
- Department of Internal Medicine 1, University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Niko Beerenwinkel
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland
- SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Julia Dietz
- Department of Internal Medicine 1, University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Christoph Sarrazin
- Department of Internal Medicine 1, University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
- Medizinische Klinik II, St. Josefs-Hospital, Wiesbaden, Germany
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10
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Bhattacharya D, Aronsohn A, Price J, Lo Re V. Hepatitis C Guidance 2023 Update: AASLD-IDSA Recommendations for Testing, Managing, and Treating Hepatitis C Virus Infection. Clin Infect Dis 2023:ciad319. [PMID: 37229695 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciad319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The Infectious Diseases Society of America and the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases have collaboratively developed evidence-based guidance regarding the diagnosis, management, and treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection since 2013. A panel of clinicians and investigators with extensive infectious diseases or hepatology expertise specific to HCV infection periodically review evidence from the field and update existing recommendations or introduce new recommendations as evidence warrants. This update focuses on changes to the guidance since the previous 2020 published update, including ongoing emphasis on recommended universal screening; management recommendations for incomplete treatment adherence; expanded eligibility for simplified chronic HCV infection treatment in adults with minimal monitoring; updated treatment and retreatment recommendations for children as young as 3 years old; management and treatment recommendations in the transplantation setting; and screening, treatment, and management recommendations for unique and key populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debika Bhattacharya
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
| | - Andrew Aronsohn
- Department of Medicine, Section of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University of Chicago
| | - Jennifer Price
- Division of Medicine, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of California, San Francisco
| | - Vincent Lo Re
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine
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11
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Hage K, Boyd A, Davidovich U, Zantkuijl P, Hoornenborg E, Matser A, Generaal E, Schinkel J, Todesco E, van der Valk M, Rougier H, Lacombe K, Prins M. Evaluating interventions to reduce behaviour associated with HCV reinfection in men who have sex with men: study protocol for a non-blinded, phase 2, randomised trial. Trials 2023; 24:193. [PMID: 36922871 PMCID: PMC10015546 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-023-07161-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As highly effective therapy against hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is available with rapid uptake, there is newfound optimism for HCV elimination. Nevertheless, certain key populations have a high risk of HCV reinfection, in particular men who have sex with men (MSM) in Western European countries. Modelling data indicate that HCV elimination will not be feasible without reduction in risk behaviour, thus supporting the need for effective interventions aimed at reducing risk behaviour and preventing reinfections in MSM. METHODS The ICECREAM study is an international, multi-centred, phase 2, 3-arm randomised trial comparing run-in and intervention periods enrolling MSM with a history of a cured or spontaneously cleared HCV infection. Individuals are followed in routine care for 6 months (i.e. run-in period) and then randomly allocated (1:1:1) to one of the following: a tailored, interactive online risk-reduction behavioural intervention, a validated home-based HCV-RNA self-sampling test service using dried blood spots, or a combination of both. After randomisation, individuals are followed every 6 months until 18 months (i.e. intervention period). Interventions are delivered in addition to standard of care. Online questionnaire measuring risk behaviour over the past 6 months is administered at every visit. The primary outcome is the proportion at risk of HCV infection during run-in versus intervention periods assessed by using the HCV-MOSAIC risk score. The risk score consists of six self-reported HCV-related risk behaviours. Secondary outcomes include incidence of HCV reinfection, changes in the individual risk behaviour items and changes in sexual well-being since changes in sexual behaviour may have an impact on sexual experience. Two hundred forty-six MSM aged 18 years or older will be invited to participate. DISCUSSION The ICECREAM study is a trial aimed at establishing interventions that could effectively decrease the incidence of HCV re-infection in MSM with a previous HCV infection. By offering an online behavioural risk-reduction intervention and HCV-RNA self-sampling, both of which are aimed to influence risk behaviour, we are able to provide products to at-risk MSM that could further reduce population-level HCV incidence and ultimately help reach HCV micro-elimination. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04156945. Registered on November 8, 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kris Hage
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands. .,Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Infectious Diseases, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands. .,Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Anders Boyd
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Stichting hiv monitoring, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Udi Davidovich
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,University of Amsterdam, Department of Psychology, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Elske Hoornenborg
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Amy Matser
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ellen Generaal
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Centre for Infectious Disease Control (Cib), Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - Janke Schinkel
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Eve Todesco
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Institut Pierre Louis d'Epidémiologie et de Santé Publique (IPLESP), APHP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Laboratoire de virologie, Paris, France
| | - Marc van der Valk
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Stichting hiv monitoring, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Hayette Rougier
- IMEA, Institut de Médecine et d'Épidémiologie Appliquée, Paris, France
| | - Karine Lacombe
- Faculté de médecine, Sorbonne Université, Inserm IPLESP, Hôpital St Antoine, APHP, Paris, France
| | - Maria Prins
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Infectious Diseases, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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12
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Persistent Transmission of HCV among Men Who Have Sex with Men despite Widespread Screening and Treatment with Direct-Acting Antivirals. Viruses 2022; 14:v14091953. [PMID: 36146760 PMCID: PMC9502248 DOI: 10.3390/v14091953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: In the Netherlands, unrestricted access to direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) halved the incidence of acute hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections among HIV-infected men who have sex with men (MSM). To develop strategies that can further reduce the spread of HCV, it is important to understand the transmission dynamics of HCV. We used phylogenetic analysis of a dense sample of MSM to provide insight into the impact of unrestricted access to DAAs on HCV transmission in the Netherlands and in Belgium. Methods: We included 89 MSM that were recently infected with HCV genotype 1a in ten Dutch and one Belgian HIV treatment centers. Sequences were generated using next gene sequencing and Sanger sequencing. Maximum likelihood phylogenetic analysis (general time reversible model) was performed on concatenated NS5A and NS5B sequences and a reference set of 389 highly similar control sequences selected from GenBank. A cluster was based on a minimum bootstrap support of 90% and a 3% genetic distance threshold. Results: We found that 78 (88%) of individuals were part of seven major clusters. All clusters included individuals from across the study region, however, different cities were part of different clusters. In three clusters, HIV-negative MSM clustered with sequences from HIV-positive MSM. All clusters that were observed before the introduction of DAAs persisted after unrestricted access to DAAs became available. Conclusion: Recently acquired HCV infections among MSM in the Netherlands and Belgium are strongly clustered and therefore highly suitable for targeted prevention strategies, such as contact tracing and partner notification. Importantly, despite an HCV incidence reduction after high DAA uptake and continuously monitoring, HCV transmission persisted in the same clusters.
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13
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Thompson KA, Blank G, Toy J, Moore DM, Lachowsky N, Bacani N, Zhang W, Sereda P, Lima VD, Barrios R, Montaner JSG, Hull MW. Prevalence and incidence of hepatitis C infection amongst men who have sex with men in a population-based pre-exposure prophylaxis program in British Columbia, Canada. Liver Int 2022; 42:1528-1535. [PMID: 35274805 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Men who have sex with men (MSM) are at risk for sexually-transmitted hepatitis C (HCV). Evidence for HCV infection in the context of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) use in North America is limited. We sought to characterize baseline HCV prevalence and incidence in MSM receiving PrEP in British Columbia (BC), Canada. METHODS We followed individuals in the BC PrEP program from January 2018 to August 2019. We evaluated baseline prevalence and incident seroconversions (newly positive HCV antibody). A multivariable logistic regression model was performed in MSM for factors associated with HCV prevalence at enrollment, including reported prior sexually transmitted infection (STI), HIV Incidence Risk Index for MSM score, PrEP use because of a partner living with HIV, and location of residence. RESULTS The median age of the cohort was 33 years, 98.3% male, with 3058 person years (PY) of follow-up. Baseline HCV prevalence was 0.82% (31/3907 MSM enrollees) and HCV incidence (n = 3) was 0.15 per 100 PY (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.03-0.45). In multivariable analysis, initiating PrEP because of a partner living with HIV (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 5.02; 95% CI 1.87-13.47) and prior STI (aOR 2.34; 95% CI 1.04-5.24) were associated with positive HCV status. CONCLUSIONS Baseline HCV prevalence and incidence was low amongst MSM in a population-based PrEP program in BC, Canada. HCV was associated with bridging from populations living with HIV and evidence of a reported prior STI as a PrEP indicator condition amongst MSM. PrEP initiation may be an opportunity for linkage to HCV screening and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle A Thompson
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Gabriel Blank
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Junine Toy
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - David M Moore
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Nathan Lachowsky
- Faculty of Human & Social Development, School of Public Health & Social Policy, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Nicanor Bacani
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Wendy Zhang
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Paul Sereda
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Viviane D Lima
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Rolando Barrios
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Julio S G Montaner
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Mark W Hull
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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14
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Hosseini-Hooshyar S, Hajarizadeh B, Bajis S, Law M, Janjua NZ, Fierer DS, Chromy D, Rockstroh JK, Martin TCS, Ingiliz P, Hung CC, Dore GJ, Martinello M, Matthews GV. Risk of hepatitis C reinfection following successful therapy among people living with HIV: a global systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression. THE LANCET HIV 2022; 9:e414-e427. [DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3018(22)00077-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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15
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Chirapongsathorn S. Hepatitis C prevalence among men who have sex with men attending a gay bathhouse. JGH Open 2022; 6:353-357. [PMID: 35601127 PMCID: PMC9120875 DOI: 10.1002/jgh3.12751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Background and Aim Related research has found that men who visit public sex environments such as a gay bathhouse engage in unprotected anal intercourse and tend to have multiple sexual partners during their visit. We aimed to assess the risk of hepatitis C virus (HCV) transmission among men attending a gay bathhouse. Methods A prospective study of the prevalence of HCV among men attending a gay bathhouse was conducted in Bangkok, Thailand, from October 2019 to March 2020. HCV risks and risk perceptions were evaluated using a self-administered questionnaire. HCV testing with result notification was provided on site. Results Of the 40 participants (median age 30 years), one subject (2.5%) was positive for HCV antibody. Bathhouse patrons reported engaging in high-risk sexual behavior, including sexually transmitted infection history and Chemsex experience. The subject tested positive for HCV antibody reported a frequency of attending gay bathhouse of around 2-4 times monthly and had multiple partners while attending a gay bathhouse. Only 15% of subjects realized that hepatitis C can be transmitted through sexual intercourse. Conclusion Our findings support HCV transmission-reducing guidelines recommending providing selective HCV testing among men who have sex with men (MSM). Bathhouse patrons reported low literacy levels on HCV transmission. Nevertheless, HCV screening should cover a population exhibiting high-risk sexual behaviors such as attending a gay bathhouse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sakkarin Chirapongsathorn
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of MedicinePhramongkutklao Hospital and College of MedicineBangkokThailand
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16
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Amin J, Vaccher S, Templeton DJ, Bavinton B B, Jin F, ZablotskaI I, Matthews G, Oglvie E, Yeung B, Ooi C, Dharan N, Baker DA, Read P, Grulich AE. Low prior exposure and incidence of hepatitis C in HIV negative gay and bisexual men taking PrEP: findings from the EPIC-NSW prospective implementation study. Clin Infect Dis 2022; 75:1497-1502. [PMID: 35352102 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciac231] [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: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for the prevention of HIV has raised concerns of increased sexual risk behaviours. These behaviours may be associated with increased incidence of sexually acquired hepatitis C (HCV) among gay and bisexual men (GBM). METHODS The Expanded PrEP Implementation in Communities-New South Wales (EPIC-NSW) study was a cohort study of daily co-formulated tenofovir disoproxil fumarate and emtricitabine for HIV prevention. We recruited 9596 people at high risk of HIV acquisition from 31 clinics across New South Wales and the Australia Capital Territory in Australia. We report prior exposure to HCV and incidence in this cohort between 2016 and 2019. RESULTS At least one HCV test result was available for 8658 (90.2%) participants. These individuals had a median age of 34 years (IQR 28-43), most of whom were male (8530, 98.5%), identified as gay (7944, 91.8%), and were born in Australia (51.8%). Prior exposure to HCV was detected among 81 participants at baseline (0.9%, 95% CI 0.7 to 1.2%). Twenty of 8577 participants were diagnosed with incident infection (rate 0.2/100 person years (95%CI 0.1 to 0.3/100py)). They were significantly older (median age 41 years vs 34 years, p=0.044), and more likely to report methamphetamine use at baseline (IRR 2.7 (95%CI 1.00-7.2)) than those without incident infection. CONCLUSIONS In this population of PrEP users, HCV prior exposure and incidence were low. With high levels of HCV and HIV testing and treatment, the dual goals of HIV and HCV elimination could be achieved in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janaki Amin
- Department of Health Systems and Populations, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Stefanie Vaccher
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David J Templeton
- Department of Sexual Health Medicine and Sexual Assault Medical Service, Sydney Local Health District, and Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Fengyi Jin
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Iryna ZablotskaI
- Western Sydney Sexual Health Centre & Sydney Medical School - Westmead, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Gail Matthews
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Erin Oglvie
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Barbra Yeung
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Catriona Ooi
- Clinic 16, St Leonards, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Nila Dharan
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David A Baker
- East Sydney Doctors, Darlinghurst, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Phillip Read
- Kirketon Road Centre, Kings Cross, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Andrew E Grulich
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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17
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Incidence of Hepatitis C Virus Infections Among Users of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Pre-exposure Prophylaxis. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 20:674-681. [PMID: 33737225 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2021.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Sexual transmission of hepatitis C virus (HCV) is well documented among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-uninfected individuals. The use of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) may be associated with engagement in activities that facilitate the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and possibly HCV among PrEP users. METHODS Between 2012 and 2019, the incidence of HCV and bacterial STIs were calculated among HIV-negative indviduals receiving PrEP at the University Health Network HIV Prevention Clinic. Mucosal, anal, and blood samples were taken to test for HIV, syphilis, and anti-HCV antibodies. RESULTS Among 344 HIV-uninfected patients receiving PrEP, 86% were men having sex with men (MSM). Five individuals were HCV-antibody positive at the time of PrEP initiation. Serologic and virologic follow-up data were available for 109 HCV-negative individuals over 282 patient-years (PY). Two new infections were recorded, yielding an incidence of primary HCV infection of 0.7 per 100 PY. In contrast with HCV, the incidence rates of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis were 49.2 per 100 PY, 36.3 per 100 PY, and 5.2 per 100 PY, respectively. Both individuals with new HCV diagnoses reported being MSM with a history of unprotected intercourse and 1 individual also reported recreational drug use. Both individuals were asymptomatic at the time of diagnosis and the infections were detected by routine laboratory monitoring. CONCLUSIONS The low incidence of HCV infections despite significantly higher rates of other STIs suggests that sexual transmission of HCV is uncommon in HIV-negative MSM PrEP users in this community. Performing routine risk-based HCV surveillance among PrEP users should be evaluated. The high incidence of STIs in this population indicates a vital role for periodic STI monitoring in those receiving PrEP.
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18
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Ikeuchi K, Okushin K, Saito M, Adachi E, Tsutsumi T, Takura T, Yotsuyanagi H. Prevalence of HIV infection among non-elderly individuals with hepatitis C in Japan: a population-based cohort study using a health insurance claim data. BMC Infect Dis 2022; 22:167. [PMID: 35189825 PMCID: PMC8862380 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-022-07152-5] [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: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatitis C virus (HCV) has been mainly transmitted through injection drug use, but recently, sexual transmission among men who have sex with men (MSM), which is also a major route of HIV transmission, is increasing. However, the prevalence of HIV and the incidence of other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among HCV patients have been rarely reported. Methods Using a healthcare insurance claim data of employees and their dependents covering seven-million people in Japan, we evaluated HIV prevalence among HCV patients aged 20–59 years. Hemophilia patients were excluded. HIV and HCV were defined by registered diagnoses and receiving viral RNA testing. The time course of HCV and HIV infections was analyzed. Incidences of syphilis, amebiasis, chlamydia, gonorrhea, hepatitis A, and hepatitis B were assessed. Results From April 2012 to August 2018, 6,422 HCV patients were identified. HIV prevalence was 0.48% (31/6422, 95% CI [confidence interval]: 0.33–0.68%). HIV was diagnosed after HCV in 3.2% (1/31), before HCV in 58.1% (18/31), and concurrently in 38.7% (12/31). Compared with HCV patients without HIV infection, HCV/HIV co-infected patients were younger (median age, 37 vs 51 years, p < 0.001), more likely to be male (30/31 [96.8%] vs 3059/6391 [47.9%], p < 0.001), more likely to have other STIs (38.7% [12/31] vs 0.9% [56/6391], p < 0.001), and live in Tokyo, the most populous capital city in Japan (67.7% [21/31] vs 11.6% [742/6391], p < 0.001). In Tokyo, the HIV prevalence among 20–30 s male with HCV was 18.6% (13/70; 95% CI, 10.3–29.7%). Conclusions HIV prevalence among young male HCV patients was very high in Tokyo. HCV/HIV co-infected patients were more likely to acquire HIV before HCV, which is a known feature of MSM. They also had a higher incidence of STIs. These findings suggest that HCV might be prevalent as an STI among MSM particularly in Tokyo. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12879-022-07152-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuhiko Ikeuchi
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Applied Immunology, IMSUT Hospital of The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 108-8639, Japan.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Advanced Clinical Research Center, Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 108-8639, Japan
| | - Kazuya Okushin
- Department of Infection Control and Prevention, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan. .,Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan.
| | - Makoto Saito
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Applied Immunology, IMSUT Hospital of The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 108-8639, Japan.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Advanced Clinical Research Center, Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 108-8639, Japan
| | - Eisuke Adachi
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Applied Immunology, IMSUT Hospital of The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 108-8639, Japan
| | - Takeya Tsutsumi
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Applied Immunology, IMSUT Hospital of The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 108-8639, Japan.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Advanced Clinical Research Center, Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 108-8639, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Takura
- Department of Healthcare Economics and Health Policy, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Yotsuyanagi
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Applied Immunology, IMSUT Hospital of The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 108-8639, Japan.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Advanced Clinical Research Center, Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 108-8639, Japan
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19
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Irvin R, Gamble T, Malone J, Wang Z, Wilson E, Hughes JP, Farley J, Mayer KH, Del Rio C, Batey DS, Cummings V, Remien RH, Beyrer C, Thio CL. HIV Prevention Trials Network 078: High Prevalence of Hepatitis C Virus Antibodies Among Urban US Men Who Have Sex With Men, Independent of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Status. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 73:e2205-e2210. [PMID: 33346798 PMCID: PMC8492204 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciaa1869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexual transmission of hepatitis C virus (HCV) is uncommon, yet documented among men who have sex with men (MSM), primarily among those with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). METHODS In the HIV Prevention Trials Network 078 study (HPTN 078), which assessed an integrated strategy to achieve HIV viral suppression, 1305 MSM were screened across 4 geographically diverse US cities. At screening, demographic/behavioral/psychosocial questionnaires were completed, along with HIV and HCV testing. Multivariable logistic regression was used to evaluate associations with HCV antibody positivity. RESULTS Among the 1287 (99%) of the MSM with HCV antibody results, the median age was 41, 69% were black, 85% had a high school education or more, 35% were employed, 70% had HIV, and 21% had undergone substance use counseling. The median lifetime number of male sexual partners was 17 (interquartile range, 6-50), and 246 (19%) were HCV antibody positive. HCV antibody positivity was high in MSM with HIV (20%) and MSM without HIV (17%) (P = .12) and was higher in those receiving substance use counseling (36%) than in those who had not (15%) (P ≤ .01). Substance use counseling (odds ratio, 2.51; 95% confidence interval, 1.80-3.51) and unstable housing (2.16; 1.40-3.33) were associated with HCV antibody positivity. CONCLUSIONS Nearly 1 in 5 MSM screened for HPTN 078 have been infected with HCV. The prevalence is high regardless of HIV status and is high even in those who did not undergo substance use counseling. In HIV burden networks, high HCV infection prevalence may occur in MSM without HIV. As implementation of preexposure prophylaxis expands and condom use declines, routine HCV counseling and screening among MSM are important.
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Affiliation(s)
- Risha Irvin
- Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Theresa Gamble
- HPTN Leadership and Operations Center, FHI 360, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Zhe Wang
- Statistical Center for HIV/AIDS Research and Prevention, Seattle, Washington , USA
| | - Ethan Wilson
- Statistical Center for HIV/AIDS Research and Prevention, Seattle, Washington , USA
| | | | - Jason Farley
- Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Kenneth H Mayer
- The Fenway Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Carlos Del Rio
- Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - D Scott Batey
- The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | | | - Robert H Remien
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, NY State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Chris Beyrer
- Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Chloe L Thio
- Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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20
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Factors associated with testing for HIV and hepatitis C among behaviorally vulnerable men in Germany: a cross-sectional analysis upon enrollment into an observational cohort. AIDS Res Ther 2021; 18:52. [PMID: 34399787 PMCID: PMC8365908 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-021-00378-4] [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: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV and hepatitis C virus (HCV) have shared routes of transmission among men who have sex with men (MSM). Routine testing facilitates early diagnosis and treatment, thereby preventing morbidity and onward transmission. We evaluated factors associated with HIV and HCV testing in a behaviorally vulnerable cohort of predominantly MSM. METHODS From June 2018 through June 2019, the BRAHMS study enrolled adults at ten German outpatient clinics that serve gender and sexual minority populations. Participants completed behavioral questionnaires that captured prior experience with HIV and HCV testing. Multivariable robust Poisson regression was used to evaluate factors potentially associated with testing in the previous 6 months. RESULTS Among 1017 participants with median age 33 (interquartile range 28-39) years, 1001 (98.4%) reported any lifetime history of HIV testing and 787 (77.4%) reported any HCV testing, including 16 (1.6%) known to be living with HCV. Testing within the last 6 months was reported by 921 (90.6%) and 513 (50.4%) for HIV and HCV, respectively. Recent HIV testing was more common among participants with higher education level and recent HCV testing. Recent HCV testing was more common among participants with non-cisgender identity, lifetime history of illicit drug use, hepatitis B immunity or infection, and recent HIV testing. CONCLUSION Prior testing for HIV was common in this cohort, but interventions are needed to improve HCV risk stratification and access to testing. HIV testing infrastructure can be successfully leveraged to support HCV testing, but differentiated preventive care delivery is needed for some vulnerable populations.
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21
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Jongen VW, Reyniers T, Ypma ZMH, Schim van der Loeff MF, Davidovich U, Zimmermann HML, Coyer L, van den Elshout MAM, de Vries HJC, Wouters K, Smekens T, Vuylsteke B, Prins M, Laga M, Hoornenborg E. Choosing event-driven and daily HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis - data from two European PrEP demonstration projects among men who have sex with men. J Int AIDS Soc 2021; 24:e25768. [PMID: 34382345 PMCID: PMC8358711 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Daily and event-driven PrEP are both efficacious in reducing the risk for HIV infection. However, the practice of event-driven PrEP (edPrEP) is less well studied, in particular when provided as an alternative to daily PrEP. We studied regimen preferences and switches, and sexually transmitted infection (STI) incidence. METHODS We analysed pooled data from two prospective cohort studies among MSM: Be-PrEP-ared, Belgium and AMPrEP, the Netherlands. In both projects, participants could choose between daily and edPrEP at three-monthly study visits, when they were also screened for sexually transmitted infections including hepatitis C (HCV). We assessed the proportion choosing each regimen, and the determinants of choosing edPrEP at baseline. Additionally, we compared the incidence rates (IRs) of HCV, syphilis and chlamydia or gonorrhoea between regimens using Poisson regression. The study period was from 3 August 2015 until 24 September 2018. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION We included 571 MSM, of whom 148 (25.9%) chose edPrEP at baseline. 31.7% of participants switched regimen at least once. After 28 months, 23.5% used edPrEP. Older participants (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.38 per 10 years, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.15 to 1.64) and those unemployed (aOR = 1.68, 95% CI = 1.03 to 1.75) were more likely to initially choose edPrEP. IR of HCV and syphilis did not differ between regimens, but the IR of chlamydia/gonorrhoea was higher among daily users (adjusted incidence rate ratio = 1.61, 95% CI = 1.35 to 1.94). CONCLUSIONS A quarter of participants chose edPrEP at baseline and at 28 months this proportion was similar. Although the IR of HCV and syphilis were similar in the two regimens, the lower incidence of chlamydia and gonorrhoea among edPrEP users may suggest that less frequent STI testing of this group could be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vita W Jongen
- Department of Infectious DiseasesPublic Health Service AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Thijs Reyniers
- Department of Public HealthInstitute of Tropical MedicineAntwerpBelgium
| | - Zorah MH Ypma
- Department of Infectious DiseasesPublic Health Service AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Maarten F Schim van der Loeff
- Department of Infectious DiseasesPublic Health Service AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Internal MedicineAmsterdam Infection and Immunity (AII)Amsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Udi Davidovich
- Department of Infectious DiseasesPublic Health Service AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Department of Social PsychologyUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Hanne ML Zimmermann
- Department of Infectious DiseasesPublic Health Service AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Liza Coyer
- Department of Infectious DiseasesPublic Health Service AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | | | - Henry JC de Vries
- Department of Infectious DiseasesPublic Health Service AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Department of DermatologyAmsterdam Infection and Immunity (AII), location Academic Medical CentreAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Kristien Wouters
- Department of Public HealthInstitute of Tropical MedicineAntwerpBelgium
| | - Tom Smekens
- Department of Public HealthInstitute of Tropical MedicineAntwerpBelgium
| | - Bea Vuylsteke
- Department of Public HealthInstitute of Tropical MedicineAntwerpBelgium
| | - Maria Prins
- Department of Infectious DiseasesPublic Health Service AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Internal MedicineAmsterdam Infection and Immunity (AII)Amsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Marie Laga
- Department of Public HealthInstitute of Tropical MedicineAntwerpBelgium
| | - Elske Hoornenborg
- Department of Infectious DiseasesPublic Health Service AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
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22
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Brief Report: Low Incidence of Hepatitis C Among a Cohort of HIV-Negative Gay and Bisexual Men Using HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) in Melbourne, Australia, and the Contribution of Sexual Transmission. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2021; 87:1011-1015. [PMID: 33770064 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND PrEPX was an Australian HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) study conducted between 2016 and 2018. This analysis aimed to estimate hepatitis C (HCV) incidence and explore likely modes of transmission. SETTING Cohort study of PrEP users in Victoria, Australia. METHODS HCV tests were conducted at enrollment and every 12 months thereafter. HCV incident cases were identified from laboratory data. Likely modes of transmission were inferred from computer-assisted self-interviews, medical records, and interviews. RESULTS Among 3202 PrEPX participants tested for HCV at baseline, HCV RNA-positive prevalence was 0.22% (95% confidence interval: 0.09 to 0.45). Among participants testing HCV antibody-negative or RNA-negative at baseline, 2058 had at least one follow-up HCV test. Eight incident HCV cases were identified during 2111 person-years of follow-up (incidence 0.38/100 person-years); all were primary infections in men who had sex with men. Clinical, laboratory, and computer-assisted self-interviews data were available for all, and 6 cases were interviewed. Three cases were attributable to injecting drug use (IDU). A fourth case reported IDU, but his HCV was attributable to sexual transmission. Four other cases reported no IDU and probably acquired HCV sexually. Most cases reported anal trauma in the context of condomless receptive anal intercourse during group sex at sex-on-premises venues. CONCLUSIONS In PrEPX, HCV incidence was low compared to international PrEP studies, and most cases were transmitted sexually. Our findings highlight the need for HCV prevention messaging by clinicians, in sex-on-premises venues, and on digital platforms used to arrange group sex; and the need for HCV screening among some PrEP-using men who have sex with men.
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23
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Workowski KA, Bachmann LH, Chan PA, Johnston CM, Muzny CA, Park I, Reno H, Zenilman JM, Bolan GA. Sexually Transmitted Infections Treatment Guidelines, 2021. MMWR Recomm Rep 2021; 70:1-187. [PMID: 34292926 PMCID: PMC8344968 DOI: 10.15585/mmwr.rr7004a1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 833] [Impact Index Per Article: 277.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
These guidelines for the treatment of persons who have or are at risk for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) were updated by CDC after consultation with professionals knowledgeable in the field of STIs who met in Atlanta, Georgia, June 11-14, 2019. The information in this report updates the 2015 guidelines. These guidelines discuss 1) updated recommendations for treatment of Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis, and Trichomonas vaginalis; 2) addition of metronidazole to the recommended treatment regimen for pelvic inflammatory disease; 3) alternative treatment options for bacterial vaginosis; 4) management of Mycoplasma genitalium; 5) human papillomavirus vaccine recommendations and counseling messages; 6) expanded risk factors for syphilis testing among pregnant women; 7) one-time testing for hepatitis C infection; 8) evaluation of men who have sex with men after sexual assault; and 9) two-step testing for serologic diagnosis of genital herpes simplex virus. Physicians and other health care providers can use these guidelines to assist in prevention and treatment of STIs.
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24
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Koopsen J, Parker E, Han AX, van de Laar T, Russell C, Hoornenborg E, Prins M, van der Valk M, Schinkel J. Hepatitis C Virus Transmission Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in Amsterdam: External Introductions May Complicate Microelimination Efforts. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 72:e1056-e1063. [PMID: 33289036 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciaa1830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is unclear whether unrestricted access and high uptake of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) is sufficient to eliminate hepatitis C virus (HCV) in high-risk populations such as men who have sex with men (MSM). This study presents historic trends and current dynamics of HCV transmission among MSM in Amsterdam based on sequence data collected between 1994 and 2019. METHODS Hypervariable region 1 sequences of 232 primary HCV infections and 56 reinfections were obtained from 244 MSM in care in Amsterdam. Maximum-likelihood phylogenies were constructed for HCV genotypes separately, and time-scaled phylogenies were constructed using a Bayesian coalescent approach. Transmission clusters were determined by Phydelity and trends in the proportion of unclustered sequences over time were evaluated using logistic regression. RESULTS Seventy-six percent (218/288) of sequences were part of 21 transmission clusters and 13 transmission pairs. Transmission cluster sizes ranged from 3 to 44 sequences. Most clusters were introduced between the late 1990s and early 2010s and no new clusters were introduced after 2012. The proportion of unclustered sequences of subtype 1a, the most prevalent subtype in this population, fluctuated between 0% and 20% in 2009-2012, after which an increase occurred from 0% in 2012 to 50% in 2018. CONCLUSIONS The proportion of external introductions of HCV infections among MSM in Amsterdam has recently increased, coinciding with high DAA uptake. Frequent international transmission events will likely complicate local microelimination efforts. Therefore, international collaboration combined with international scale-up of prevention, testing, and treatment of HCV infections (including reinfections) is warranted, in particular for local microelimination efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelle Koopsen
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Laboratory of Applied Evolutionary Biology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Edyth Parker
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Laboratory of Applied Evolutionary Biology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Alvin X Han
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Laboratory of Applied Evolutionary Biology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Thijs van de Laar
- Department of Donor Medicine Research, Laboratory of Blood-borne Infections, Sanquin Research, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Laboratory of Medical Microbiology, Onze Lieve Vrouwe Gasthuis, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Colin Russell
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Laboratory of Applied Evolutionary Biology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Elske Hoornenborg
- Sexually Transmitted Infections Outpatient Clinic, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and Prevention, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maria Prins
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and Prevention, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marc van der Valk
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Janke Schinkel
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Section of Clinical Virology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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25
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Garvey LJ, Cooke GS, Smith C, Stingone C, Ghosh I, Dakshina S, Jain L, Waters LJ, Mahungu T, Ferro F, Sood C, Freeman C, Phillips C, Dhairyawan R, Burholt R, Sharp H, Ullah S, Gilleece Y, Brown A, Orkin C, Rodger A, Bhagani S. Decline in Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Incidence in Men Who Have Sex With Men Living With Human Immunodeficiency Virus: Progress to HCV Microelimination in the United Kingdom? Clin Infect Dis 2021; 72:233-238. [PMID: 32211763 PMCID: PMC7840101 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciaa021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Modeling of the London hepatitis C virus (HCV) epidemic in men who have sex with men (MSM) and are living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) suggested that early access to direct-acting antiviral (DAA) treatment may reduce incidence. With high rates of linkage to care, microelimination of HCV within MSM living with HIV may be realistic ahead of 2030 World Health Organization targets. We examined trends in HCV incidence in the pre- and post-DAA eras for MSM living with HIV in London and Brighton, United Kingdom. METHODS A retrospective cohort study was conducted at 5 HIV clinics in London and Brighton between 2013 and 2018. Each site reported all acute HCV episodes during the study period. Treatment timing data were collected. Incidence rates and reinfection proportion were calculated. RESULTS A total of. 378 acute HCV infections were identified, comprising 292 first infections and 86 reinfections. Incidence rates of acute HCV in MSM living with HIV peaked at 14.57/1000 person-years of follow-up (PYFU; 95% confidence interval [CI], 10.95-18.20) in 2015. Rates fell to 4.63/1000 PYFU (95% CI, 2.60 to 6.67) by 2018. Time from diagnosis to starting treatment declined from 29.8 (2013) to 3.7 months (2018). CONCLUSIONS We observed a 78% reduction in the incidence of first HCV episode and a 68% reduction in overall HCV incidence since the epidemic peak in 2015, which coincides with wider access to DAAs in England. Further interventions to reduce transmission, including earlier access to treatment and for reinfection, are likely needed for microelimination to be achieved in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy J Garvey
- St Mary's Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Graham S Cooke
- St Mary's Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom.,Imperial College, London, United Kingdom
| | - Colette Smith
- Institute for Global Health, UCL, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Indrajit Ghosh
- Mortimer Market Centre, CNWL NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Lakshmi Jain
- Mortimer Market Centre, CNWL NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Laura J Waters
- Mortimer Market Centre, CNWL NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Filippo Ferro
- Royal Free Hospital NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Chandni Sood
- St Mary's Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Carolyn Freeman
- St Mary's Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Clare Phillips
- Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust, United Kingdom
| | | | - Ruth Burholt
- Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust, United Kingdom
| | - Harriet Sharp
- Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust, United Kingdom
| | - Sadna Ullah
- Barts Health NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Yvonne Gilleece
- Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust, United Kingdom
| | - Ashley Brown
- St Mary's Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Chloe Orkin
- Barts Health NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom.,Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alison Rodger
- Institute for Global Health, UCL, London, United Kingdom.,Royal Free Hospital NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
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26
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Ingiliz P, Wehmeyer MH, Boesecke C, Schulze Zur Wiesch J, Schewe K, Lutz T, Baumgarten A, Simon KG, Hueppe D, Rockstroh JK, Mauss S, Christensen S. Reinfection With the Hepatitis C Virus in Men Who Have Sex With Men After Successful Treatment With Direct-acting Antivirals in Germany: Current Incidence Rates, Compared With Rates During the Interferon Era. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 71:1248-1254. [PMID: 31562816 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciz949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2019] [Accepted: 09/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Micro-elimination of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) includes treatment in populations at risk of ongoing HCV transmission, such as men who have sex with men (MSM) or people who inject drugs (PWID). We analyzed the HCV reinfection incidence rates of participants in the German hepatitis C cohort (GECCO) and compared our data to previous findings from the interferon era. METHODS Patients with HCV reinfections in the multi-centric GECCO cohort were compared to patients in whom no reinfection occurred. The HCV reinfection incidence rate in MSM was also compared to the incidence rate in the interferon era (using data from the European Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Treatment Network [NEAT]). RESULTS Between January 2014 and April 2018, 48 HCV reinfections occurred in 2298 individuals (2%), with 2346 cured HCV episodes. The median time to reinfection was 500 days (range 16-1160) and the overall HCV reinfection incidence rate was 1.89 per 100 person-years (py; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.41-2.48). In a multivariate analysis, the transmission risk in MSM was the only independent risk factor of HCV reinfection (odds ratio, 39.3; 95% CI, 4.57-334.40; P = .001). The incidence rate in MSM was 9.02 (95% CI, 6.48-12.26) per 100 py, compared to 1.14 per 100 py in PWID (95% CI, .56-2.09). The incidence rate for a first HCV reinfection in MSM was similar in the direct-acting antiviral era, compared to the interferon era, with a hazard ratio of 1.05 (95% CI, .64-1.74; P = .831). CONCLUSIONS HCV reinfection remains a frequent finding among MSM in Germany. In addition to behavioral interventions, early HCV treatment and retreatment should be implemented for this subgroup to prevent HCV transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Ingiliz
- Center for Infectiology, Berlin, Germany.,Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Charité University Medical Center, Berlin, Germany
| | - Malte H Wehmeyer
- Medical Department, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christoph Boesecke
- Department of Medicine I, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany.,German Centre for Infection Research, Partner Site Cologne-Bonn, Bonn, Germany.,Infectious Diseases, European Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Treatment Network, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Julian Schulze Zur Wiesch
- Medical Department, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,German Centre for Infection Research, Partner Site Cologne-Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Knud Schewe
- Infectiology Center Hamburg Study Center, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | - Juergen K Rockstroh
- Department of Medicine I, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany.,German Centre for Infection Research, Partner Site Cologne-Bonn, Bonn, Germany.,Infectious Diseases, European Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Treatment Network, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Stefan Mauss
- Center for Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Hepatogastroenterology, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Stefan Christensen
- Infectious Diseases, Center for Interdisciplinary Medicine, Muenster, Germany.,Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Muenster University Hospital, Muenster, Germany
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27
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Evaluation of the Hepatitis C Testing Strategy for Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Positive Men Who Have Sex With Men at the Sexually Transmitted Infections Outpatient Clinic of Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Sex Transm Dis 2021; 47:587-595. [PMID: 32815900 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION As the incidence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections remains high among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive men who have sex with men (MSM) an HCV testing strategy was introduced at the sexually transmitted infections (STI) clinic in Amsterdam in 2017. We aimed to evaluate this HCV testing strategy. METHODS The HIV-positive MSM and transgender women (TGW) were eligible for HCV testing (anti-HCV and HCV ribonucleic acid) at the STI clinic if they did not visit their HIV clinician in the 3 months before the consultation and had not been tested for HCV at the STI clinic in the previous 6 months. All eligible individuals were administered the 6 questions on risk behavior of the HCV-MSM observational study of acute infection with hepatitis C (MOSAIC) risk score; a risk score of 2 or greater made a person eligible for testing. RESULTS From February 2017 through June 2018, 1015 HIV-positive MSM and TGW were eligible for HCV testing in 1295 consultations. Eleven active HCV infections (HCV ribonucleic acid positive) were newly diagnosed (positivity rate, 0.9%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.4-1.5%). Sensitivity and specificity of the HCV-MOSAIC score for newly diagnosed active HCV infections were 80.0% (95% CI, 49.0-94.3%) and 53.7% (95% CI, 50.8-56.5%), respectively. If an HCV-MOSAIC score of 2 or greater were used to determine whom to test, 46.6% of individuals currently tested for HCV would be eligible for testing. CONCLUSIONS Using the new HCV testing strategy, HCV testing was done in 1295 consultations with HIV-positive MSM and TGW in 17 months. We newly diagnosed 11 active HCV infections. The HCV-MOSAIC risk score could reduce the number of tests needed, but some active HCV infections will be missed.
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28
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Rockstroh JK, Boesecke C. Hepatitis C Virus Treatment as Prevention: Challenges and Opportunities in Men Who Have Sex With Men. J Infect Dis 2021; 222:S782-S788. [PMID: 33245348 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiaa096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Since 2002, a global epidemic of acute hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection has been noted in men who have sex with men (MSM). Transmission of HCV, particularly in the context of traumatic sex practices that increase the risk of blood-blood contacts (eg, anal sex and fisting), was initially found in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-coinfected and more recently in HIV-uninfected MSM, especially those receiving pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Early HCV treatment with all-oral direct-acting antiviral combination therapy has been associated with very high HCV cure rates of up to 100%. Indeed, immediate treatment of recently acquired HCV directly after new HCV diagnosis, or after 4 weeks if no 2-log10 drop in HCV RNA level occurs, promises rapid HCV elimination. Reports from the Netherlands, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom all show that with increased treatment uptake in this particular patient group, dramatic reductions in new HCV infections can be achieved. A general consensus on how to best screen for and manage acute HCV infections, along with broad access to rapid HCV therapy initiation, is crucial to attaining HCV elimination, a goal that is challenged by high HCV reinfection rates among MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jürgen Kurt Rockstroh
- Department of Medicine I, University Hospital Bonn, Germany.,German Centre for Infection Research, partner site Bonn-Cologne, Bonn, Germany
| | - Christoph Boesecke
- Department of Medicine I, University Hospital Bonn, Germany.,German Centre for Infection Research, partner site Bonn-Cologne, Bonn, Germany
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29
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The WHO has set ambitious targets for hepatitis C virus (HCV) elimination by 2030. In this review, we explore the possibility of HCV micro-elimination in HIV-positive (+) MSM, discussing strategies for reducing acute HCV incidence and the likely interventions required to meet these targets. RECENT FINDINGS With wider availability of directly acting antivirals (DAAs) in recent years, reductions in acute HCV incidence have been reported in some cohorts of HIV+ MSM. Recent evidence demonstrates that treatment in early infection is well tolerated, cost effective and may reduce the risk of onward transmission. Modelling studies suggest that to reduce incidence, a combination approach including behavioural interventions and access to early treatment, targeting both HIV+ and negative high-risk groups, will be required. HCV vaccine trials have not yet demonstrated efficacy in human studies, however phase one and two studies are ongoing. SUMMARY Some progress towards the WHO HCV elimination targets has been reported. Achieving sustained HCV elimination is likely to require a combination approach including early access to DAAs in acute infection and reinfection, validated and reproducible behavioural interventions and an efficacious HCV vaccine.
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Ang LW, Choy CY, Ng OT, Leo YS, Wong CS. Hepatitis C virus infection in HIV-infected men in Singapore, 2006-2018: incidence and associated factors. Sex Health 2021; 18:221-231. [PMID: 34148565 DOI: 10.1071/sh20197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Background The epidemiology of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in people living with HIV has been evolving, with increasing evidence of permucosal (sexual) transmission identified predominantly in HIV-positive men who have sex with men (MSM). The aim of this study was to estimate the incidence rate and elucidate epidemiological factors associated with HCV infection among HIV-infected men in Singapore from 2006 to 2018. METHODS A retrospective cohort study was conducted using a clinical database maintained by the Clinical HIV Program at the National Centre for Infectious Diseases, Singapore. Factors associated with incident HCV infections were identified using Cox proportional hazards regression analyses. RESULTS Among 1348 HIV-infected male patients who were HCV seronegative at baseline, 64 (4.7%) subsequently tested positive for HCV, giving an incidence of 0.88 per 100 person-years of follow-up (PYFU) (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.69-1.13). The incidence rate of HCV seroconversion increased from 0.33 (95% CI 0.12-0.71) per 100 PYFU in 2010-2012 to 1.93 (95% CI 1.36-2.67) in 2016-2018. Independent factors associated with incident HCV infection were younger age groups at HIV diagnosis versus ≥45 years, HIV acquisition via MSM or via both sexual contact and intravenous drug use versus heterosexual transmission, HIV diagnosis in later periods versus 2006-2009, and recent syphilis acquisition. CONCLUSIONS An increasing trend of incident HCV infection was seen in HIV-infected men, particularly for MSM. Preventive and behavioural interventions should be targeted at HIV-infected individuals engaged in high-risk sexual behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Wei Ang
- National Public Health and Epidemiology Unit, National Centre for Infectious Diseases, 16 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, 308442, Singapore; and Corresponding author.
| | - Chiaw Yee Choy
- Department of Infectious Diseases, National Centre for Infectious Diseases, 16 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, 308442, Singapore
| | - Oon Tek Ng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, National Centre for Infectious Diseases, 16 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, 308442, Singapore; and Department of Infectious Diseases, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, 308433, Singapore; and Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, 11 Mandalay Road, 308232, Singapore
| | - Yee Sin Leo
- Department of Infectious Diseases, National Centre for Infectious Diseases, 16 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, 308442, Singapore; and Department of Infectious Diseases, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, 308433, Singapore; and Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, 11 Mandalay Road, 308232, Singapore; and Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, 16 Medical Drive, 117597, Singapore; and Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 10 Medical Drive, 117597, Singapore
| | - Chen Seong Wong
- Department of Infectious Diseases, National Centre for Infectious Diseases, 16 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, 308442, Singapore; and Department of Infectious Diseases, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, 308433, Singapore; and Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, 11 Mandalay Road, 308232, Singapore
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31
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Hill LA, Martin NK, Torriani FJ, Jain S, Qin H, Mathews WC, Cachay ER. Screening for Sexually Transmitted Infections During Hepatitis C Treatment to Predict Reinfection Among People With HIV. Open Forum Infect Dis 2020; 8:ofaa643. [PMID: 33553480 PMCID: PMC7850126 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofaa643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Little is known about the risk of hepatitis C virus (HCV) reinfection among people with HIV (PWH) in the direct-acting antiviral (DAA) era. We evaluate HCV reinfection rates in the DAA era and characterize presustained virologic response (SVR) behavioral risk factors associated with reinfection among PWH at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD). Methods Observational longitudinal cohort of PWH treated with DAAs between 2014 and July 2019 who achieved SVR and had at least 1 subsequent HCV viral load measurement. HCV reinfection was defined as new HCV viremia after SVR. We examined whether screening for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and substance use during the pre-SVR period could identify patients at greater risk for reinfection using exact Poisson regression to compare reinfection incidence rates between those with and without pre-SVR STIs and positive urine drug screens. Results Eight out of 200 PWH were reinfected with HCV a median ~26 weeks after SVR over 328.1 person-years of follow-up (PYFU), for an incidence rate of 2.44/100 PYFU. The observed HCV reinfection rate was highest among men who have sex with men who inject drugs (MSM IDU; 4.63/100 PFYU) and those aged 30-39 years (6.80/100 PYFU). Having a positive gonorrhea/chlamydia test during the pre-SVR period was a predictor of HCV reinfection. Conclusions The HCV reinfection rate in the DAA era is similar to the rate observed in the interferon era in San Diego in PWH. STI screening during HCV treatment may help determine those at higher risk for HCV reinfection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas A Hill
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, UC San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Natasha K Martin
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, UC San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Francesca J Torriani
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, UC San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Sonia Jain
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, UC San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Huifang Qin
- Department of Medicine, UC San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
| | | | - Edward R Cachay
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, UC San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
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Dusheiko G, Childs K. Micro-elimination of HIV and HCV co-infection. Lancet HIV 2020; 8:e61-e62. [PMID: 33357836 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3018(20)30303-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Kate Childs
- Sexual Health and HIV Unit, Kings College Hospital, London, UK
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33
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Steininger L, Chromy D, Bauer D, Simbrunner B, Binter T, Schwabl P, Schmidbauer C, Trauner M, Gschwantler M, Mandorfer M, Reiberger T. Direct patient-physician communication via a hepatitis C hotline facilitates treatment initiation in patients with poor adherence. Wien Klin Wochenschr 2020; 133:452-460. [PMID: 33351152 PMCID: PMC8116284 DOI: 10.1007/s00508-020-01790-y] [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: 05/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Background Despite the availability of effective and well-tolerated direct acting antivirals (DAAs) against hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, a substantial number of HCV patients remain untreated. Novel strategies targeting HCV patients with poor adherence are urgently needed to enable HCV elimination. Methods We implemented a physician-operated HCV hotline (HCV-Phone) that was promoted within the patient community and referral networks. Previously diagnosed HCV patients were contacted via the HCV-Phone and offered low-barrier access to DAA therapy. Patients/referring physicians could directly call or send messages to the HCV-Phone. The HCV-Phone related and unrelated visits as well as DAA treatment initiations throughout 2019 were documented. Patients were followed until October 2020. This study analyzed treatment initiation, adherence to scheduled visits and outcomes in patients in whom management was assisted by the HCV-Phone. Results Out of 98 patient contacts via the HCV-Phone 74 attended treatment assessment at our clinic. While 15 (20%) patients were HCV-RNA negative and 1 (1%) patient did not initiate therapy, 58 patients were recruited for DAA therapy via the HCV-Phone. A total of 21 additional patients who started DAAs without HCV-Phone assistance required the use of the HCV-Phone infrastructure later on during treatment, resulting in a total of 79 HCV-Phone related DAA therapies. The poor adherence of patients previously diagnosed with HCV at our clinic is underlined by the long duration from HCV diagnosis to DAA therapy of median 37.0 months (IQR 2.7–181.1 months). A total of 55 (70%) HCV patients achieved a sustained virological response (SVR), 5 (6%) discontinued therapy, 1 (1%) had a reinfection, while 10 (13%) and 8 (10%) patients were lost during DAA therapy or follow-up, respectively. Conclusion The implementation of a physician-operated phone hotline for patients with HCV infection facilitated treatment initiation in an HCV population with poor adherence. Mainly due to losses to follow-up, the SVR rate remained suboptimal with 70%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Steininger
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria.,Vienna HIV & Liver Study Group, Vienna, Austria
| | - David Chromy
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria.,Vienna HIV & Liver Study Group, Vienna, Austria.,Division of Immunology, Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - David Bauer
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria.,Vienna HIV & Liver Study Group, Vienna, Austria
| | - Benedikt Simbrunner
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria.,Vienna HIV & Liver Study Group, Vienna, Austria
| | - Teresa Binter
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria.,Vienna HIV & Liver Study Group, Vienna, Austria
| | - Philipp Schwabl
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria.,Vienna HIV & Liver Study Group, Vienna, Austria
| | - Caroline Schmidbauer
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria.,Vienna HIV & Liver Study Group, Vienna, Austria.,Department of Internal Medicine IV, Wilhelminenspital, Wiener Krankenanstaltenverbund (KAV) der Stadt Wien, Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael Trauner
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael Gschwantler
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, Wilhelminenspital, Wiener Krankenanstaltenverbund (KAV) der Stadt Wien, Vienna, Austria
| | - Mattias Mandorfer
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria.,Vienna HIV & Liver Study Group, Vienna, Austria
| | - Thomas Reiberger
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria. .,Vienna HIV & Liver Study Group, Vienna, Austria.
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McLeod A, Hutchinson SJ, Smith S, Leen C, Clifford S, McAuley A, Wallace LA, Barclay ST, Bramley P, Dillon JF, Fraser A, Gunson RN, Hayes PC, Kennedy N, Peters E, Templeton K, Goldberg DJ. Increased case-finding and uptake of direct-acting antiviral treatment essential for micro-elimination of hepatitis C among people living with HIV: a national record linkage study. HIV Med 2020; 22:334-345. [PMID: 33350049 DOI: 10.1111/hiv.13032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Micro-elimination of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in people living with HIV (PLHIV) and co-infected with HCV has been proposed as a key contribution to the overall goal of HCV elimination. While other studies have examined micro-elimination in HIV-treated cohorts, few have considered HCV micro-elimination among those not treated for HIV or at a national level. METHODS Through data linkage of national and sentinel surveillance data, we examined the extent of HCV testing, diagnosis and treatment among a cohort of PLHIV in Scotland identified through the national database of HIV-diagnosed individuals, up to the end of 2017. RESULTS Of 5018 PLHIV, an estimated 797 (15%) had never been tested for HCV and 70 (9%) of these had undiagnosed chronic HCV. The odds of never having been tested for HCV were the highest in those not on HIV treatment [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 7.21, 95% confidence interval (CI): 5.15-10.10). Overall HCV antibody positivity was 11%, and it was at its highest among people who inject drugs (49%). Most of those with chronic HCV (91%) had attended an HCV treatment clinic but only half had been successfully treated (54% for those on HIV treatment, 12% for those not) by the end of 2017. The odds of never having been treated for HCV were the highest in those not on HIV treatment (aOR = 3.60, 95% CI: 1.59-8.15). CONCLUSIONS Our data demonstrate that micro-elimination of HCV in PLHIV is achievable but progress will require increased effort to engage and treat those co-infected, including those not being treated for their HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- A McLeod
- Health Protection Scotland, Glasgow, UK
| | - S J Hutchinson
- Health Protection Scotland, Glasgow, UK.,School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
| | - S Smith
- Health Protection Scotland, Glasgow, UK.,School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
| | - C Leen
- Regional Infectious Disease Unit, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh, UK
| | - S Clifford
- Regional Infectious Disease Unit, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh, UK
| | - A McAuley
- Health Protection Scotland, Glasgow, UK.,School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
| | | | | | - P Bramley
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK.,Stirling Royal Infirmary, Stirling, UK
| | - J F Dillon
- Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, Dundee, UK
| | - A Fraser
- Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow, UK
| | - R N Gunson
- West of Scotland Specialist Virology Centre, Glasgow Royal Infirmary, Glasgow, UK
| | - P C Hayes
- Royal Infirmary Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - N Kennedy
- University Hospital Monklands, Lanarkshire, UK
| | - E Peters
- The Brownlee Centre, Glasgow, UK
| | - K Templeton
- East of Scotland Specialist Virology Centre, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - D J Goldberg
- Health Protection Scotland, Glasgow, UK.,School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
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35
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Alshuwaykh O, Kwo PY. Current and future strategies for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C. Clin Mol Hepatol 2020; 27:246-256. [PMID: 33317245 PMCID: PMC8046635 DOI: 10.3350/cmh.2020.0230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis C infection is a major cause of liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma worldwide. While hepatitis C has been treated for decades with some success, the introduction of direct acting antiviral agents has revolutionized the treatment of hepatitis C with finite, highly effective, well-tolerated therapy and there are few populations that cannot be successfully treated now or are complicated to manage. The World Health Organization has released elimination targets in an effort to eliminate viral hepatitis and reduce dramatically the morbidity and mortality caused by both viral hepatitis. While hepatitis C is straightforward to treat, it remains problematic to eliminate on a global scale. Diagnosis of hepatitis C remains the major gap in the cascade of care and numerous screening strategies will be required to reduce this gap. While historically, treatment of hepatitis C has been centralized, decentralized approaches will be required to diagnose, evaluate, and link to care the large population of individuals worldwide with hepatitis C across low-, middle-, and high-income countries. With the introduction of multiple pangenotypic treatment options and reduced cost for these therapies, assessment and treatment for those with hepatitis C has been simplified and made more accessible worldwide. There are multiple populations for whom care models are being developed and refined, including those when inject drugs, those who are incarcerated, those who present with sexually transmitted disease including the men who have sex with men population, amongst many others. While a vaccine for hepatitis C remains elusive these efforts continue. Multiple successful elimination efforts have been reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar Alshuwaykh
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Paul Y Kwo
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
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36
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van Aar F, Kroone MM, de Vries HJ, Götz HM, van Benthem BH. Increasing trends of lymphogranuloma venereum among HIV-negative and asymptomatic men who have sex with men, the Netherlands, 2011 to 2017. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 25. [PMID: 32290900 PMCID: PMC7160438 DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es.2020.25.14.1900377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV), an invasive form of Chlamydia trachomatis infection, has been reported among (mainly HIV-positive) men who have sex with men (MSM) since 2003. In the Netherlands, LGV testing recommendations changed from selective to universal testing in 2015. Changes in tested populations could have led to incomparable LGV positivity rates over time. Aim We investigated LGV trends among MSM attending Centres for Sexual Health using surveillance data between 2011 and 2017. Methods LGV positivity was calculated among MSM tested for rectal Chlamydia infection and MSM tested specifically for LGV. With multivariable logistic regression analysis, the association between years and LGV was adjusted for testing indicators and determinants. Results We included 224,194 consultations. LGV increased from 86 in 2011 to 270 in 2017. Among LGV-positives, proportions of HIV-negative and asymptomatic MSM increased from 17.4% to 45.6% and from 31.4% to 49.3%, respectively, between 2011 and 2017. Among MSM tested for rectal chlamydia, LGV positivity increased from 0.12% to 0.33% among HIV-negatives and remained stable around 2.5% among HIV-positives. Among LGV-tested MSM, LGV positivity increased from 2.1% to 5.7% among HIV-negatives and from 15.1% to 22.1% among HIV-positives. Multivariable models showed increased odds ratios and significant positive associations between years and LGV. Conclusions Although increased testing and changes in LGV incidence are difficult to disentangle, we found increasing LGV trends, especially when corrected for confounding. LGV was increasingly attributed to HIV-negative and asymptomatic MSM, among whom testing was previously limited. This stresses the importance of universal testing and continuous surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fleur van Aar
- Centre of Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and Environment, Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - Michelle M Kroone
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service (GGD) Amsterdam, Amsterdam
| | - Henry Jc de Vries
- Department of Dermatology, Amsterdam Institute for Infections and Immunity (AI&II), Amsterdam University Medical Centres, Location Academic Medical Centre, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service (GGD) Amsterdam, Amsterdam
| | - Hannelore M Götz
- Department of Infectious Disease Control, Municipal Public Health Service, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.,Centre of Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and Environment, Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - Birgit Hb van Benthem
- Centre of Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and Environment, Bilthoven, the Netherlands
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Recently acquired and early chronic hepatitis C in MSM: Recommendations from the European treatment network for HIV, hepatitis and global infectious diseases consensus panel. AIDS 2020; 34:1699-1711. [PMID: 32694411 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000002622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
: In response to growing evidence of an expanding epidemic of sexually acquired hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in HIV-positive MSM, the European AIDS Treatment Network (NEAT) acute hepatitis C consensus panel developed their first recommendations for HCV prevention and care during a consensus conference in May 2010 in Paris, France. As then, two major breakthroughs have changed the landscape. First, directly acting antivirals (DAA) with high levels of tolerability and HCV cure rates of over 95% are now widely available and will play a large role in the goal of elimination of HCV by 2030 (WHO sector strategy). Second, landmark studies demonstrated that universal test and treatment (UTT) approach as well as the demonstration that HIV cannot be sexually transmitted from a person living with HIV with an undetectable viraemia [undetectable = untransmittable (U = U) campaign] and HIV preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) are very effective HIV biomedical prevention strategies for MSM. The scale-up of these interventions has reduced HIV incidence in MSM and also changed patterns of sexual networks and behaviour, which has contributed to increased HCV incidence among HIV-negative MSM who were eligible for or on PrEP. These recent developments, together with new clinical and scientific insights, underscore the importance of updating the statements and recommendations for acute HCV in both HIV-positive and HIV-negative MSM. In June 2019, experts from different disciplines and organizations including community representatives participated at the second acute HCV consensus conference of NEAT Infectious Diseases (ID) in Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
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Ramière C, Charre C, Miailhes P, Bailly F, Radenne S, Uhres AC, Brochier C, Godinot M, Chiarello P, Pradat P, Cotte L, Augustin-Normand C, François B, Biron F, Boibieux A, Brochier C, Braun E, Brunel F, Charre C, Chiarello P, Chidiac C, Cotte L, Ferry T, Godinot M, Guillaud O, Koffi J, Livrozet JM, Makhloufi D, Miailhes P, Perpoint T, Pradat P, Radenne S, Ramière C, Schlienger I, Scholtes C, Schuffenecker I, Tardy JC, Trabaud MA, Uhres AC. Patterns of Hepatitis C Virus Transmission in Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)-infected and HIV-negative Men Who Have Sex With Men. Clin Infect Dis 2020; 69:2127-2135. [PMID: 30810158 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciz160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2018] [Accepted: 02/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexually transmitted acute hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections (AHIs) have been mainly described in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected men who have sex with men (MSM). Cases in HIV-negative MSM are scarce. We describe the epidemic of AHI in HIV-infected and HIV-negative MSM in Lyon, France. METHODS All cases of AHI diagnosed in MSM in Lyon University Hospital from 2014 to 2017 were included. AHI incidence was determined in HIV-infected and in preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP)-using MSM. Transmission clusters were identified by construction of phylogenetic trees based on HCV NS5B (genotype 1a/4d) or NS5A (genotype 3a) Sanger sequencing. RESULTS From 2014 to 2017, 108 AHIs (80 first infections, 28 reinfections) were reported in 96 MSM (HIV-infected, 72; HIV-negative, 24). AHI incidence rose from 1.1/100 person-years (95 confidence interval [CI], 0.7-1.7) in 2014 to 2.4/100 person-years (95 CI, 1.1-2.6) in 2017 in HIV-infected MSM (P = .05) and from 0.3/100 person-years (95 CI, 0.06-1.0) in 2016 to 3.4/100 person-years (95 CI, 2.0-5.5) in 2017 in PrEP users (P < .001). Eleven clusters were identified. All clusters included HIV-infected MSM; 6 also included HIV-negative MSM. All clusters started with ≥1 HIV-infected MSM. Risk factor distribution varied among clusters. CONCLUSIONS AHI incidence increased in both HIV-infected and HIV-negative MSM. Cluster analysis suggests initial transmission from HIV-infected to HIV-negative MSM through chemsex and traumatic sexual practices, leading to mixed patterns of transmission regardless of HIV status and no overlap with the general population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christophe Ramière
- Virology Laboratory, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital de la Croix-Rousse, Lyon, France.,Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie, INSERM, CNRS UMR, Lyon, France.,University of Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon, Villeurbanne, France
| | - Caroline Charre
- Virology Laboratory, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital de la Croix-Rousse, Lyon, France.,University of Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon, Villeurbanne, France.,INSERM U1052, Lyon, France
| | - Patrick Miailhes
- Infectious Diseases Department, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital de la Croix-Rousse, Lyon, France
| | - François Bailly
- Hepatology Department, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital de la Croix-Rousse, Lyon, France
| | - Sylvie Radenne
- Hepatology Department, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital de la Croix-Rousse, Lyon, France
| | - Anne-Claire Uhres
- Pharmacy, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital de la Croix-Rousse, Lyon, France
| | - Corinne Brochier
- Clinical Research Centre, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital de la Croix-Rousse, Lyon, France
| | - Matthieu Godinot
- Infectious Diseases Department, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital de la Croix-Rousse, Lyon, France
| | - Pierre Chiarello
- Infectious Diseases Department, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital de la Croix-Rousse, Lyon, France
| | - Pierre Pradat
- Clinical Research Centre, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital de la Croix-Rousse, Lyon, France
| | - Laurent Cotte
- Infectious Diseases Department, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital de la Croix-Rousse, Lyon, France.,INSERM U1052, Lyon, France
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Hepatitis C virus-microelimination program and patient trajectories after hepatitis C virus cure in an outpatient HIV clinical unit. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2020; 32:1212-1221. [PMID: 31851097 DOI: 10.1097/meg.0000000000001640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Treatment recommendations for hepatitis C now make no distinction between HIV/HCV-coinfected and HCV-monoinfected patients. The largest challenge remained lack of effective models to eliminate HCV in people living with HIV. We report the results of a microelimination program evaluating the possibility of eradicating HCV in an HIV-outpatient clinical unit within 12 months. METHODS This HCV-microelimination program began in February 2016 in an unit following approximately 1000 HIV-infected patients and combined screening and therapeutic components according to the French guideline. A nested cohort study evaluating the impact of HCV cure on different health outcomes was conducted through self-administered questionnaires and using generalized mixed models. RESULTS Among 601 patients eligible for HCV serological testing, 445 were evaluated, and two HCV acute infections were diagnosed. Among the 151 patients eligible for HCV RNA quantification, 119 were evaluated, and one reinfection with HCV was diagnosed. Among the 110 patients eligible for direct-acting antiviral treatment, 51 (46.4%) initiated treatment within the 12 months program, and 35 (31.8%) after. Sustained virologic response (SVR) rate was 96.1%, and two treatments failed. At least one self-reported symptom was declared by 72.5% (n = 29) of patients. Positive impact of HCV cure was observed on various markers of physical and mental health as well as on health habits. CONCLUSION Our program should be considered as a proof of concept, which confirmed the feasibility of a HCV-microelimination program at the scale of an HIV clinical unit. However, 12 months were not sufficient to achieve our objective despite the specific organization.
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Desai M, White E, Vora N, Gilson R, Lacey C, Gafos M, Clarke A, Sullivan A, White D, Fox J, Piontkowsky D, McCormack S, Dunn DT. High incidence of Hepatitis C virus infection observed in the PROUD study of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis. J Viral Hepat 2020; 27:852-857. [PMID: 32243033 PMCID: PMC8432138 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2019] [Revised: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Monica Desai
- MRC Clinical Trials Unit at UCLLondonUK
- Present address:
National Institute for Health and Care ExcellenceManchesterUK
| | | | - Nina Vora
- UCL Centre for Clinical Research in Infection and Sexual HealthInstitute for Global HealthThe Mortimer Market CentreLondonUK
| | - Richard Gilson
- UCL Centre for Clinical Research in Infection and Sexual HealthInstitute for Global HealthThe Mortimer Market CentreLondonUK
| | | | - Mitzy Gafos
- MRC Clinical Trials Unit at UCLLondonUK
- Present address:
London School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineLondonUK
| | - Amanda Clarke
- Brighton and Hove Sexual Health & Contraception CentreRoyal Sussex County HospitalBrightonUK
| | - Ann Sullivan
- Chelsea and Westminster NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
| | - David White
- Heart of England NHS Foundation TrustBirminghamUK
| | - Julie Fox
- Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Although cities present opportunities for infectious pathogens such as HIV to spread, public health infrastructure within these cities also provides opportunities to design effective approaches to eliminate transmission of these pathogens. The HIV Transmission Elimination AMsterdam (H-TEAM) Initiative, a consortium of relevant stakeholders involved in HIV prevention and care, designed an integrated approach to curb the HIV epidemic in Amsterdam, including providing preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP), increasing awareness of acute HIV infection, offering same-day test and treat, and improving indicator disease-driven HIV testing. RECENT FINDINGS In 2013, approximately 230 people in Amsterdam were newly diagnosed with HIV, largely belonging to one of two key affected populations, namely MSM and people with a migration background. Since the start of H-TEAM in 2014, a decrease in new diagnoses was observed (130 in 2017), with an increasing proportion of MSM who had been diagnosed with a recent infection. SUMMARY The H-TEAM shows that a city-based concerted effort is feasible. However, major challenges remain, such as reducing the number of late HIV diagnoses, and identifying and providing appropriate services to a diminishing group of individuals who are likely the source of transmission.
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van de Vijver DAMC, Richter AK, Boucher CAB, Gunsenheimer-Bartmeyer B, Kollan C, Nichols BE, Spinner CD, Wasem J, Schewe K, Neumann A. Cost-effectiveness and budget effect of pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV-1 prevention in Germany from 2018 to 2058. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 24. [PMID: 30782266 PMCID: PMC6381659 DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es.2019.24.7.1800398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BackgroundPre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a highly effective HIV prevention strategy for men-who-have-sex-with-men (MSM). The high cost of PrEP has until recently been a primary barrier to its use. In 2017, generic PrEP became available, reducing the costs by 90%.AimOur objective was to assess cost-effectiveness and costs of introducing PrEP in Germany.MethodsWe calibrated a deterministic mathematical model to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemic among MSM in Germany. PrEP was targeted to 30% of high-risk MSM. It was assumed that PrEP reduces the risk of HIV infection by 85%. Costs were calculated from a healthcare payer perspective using a 40-year time horizon starting in 2018.ResultsPrEP can avert 21,000 infections (interquartile range (IQR): 16,000-27,000) in the short run (after 2 years scale-up and 10 years full implementation). HIV care is predicted to cost EUR 36.2 billion (IQR: 32.4-40.4 billion) over the coming 40 years. PrEP can increase costs by at most EUR 150 million within the first decade after introduction. Ten years after introduction, PrEP can become cost-saving, accumulating to savings of HIV-related costs of EUR 5.1 billion (IQR: 3.5-6.9 billion) after 40 years. In a sensitivity analysis, PrEP remained cost-saving even at a 70% price reduction of antiretroviral drug treatment and a lower effectiveness of PrEP.ConclusionIntroduction of PrEP in Germany is predicted to result in substantial health benefits because of reductions in HIV infections. Short-term financial investments in providing PrEP will result in substantial cost-savings in the long term.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ann-Kathrin Richter
- Institute for Health Care Management and Research, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | | | | | - Christian Kollan
- Department for Infectious Disease epidemiology, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Brooke E Nichols
- Health Economics and Epidemiology Research Office, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,Department of Global Health, Boston University, Boston, United States.,Viroscience department, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Christoph D Spinner
- dagnä (Deutsche Arbeitsgemeinschaft niedergelassener Ärzte in der Versorgung HIV-Infizierter), Berlin, Germany.,Department of Medicine II, University Hospital Klinikum rechts der Isar, Munich, Germany
| | - Jürgen Wasem
- Institute for Health Care Management and Research, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Knud Schewe
- dagnä (Deutsche Arbeitsgemeinschaft niedergelassener Ärzte in der Versorgung HIV-Infizierter), Berlin, Germany
| | - Anja Neumann
- Institute for Health Care Management and Research, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
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Kruize Z, Maurer I, van Dort KA, van den Elshout MAM, Hoornenborg E, Booiman T, Prins M, Kootstra NA. Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Negative Men Who Have Sex With Men Have an Altered T-Cell Phenotype and Bioenergy Metabolism. Open Forum Infect Dis 2020; 7:ofaa284. [PMID: 32782910 PMCID: PMC7408207 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofaa284] [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: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background We recently reported that the levels of activation, exhaustion, and terminal differentiation within the peripheral T-cell compartment were increased in men who have sex with men (MSM) compared with blood bank donors. During activation and differentiation, T cells undergo metabolic changes to maintain their energy demand. Methods The effect of cytomeglovirus (CMV) infection and risk behavior on the immune phenotype of peripheral T cells and the immune bioenergy metabolism profile in human immunodeficiency virus-negative MSM (with high or low sexual risk behavior) and blood bank donors was evaluated. Results Men who have sex with men exhibited increased levels of T-cell activation and terminal differentiation and an impairment of the bioenergy metabolism (mitochondrial respiration and glycolysis) compared with blood bank donors. Cytomeglovirus infection was associated with increased terminal differentiation of CD4+ (B = 3.41; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.98–4.85; P < .0001) and CD8+ T cells (CD57+: B = 1.21, 95% CI = 0.41–2.02, P = .004; CD27−CD28−: B = 2.20, 95% CI = 1.21–3.18, P < .0001; and CD57+ of CD28−: B = 1.02, 95% CI = 0.38–1.66, P = .002) and increased glycolysis (B = 0.97; 95% CI, 0.27–1.67; P = .007). Risk behavior was associated with increase activation of CD4+ T cells (B = 0.22; 95% CI, 0.07–0.37; P = .005), increased terminal differentiation of CD4+ (B = 0.82; 95% CI, 0.44–1.20; P < .0001) and CD8+ T cells (B = 1.55; 95% CI, 0.58–2.51; P = .002), and decreased glycolysis (glycolysis: B = −0.40, 95% CI = −0.68 to 0.12, P = .006; and glycolytic capacity: B = −0.54, 95% CI = −0.91 to 0.16, P = .005). Conclusions Men who have sex with men show an increased prevalence of bloodborne and sexually transmitted infection, indicating that immunological changes in the T-cell population and the bioenergy metabolism observed in MSM can most likely be attributed to chronic antigen exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zita Kruize
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Infection & Immunity Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Irma Maurer
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Infection & Immunity Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Karel A van Dort
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Infection & Immunity Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Mark A M van den Elshout
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and Prevention, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Elske Hoornenborg
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and Prevention, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Thijs Booiman
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Infection & Immunity Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Halix, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Maria Prins
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and Prevention, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Infection & Immunity Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Neeltje A Kootstra
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Infection & Immunity Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Bradshaw D, Vasylyeva TI, Davis C, Pybus OG, Thézé J, Thomson EC, Martinello M, Matthews GV, Burholt R, Gilleece Y, Cooke GS, Page EE, Waters L, Nelson M. Transmission of hepatitis C virus in HIV-positive and PrEP-using MSM in England. J Viral Hepat 2020; 27:721-730. [PMID: 32115809 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2019] [Revised: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
We sought to characterize risk factors and patterns of HCV transmission amongst men who have sex with men (MSM). MSM with recently acquired HCV (AHCV) were prospectively recruited ('clinic cohort') between January and September 2017. Clinical data and risk behaviours were identified and blood obtained for HCV whole genome sequencing. Phylogenetic analyses were performed, using sequences from this cohort and two other AHCV cohorts, to identify transmission clusters. Sixteen (40.0%) men in the clinic cohort were HIV-negative MSM. HIV-negative MSM were younger than HIV-positive MSM; most (81.3%) had taken HIV PrEP in the preceding year. Eighteen men (45.0%) reported injection drug use; most (34, 85.0%) reported noninjection drug use in the last year. Most in both groups reported condomless anal sex, fisting and sex in a group environment. Few (7, 17.5%) men thought partners may have had HCV. There were 52 sequences in the HCV genotype 1a phylogeny, 18 from the clinic cohort and 34 from other AHCV cohorts; 47 (90.4%) clustered with ≥1 other sequence. There were 7 clusters of 2-27 sequences; 6 clusters contained HIV-negative and HIV-positive MSM and 1 cluster only HIV-positive MSM. Four of these clusters were part of larger clusters first described in 2007. PrEP-using MSM are at risk of HCV, sharing similar risk factors to HIV-positive MSM. Phylogenetics highlights that PrEP-using and HIV-positive MSM are involved in the same HCV transmission networks. Few men demonstrated HCV awareness and risk reduction strategies should be expanded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Bradshaw
- Department of HIV and Sexual Health, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | - Chris Davis
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow, UK
| | | | - Julien Thézé
- Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Emma C Thomson
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow, UK
| | | | - Gail V Matthews
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ruth Burholt
- Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust, Brighton, UK
| | - Yvonne Gilleece
- Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust, Brighton, UK
| | | | - Emma E Page
- Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | | | - Mark Nelson
- Department of HIV and Sexual Health, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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Grov C, Westmoreland DA, Carrico AW, Nash D. Are we on the precipice of a new epidemic? Risk for hepatitis C among HIV-negative men-, trans women-, and trans men- who have sex with men in the United States. AIDS Care 2020; 32:74-82. [PMID: 32172589 PMCID: PMC7312766 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2020.1739204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Emerging data from Europe have documented increases in diagnoses of acute hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection among HIV-negative men who have sex with men. We investigated risk factors for HCV and their correlates in the Together 5000 study, a U.S. national cohort study of HIV-negative men (n = 6089), transgender women (n = 40), and transgender men (n = 42) who have sex with men. We used bivariate and multivariable analyses to determine demographic and behavioral factors associated with high risk for acute HCV infection (using the HCV-MOSAIC risk indicator with a score ≥ 2.0). Mean HCV risk score was 1.38 (SD = 1.09) and 27.3% of participants had HCV risk scores ≥ 2.0. In multivariable modeling, being cisgender male (vs. not) was associated with having a lower HCV-MOSAIC risk score. Meanwhile, being white, having been incarcerated, prior use of HIV pre- or post-exposure prophylaxis, having ever been tested for HIV, and recent methamphetamine use were associated with high risk for HCV. More than one-in-four participants exceeded the threshold score for HCV risk. Those with high HCV-MOSAIC risk scores were more likely to have been in settings where they could be tested for acute HCV (i.e., HIV testing, PrEP care, PEP care, incarceration), suggesting opportunities to engage them in HCV screening, prevention, and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Grov
- CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY
- CUNY Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, New York, NY
| | | | - Adam W. Carrico
- Departments of Public Health Sciences and Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, USA
| | - Denis Nash
- CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY
- CUNY Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, New York, NY
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Hoornenborg E, Coyer L, Boyd A, Achterbergh RCA, Schim van der Loeff MF, Bruisten S, de Vries HJC, Koopsen J, van de Laar TJW, Prins M, de Bree G, Brokx P, Deug F, Heidenrijk M, Prins M, Reiss P, van der Valk M, van Bergen J, de Bree G, Brokx P, Davidovich U, Geerlings S, Hoornenborg E, Oomen A, Sighem AV, Zuilhof W, Bruinderink MG, Achterbergh R, van Agtmael M, Ananworanich J, Van de Beek D, van den Berk G, Bezemer D, van Bijnen A, Blok W, Bogers S, Bomers M, Boucher C, Brokking W, Burger D, Brinkman K, Brinkman N, de Bruin M, Bruisten S, Coyer L, van Crevel R, Daans C, Dellemann L, Dijkstra M, van Duijnhoven Y, van Eeden A, Elsenburg L, van den Elshout M, Ester C, Ersan E, Felipa P, Frissen P, Geijtenbeek T, Godfried M, van Gool J, Goorhuis A, Groot M, Hankins C, Heijnen A, Hillebregt M, Hogewoning A, Hommenga M, Hovius J, Janssen Y, de Jong K, Jongen V, Kootstra N, Koup R, Kroon F, van de Laar T, Lauw F, van Leeuwen M, Lettinga K, Linde I, Loomans D, van der Meer J, Mouhebati T, Mulder B, Mulder J, Nellen F, Nijsters A, Nobel H, Oostvogel P, Op de Coul E, Peters E, Peters I, van der Poll T, Ratmann O, Rokx C, van Rooijen M, Schim van der Loeff M, Schoute W, Sonder G, Veenstra J, Verbon A, Verdult F, de Vocht J, de Vries H, Vrouenraets S, van Vugt M, Wiersinga W, Wit F, Woittiez L, Zaheri S, Zantkuijl P, van Zelm M, Żakowicz A, Zimmermann H. High incidence of HCV in HIV-negative men who have sex with men using pre-exposure prophylaxis. J Hepatol 2020; 72:855-864. [PMID: 31862485 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2019.11.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Revised: 10/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS HCV has emerged as a sexually transmitted infection (STI) among HIV-positive men who have sex with men (MSM). We evaluated HCV incidence and its risk factors among HIV-negative MSM using HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). METHODS Participants of the Amsterdam PrEP project were tested for HCV antibodies or HCV-RNA every 6 months. Participants used daily or event-driven PrEP and could switch regimens during follow-up. We calculated incidence rates (IRs) for overall HCV infection and separately for primary and re-infection. A univariable Bayesian exponential survival model was used to identify risk factors associated with incident HCV infection. The HCV NS5B gene fragment (709 bp) was sequenced and compared to HCV isolates from HIV-positive MSM and other risk groups (n = 419) using phylogenetic analysis. RESULTS Among 350 participants contributing 653.6 person-years (PYs), we detected 15 HCV infections in 14 participants (IR = 2.30/100PY). There were 8 primary infections (IR = 1.27/100PY) and 7 re-infections (IR = 27.8/100PY). IR was 2.71/100PY in daily and 1.15/100PY in event-driven PrEP users. Factors associated with incident HCV infection were higher number of receptive condomless anal sex acts with casual partners (posterior hazard ratio [HR] 1.57 per ln increase; 95% credibility interval [CrI] 1.09-2.20), anal STI (posterior HR 2.93; 95% CrI 1.24-7.13), injecting drug use (posterior HR 4.69; 95% CrI 1.61-12.09) and sharing straws when snorting drugs (posterior HR 2.62; 95% CrI 1.09-6.02). We identified robust MSM-specific HCV clusters of subtypes 1a, 4d, 2b and 3a, which included MSM with and without HIV. CONCLUSIONS HIV-negative MSM using PrEP are at risk of incident HCV infection, while identified risk factors are similar to those in HIV-positive MSM. Regular HCV testing is needed, especially for those with a previous HCV infection and those reporting risk factors. LAY SUMMARY We report that hepatitis C virus infections are frequently acquired among HIV-negative men who have sex with men (MSM) using pre-exposure prophylaxis to prevent HIV infection. New infections occurred more frequently in those reporting receptive anal sex without using condoms, having an anal sexually transmitted infection, injecting drugs, and sharing straws when snorting drugs. The viruses found in HIV-negative men using pre-exposure prophylaxis are genetically similar to those in HIV-positive men, but not in other hepatitis C risk groups, suggesting that (sexual) transmission is occurring between HIV-positive MSM and HIV-negative MSM using pre-exposure prophylaxis. CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER Dutch trial registration number NTR5411.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elske Hoornenborg
- Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Department of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Liza Coyer
- Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Department of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Anders Boyd
- Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Department of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Stichting HIV Monitoring, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Maarten Franciscus Schim van der Loeff
- Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Department of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam University medical Centers, (UMC), Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Department of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam Infection & Immunity Institute (AI&II), Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Sylvia Bruisten
- Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Department of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Henry John Christiaan de Vries
- Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Department of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Academic Medical Center, Department of Dermatology, Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity (AI&II), Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Jelle Koopsen
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Academic Medical Center, Clinical Virology Laboratory, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Thijs J W van de Laar
- Department of Donor Medicine Research, Laboratory of Blood-borne Infections, Sanquin Research, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Laboratory of Medical Microbiology, Onze Lieve Vrouwe Gasthuis, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Maria Prins
- Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Department of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam University medical Centers, (UMC), Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Department of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam Infection & Immunity Institute (AI&II), Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Brener L, Murphy DA, Ellard J, Cama E, Fraser N, Murray J. Knowledge, attitudes and practices related to hepatitis C among gay and bisexual men in the era of direct-acting antivirals: implications for treatment and prevention. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2020; 22:551-567. [PMID: 31131720 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2019.1615125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2018] [Accepted: 05/01/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Increases in hepatitis C (HCV) infections among gay and bisexual men have recently been reported in a number of countries, with sexual transmission being the primary route of infection. Given that in countries such as Australia most gay and bisexual men living with HIV are already engaged in clinical care - as are an increasing number of HIV-negative men - there is potential for reducing onward HCV transmission through proactive testing and treatment. This study explored knowledge, attitudes and practices related to HCV among 194 gay and bisexual men collected through an online survey in Australia. Overall, respondents had high levels of HCV knowledge; however, only 76% knew about the availability of new treatments for HCV. Men's knowledge of their own HCV testing history was uncertain, with one in six unaware if they had ever been tested. Among men who reported recent drug injecting, one-third had been injected by someone else, and two-thirds had injected someone else, indicating a subculture of cross-administering within sexualised drug-use networks. We argue that the robust sexual, socio-cultural and clinical infrastructure that has been developed by - and for - gay and bisexual men around HIV care and prevention creates the potential for reducing HCV in this group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loren Brener
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Dean A Murphy
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Department of Gender and Cultural Studies, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Kirby Institute for Infection and Immunity in Society, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jeanne Ellard
- Australian Federation of AIDS Organisations, Newtown, NSW, Australia
| | - Elena Cama
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Neil Fraser
- Positive Life NSW, Surry Hills, NSW, Australia
| | - Joel Murray
- Positive Life NSW, Surry Hills, NSW, Australia
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Shared HCV Transmission Networks Among HIV-1-Positive and HIV-1-Negative Men Having Sex With Men by Ultradeep Sequencing. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2020; 82:105-110. [PMID: 31169768 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Several studies reported hepatitis C virus (HCV) transmission networks among men having sex with men (MSM) in Europe and the spread of HCV strains from HIV-HCV coinfected toward HCV monoinfected MSM. We aimed to investigate HCV transmission dynamics among HIV-positive and HIV-negative MSM by ultradeep sequencing (UDS). DESIGN AND METHODS NS5B fragment (388 bp) was sequenced from virus of 50 HIV-positive and 18 HIV-negative patients diagnosed with recent HCV infection. UDS data were analyzed by Geneious (version 10.3.2). Phylogenetic trees were constructed by FastTree (version 2.1) and submitted to ClusterPicker (version 1.2.3) for transmission chain detection at different thresholds of maximum genetic distance (MGD) (3% for Sanger, 3% and 4.5% for UDS). RESULTS Ten, 17, and 18 HCV transmission chains were identified by Sanger at 3%, UDS at 3% and at 4.5% of MGD, respectively. Of 68 subjects enrolled, 38 (55.9%), 38 (55.9%), and 43 (65.3%) individuals were involved in transmission networks found by Sanger at 3%, UDS at 3%, and at 4.5% of MGD, respectively. Mixed transmission chains including HIV-positive and HIV-negative subjects were detected for 8/10 chains by Sanger at 3%, for 9/17 by UDS at 3%, and for 10/18 by UDS at 4.5% of MGD. Overall, the number of HIV-negative individuals clustering with HIV-positive ones was 9/18 by Sanger, 9/18 by UDS at 3%, and 10/18 by UDS at 4.5% of MGD. CONCLUSIONS HIV-positive and HIV-negative MSM shared HCV transmission networks, which emphasizes the need for HCV surveillance and prevention measures in these communities regardless of the HIV status.
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Abstract
Hepatitis C virus is a global public health threat, affecting 71 million people worldwide. Increasing recognition of the impact of this epidemic and recent advances in biomedical and technical approaches to hepatitis C prevention and cure have provided impetus for the World Health Organization (WHO) to call for global elimination of hepatitis C as a public health threat by 2030. This work reviews the feasibility of hepatitis C elimination and pathways to overcome existing and potential future barriers to elimination. Drawing on cost-effectiveness modeling and providing examples of successful implementation efforts across the globe, we highlight the resources and strategies needed to achieve hepatitis C elimination. A timely, multipronged response is required if the 2030 WHO elimination targets are to be achieved. Importantly, achieving hepatitis C elimination will also benefit the community well beyond 2030.
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Nijmeijer BM, Eder J, Langedijk CJM, Kaptein TM, Meeussen S, Zimmermann P, Ribeiro CMS, Geijtenbeek TBH. Syndecan 4 Upregulation on Activated Langerhans Cells Counteracts Langerin Restriction to Facilitate Hepatitis C Virus Transmission. Front Immunol 2020; 11:503. [PMID: 32292405 PMCID: PMC7118926 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Sexually transmitted Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections and high reinfections are a major concern amongst men who have sex with men (MSM) living with HIV-1 and HIV-negative MSM. Immune activation and/or HIV-1 coinfection enhance HCV susceptibility via sexual contact, suggesting that changes in immune cells or external factors are involved in increased susceptibility. Activation of anal mucosal Langerhans cells (LCs) has been implicated in increased HCV susceptibility as activated but not immature LCs efficiently retain and transmit HCV to other cells. However, the underlying molecular mechanism of transmission remains unclear. Here we identified the Heparan Sulfate Proteoglycan Syndecan 4 as the molecular switch, controlling HCV transmission by LCs. Syndecan 4 was highly upregulated upon activation of LCs and interference with Heparan Sulfate Proteoglycans or silencing of Syndecan 4 abrogated HCV transmission. These data strongly suggest that Syndecan 4 mediates HCV transmission by activated LCs. Notably, our data also identified the C-type lectin receptor langerin as a restriction factor for HCV infection and transmission. Langerin expression abrogated HCV infection in HCV permissive cells, whereas langerin expression on the Syndecan 4 expressing cell line strongly decreased HCV transmission to a target hepatoma cell line. These data suggest that the balanced interplay between langerin restriction and Syndecan 4 transmission determines HCV dissemination. Silencing of langerin enhanced HCV transmission whereas silencing Syndecan 4 on activated LCs decreased transmission. Blocking Heparan Sulfate Proteoglycans abrogated HCV transmission by LCs ex vivo identifying Heparan Sulfate Proteoglycans and Syndecan 4 as potential targets to prevent sexual transmission of HCV. Thus, our data strongly suggest that the interplay between receptors promotes or restricts transmission and further indicate that Syndecan 4 is the molecular switch controlling HCV susceptibility after sexual contact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernadien M. Nijmeijer
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Julia Eder
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Catharina J. M. Langedijk
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Tanja M. Kaptein
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Sofie Meeussen
- Department of Human Genetics, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Pascale Zimmermann
- Department of Human Genetics, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Marseille, Equipe labellisée Ligue 2018, Aix-Marseille Université, Inserm, CNRS, Institut Paoli Calmettes, Marseille, France
| | - Carla M. S. Ribeiro
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Teunis B. H. Geijtenbeek
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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