Efficacy of postexposure prophylaxis after intravaginal exposure of pig-tailed macaques to a human-derived retrovirus (human immunodeficiency virus type 2)

Readiness for HIV Postexposure Prophylaxis (PEP) Decision Making Following Sexual Violence

HIV post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) can reduce the risk of acquiring HIV infection following sexual assault. However, only about half of people offered HIV PEP will initiate the medication. Factors associated with patient readiness for HIV PEP following sexual assault have been attributed to structural and clinical barriers. This study utilized the Theory of Reasoned Action and Planned Behavior to better understand how personal factors, cognitive factors, mental health, barriers and facilitators that could influence a patient's decision to start HIV PEP post sexual assault. A web-based cross sectional survey was conducted from October 2017 to January 2020 and a total of 228 responses were included from participants that had experienced sexual assault in the previous 3 months. Using linear regression modeling fear of HIV, post-traumatic stress symptoms, validating social responses to disclosure, and having someone else pay for HIV PEP were all associated with feeling better prepared for HIV PEP decision making. Results indicate that structural, social, and individual factors impact patient decision making. These findings highlight opportunities for health systems and providers to improve HIV education and the importance of initiating HIV PEP following sexual assault.

Evaluation of Pediatric HIV Postexposure Prophylaxis Guideline Following Child Sexual Assault in Western Australia

BACKGROUND

HIV postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) following child sexual assault (CSA) is recommended in select cases. High rates of poor adherence to PEP are reported. We evaluated adherence to the recommended management of children following CSA at the tertiary pediatric facility in Western Australia and compared our approach with international guidelines.

METHODS

Medical records were reviewed for all children <16 years old assessed at Perth Children's Hospital between October 1, 2016 and November 30, 2020 following alleged CSA. Data, including exposure type, PEP adherence and follow-up, were collected. A review of contemporary national and international PEP guidelines was undertaken in parallel.

RESULTS

There were 511 alleged CSA events over the study period; 62/511 (12%) were appropriately risk-assessed as requiring PEP by the treating clinician. PEP was not prescribed in 8/62 (13%) events, with a reason documented for 6/8 (75%). Overall, less than half of children who were eligible for PEP were adherent to the 28-day regimen (23/54, 43%). Gastrointestinal upset contributed to early cessation in 5/54 (9%). Final 3-month blood-borne virus serology results were available in less than one in 3 children. A review of international clinical practice revealed significant heterogeneity of criteria for the provision of PEP and a paucity of pediatric-specific data.

CONCLUSIONS

We identified several areas of our PEP management that required strengthening, with limited direction available in current international guidelines. We have adopted a broader use of fixed drug combinations and implemented a multifaceted follow-up program. It will be essential to review the impact of these changes.

Missed Opportunities: A Narrative Review on Why Nonoccupational Postexposure Prophylaxis for HIV Is Underutilized

Postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) is an important tool for preventing HIV infection but remains underutilized. In this narrative review, we aim to summarize the frequency of missed opportunities for prescribing PEP among studies from around the world, discuss the complexities of the challenges facing PEP provision, and describe possible solutions. We identified 20 studies published in the last 10 years among 43 832 individuals, of whom an estimated 41 477 were eligible for PEP. Of those eligible for PEP, PEP was prescribed among 27 705 (66.8%). There was a significant difference in PEP prescriptions in acute compared with non-acute care settings (63.5% vs 94.5%; P < .001). Emergent themes contributing to PEP underutilization included lack of provider and patient awareness, reduced PEP acceptability, HIV stigma and homophobia, lack of access (either to care or to medication), and stigmatizing policies. Each of those issues should be the focus of future PEP implementation efforts.

A behavioral economics approach to enhancing HIV preexposure and postexposure prophylaxis implementation

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The 'PrEP cliff' phenomenon poses a critical challenge in global HIV PrEP implementation, marked by significant dropouts across the entire PrEP care continuum. This article reviews new strategies to address 'PrEP cliff'.

RECENT FINDINGS

Canadian clinicians have developed a service delivery model that offers presumptive PEP to patients in need and transits eligible PEP users to PrEP. Early findings are promising. This service model not only establishes a safety net for those who were not protected by PrEP, but it also leverages the immediate salience and perceived benefits of PEP as a natural nudge towards PrEP use. Aligning with Behavioral Economics, specifically the Salience Theory, this strategy holds potential in tackling PrEP implementation challenges.

SUMMARY

A natural pathway between PEP and PrEP has been widely observed. The Canadian service model exemplifies an innovative strategy that leverages this organic pathway and enhances the utility of both PEP and PrEP services. We offer theoretical insights into the reasons behind these PEP-PrEP transitions and evolve the Canadian model into a cohesive framework for implementation.

Characteristics and rates of infection by HIV in people receiving non-occupational post-exposure prophylaxis (nPEP) against HIV

INTRODUCTION/OBJECTIVES

The use of non-occupational post-exposure prophylaxis (nPEP) emerges as a strategic intervention to reduce HIV infection risk following sexual encounters in our setting. Notwithstanding, there is a scarcity of contemporary data regarding adherence to this treatment, its effectiveness and tolerance. Our study aims to delve into these factors among individuals who have resorted to nPEP after high-risk sexual encounters.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective observational study of cases administered nPEP for HIV from 1 January 2018 to 31 December 2021 at a tertiary hospital in Madrid. The study included all adults over 18 years who sought care at the emergency department of the Fundación Jiménez Díaz Hospital following a risky sexual encounter and were subsequently recommended HIV nPEP treatment.

RESULTS

878 individuals received nPEP for HIV and underwent initial serological tests. Of these, 621 had comprehensive follow-ups. The prescribed regimen for all was raltegravir (RAL) 1200 mg combined with tenofovir/emtricitabine (TDF/FTC) 245/200 mg daily for 28 days. The study revealed a 1.1% rate (n=10) of previously undetected infection and a 0.16% (n=1) failure rate of nPEP. Regarding regimen tolerability, 5.6% (n=35) experienced symptoms linked to the treatment, yet none necessitated discontinuation of the regimen. On the contrary, six per cent (n=53) reported symptoms consistent with an STI during one of the medical visits; specifically, 4.4% had urethritis, and 1.6% had proctitis.

CONCLUSION

nPEP with RAL/TDF/FTC demonstrates high efficacy and safety, contingent on proper adherence. There is an observed increase in STI prevalence in this cohort, with nearly half of the participants not engaging in appropriate follow-up after initiating nPEP.

Concordance of emergency department physicians' decisions on HIV post-exposure prophylaxis with national guidelines: results from a retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is an effective tool to prevent infection with HIV. Patients seeking PEP after potential HIV exposure usually present to the emergency department (ED). Our study sought to determine the concordance of ED physicians' decisions on HIV-PEP with national guidelines (primary objective) and to assess the clinical relevance of drug-drug interactions (DDIs) between the HIV-PEP regimen and patients' concomitant medication (secondary objective).

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study at the ED of Hannover Medical School, Germany. Between 1 January 2018 and 31 December 2019, 113 of 11 246 screened patients presented to the ED after potential HIV exposure and were enrolled in the study.

RESULTS

The median age of the patients (82.3% male) was 30 y (IQR 25-35.5), 85.8% of potential HIV exposures were characterised as sexual and 85.0% presented within 72 h. ED physicians' decisions on HIV-PEP were concordant with national guidelines in 93.8%. No clinically relevant DDIs were detected.

CONCLUSIONS

ED physicians' decisions on HIV-PEP were highly concordant with national guidelines. Approximately 1% of patient presentations to the ED were related to HIV exposure; therefore, training ED physicians on HIV transmission risk assessment and indications/contraindications for HIV-PEP is paramount.

Post-exposure prophylaxis to prevent HIV: new drugs, new approaches, and more questions

Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) to prevent HIV acquisition has been recommended for over three decades, but remains underutilised. Over the past decade, clinical trials have established the safety and tolerability of newer PEP regimens, particularly those containing integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTIs) combined with a tenofovir and lamivudine or emtricitabine backbone. Several of these regimens were better tolerated than historical controls. Studies in macaques found that shorter courses of PEP with INSTIs were effective, particularly if dosing occurred close to the time of retroviral exposure. Despite the increase in well tolerated options, PEP seems to be underused globally and links to other prevention services are suboptimal. Interventions to increase provider and community awareness of PEP are needed.

Patient and Provider Decision Making About HIV Postexposure Prophylaxis Following Sexual Violence: A Qualitative Analysis

ABSTRACT

To explore patient and health care provider HIV postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) decision making following sexual assault, semistructured interviews regarding HIV PEP provision with 15 patients and 10 health care providers were conducted. A qualitative, descriptive, thematic analysis approach was used. Four themes were derived: (a) medical concerns; (b) emotional, trauma, and support factors; (c) daily medication management; and (d) ensuring access to HIV PEP. How participants described these themes and the importance placed on factors within each theme varied between the two groups. Altering provider communication so that HIV PEP discussions better align with patient decision-making factors (e.g., trauma and ability to take in information, how to manage side effects) could facilitate improvement in HIV PEP decision making following sexual assault for patients. High-level policy changes would improve HIV PEP access for sexual assault patients without necessitating the extraordinary efforts individual providers currently undertake.

Needlestick injuries in dentistry: Time to revisit

BACKGROUND

Blood-borne pathogens (BBPs) are infectious microorganisms that are found in human blood and can cause diseases in humans. Health care workers such as physicians, surgeons, nurses, dentists, dental students, dental assistants, laboratory technicians, personnel handling infectious waste, and other health care employees are at increased risk of exposure to these pathogens. Percutaneous injuries from needles or other sharp objects are the major sources of BBPs in the workplace. Needlestick injuries (NSIs) have the most potential to transmit and have the easiest mode of transmission of BBPs.

TYPES OF STUDIES REVIEWED

The authors searched electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Scopus, Embase, MEDLINE-Ovid) for studies and articles focused on the various aspects of NSIs, their possible causes, prevention, and management protocols.

RESULTS

There is a lack of literature on the global prevalence of NSIs among dental practitioners and underreporting of NSIs by clinicians. The authors also found that dental students and inexperienced practitioners were the most vulnerable. They found apparent inconsistencies in guidelines and recommendations from various regulatory and statutory agencies in charge of limiting and managing NSIs.

CONCLUSION

The most significant occupational risks for health care workers globally are NSIs. Dentists are recognized as one of the high-risk groups for exposure to NSIs. Although the reporting rate was noticeably low, the frequency of NSIs among dental students was alarmingly high.

PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS

Appropriate and succinct training of dental health care workers is crucial for prevention and management of NSIs. It is recommended that dentists familiarize themselves with recommendations from such agencies and organizations as the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Occupational Safety and Health Administration, and American Dental Association.

HIV infection

The AIDS epidemic has been a global public health issue for more than 40 years and has resulted in ~40 million deaths. AIDS is caused by the retrovirus, HIV-1, which is transmitted via body fluids and secretions. After infection, the virus invades host cells by attaching to CD4 receptors and thereafter one of two major chemokine coreceptors, CCR5 or CXCR4, destroying the host cell, most often a T lymphocyte, as it replicates. If unchecked this can lead to an immune-deficient state and demise over a period of ~2-10 years. The discovery and global roll-out of rapid diagnostics and effective antiretroviral therapy led to a large reduction in mortality and morbidity and to an expanding group of individuals requiring lifelong viral suppressive therapy. Viral suppression eliminates sexual transmission of the virus and greatly improves health outcomes. HIV infection, although still stigmatized, is now a chronic and manageable condition. Ultimate epidemic control will require prevention and treatment to be made available, affordable and accessible for all. Furthermore, the focus should be heavily oriented towards long-term well-being, care for multimorbidity and good quality of life. Intense research efforts continue for therapeutic and/or preventive vaccines, novel immunotherapies and a cure.

The predictive value of macaque models of preexposure prophylaxis for HIV prevention

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

We review macaque models for preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention and highlight their role in advancing currently approved and novel PrEP agents.

RECENT FINDINGS

The development of the repeat low dose simian HIV (SHIV) challenge models represented a significant advancement in preclinical PrEP modeling that has allowed the investigation of PrEP under conditions that better mimic HIV exposures in humans. These models incorporate relevant drug pharmacology to inform drug correlates of PrEP protection. Models of rectal, vaginal, and penile infection are now available and have been found to predict clinical efficacy of all the currently approved PrEP strategies including daily oral PrEP with the combination of emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate or tenofovir alafenamide, and a long-acting formulation of the integrase inhibitor cabotegravir. These models are being used to test new PrEP modalities including the nucleoside reverse transcriptase-translocation inhibitor islatravir and long-acting capsid inhibitors. The SHIV models have also been supplemented by sexually transmitted infection co-infections with Chlamydia trachomatis, Treponema pallidum or Trichomonas vaginalis to assess the impact of inflammation on PrEP efficacy.

SUMMARY

Clinical efficacy validated current PrEP macaque models supporting their continued use to advance novel PrEP agents to improve global PrEP coverage.

UK guideline for the use of HIV post-exposure prophylaxis 2021

We present the updated British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH) guidelines for post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) to HIV following sexual exposures, occupational exposures and other nonoccupational exposures in the community. This serves as an update to the 2015 BASHH guideline on PEP following sexual exposures and the 2008 Expert Advisory Group on AIDS guidelines on HIV PEP. We aim to provide evidence-based guidance on best clinical practice in the provision, monitoring and support of PEP for the prevention of HIV acquisition following sexual, occupational and other nonoccupational exposures in the community. The guideline covers when to prescribe PEP, what antiretroviral agents to use and how to manage PEP. This includes (i) evidence of PEP efficacy; (ii) evidence relating to individual-level efficacy of antiretroviral therapy to prevent the sexual transmission of HIV; (iii) data on the detectable (transmissible) prevalence of HIV in specific populations; (iv) risk of HIV transmission following different types of sexual and occupational exposure; (v) baseline risk assessment; (vi) drug regimens and dosing schedules; (vii) monitoring PEP; (viii) baseline and follow-up blood-borne virus testing; (ix) the role of PEP within broader HIV prevention strategies, for example, HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). The guideline also covers special scenarios such as PEP in pregnancy, breastfeeding and chronic hepatitis B virus infection, and when PEP should be considered in people using HIV PrEP. The guidelines are aimed at clinical professionals directly involved in PEP provision and other stakeholders in the field. A proforma to assist PEP consultations is included. A public consultation process was undertaken prior to finalizing the recommendations.

Awareness and Use of Post-exposure Prophylaxis for HIV Prevention Among Men Who Have Sex With Men: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: The use of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is effective in reducing HIV risk, but it is underused by men who have sex with men (MSM) due to certain psychological and sociostructural factors. This article assessed the awareness and use of PEP among MSM in an effort to increase the visibility and uptake of PEP among at-risk populations.

Methods: We conducted a systematic literature search of the PubMed, Web of Science, PsycINFO, and Google Scholar electronic databases. Studies were screened for inclusion, and relevant data were abstracted, assessed for bias, and synthesized. Pooled effect estimates were calculated using random effects meta-analysis, meta-regression and subgroup analysis, and a qualitative review and risk of bias assessment were performed (PROSPERO, CRD42019123815).

Results: Twenty eligible studies involving 12,579 MSM were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled estimate of the proportions of MSM who were aware of PEP was modest at 59.9% (95% CI: 50.5~68.7) and that of MSM who previously used PEP was very low at 4.9% (95% CI: 2.4~9.8). PEP awareness showed no clear change over time, while PEP use significantly changed over time. Multiple factors affected awareness, including educational attainment, race/ethnicity, levels of HIV stigma, access to condoms, and so on. Many factors could potentially impede or facilitate the use of PEP, such as income, lack of PEP information, and partnership.

Conclusion: We observed that PEP is an underused HIV prevention strategy among MSM and that once MSM become aware of PEP, the majority are willing to use it if they are supported appropriately in terms of a range of individual, social, and structural barriers.

Systematic Review Registration: http://www.cdr.york.ac.uk/prospero, PROSPERO [CRD42019123815].

Awareness of and barriers to using non-occupational post-exposure prophylaxis among male clients of female sex workers in two cities of China: a qualitative study

Background Male clients of female sex workers ('clients' hereafter) are considered high-risk and potentially a bridge population in the HIV epidemic. Non-occupational post-exposure prophylaxis (nPEP) is a safe and effective but under-utilised public health intervention to prevent HIV transmission. This study aims to explore clients' awareness of nPEP, intention of uptake, potential barriers to nPEP uptake and adherence, and suggestions for nPEP promotion in China.

METHODS

We conducted semi-structured in-depth interviews with 20 clients in two Chinese cities in 2018. Participants were recruited through purposive sampling. The content of the interviews was analysed using thematic content analysis in ATLAS.ti.

RESULTS

Overall, just a minority of participants were aware of nPEP. A majority expressed willingness to use nPEP. Potential barriers to nPEP uptake and adherence included adverse drug reactions, price, concerns of drug efficacy, privacy issues, and forgetting to take the drugs. Almost all participants expressed the need to promote nPEP among clients. Participants suggested that the promotion of nPEP should be at hospitals, online, and be integrated with HIV/AIDS health education.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggested that nPEP guidelines should be formulated and implementation strategies should be developed to address barriers to uptake and adherence in order to successfully tap into the potential of nPEP as an effective HIV prevention tool.

Pharmacy PEP Access Intervention Among Persons Who Use Drugs in New York City: iPEPcare Study-Rethinking Biomedical HIV Prevention Strategies

Biomedical HIV prevention uptake has not taken hold among Black and Latinx populations who use street-marketed drugs. A pilot intervention providing a PEP informational video and direct pharmacy access to a PEP starter dose was conducted among this population. Four study pharmacies were selected to help facilitate syringe customer recruitment (2012-2016). Baseline, post-video, and 3-month ACASI captured demographic, risk behavior, and psychosocial factors associated with PEP willingness, and willingness to access PEP in a pharmacy. A non-experimental study design revealed baseline PEP willingness to be associated with PEP awareness, health insurance, being female, and having a high-risk partner (n = 454). Three-month PEP willingness was associated with lower HIV stigma (APR = 0.95). Using a pre-post approach, PEP knowledge (p < 0.001) and willingness (p < 0.001) increased overtime; however, only three participants requested PEP during the study. In-depth interviews (n = 15) identified lack of a deeper understanding of PEP, and contextualized perceptions of HIV risk as PEP access barriers. Pharmacy PEP access shows promise but further research on perceived risk and HIV stigma is warranted.

Tenofovir DF/emtricitabine/rilpivirine as HIV post-exposure prophylaxis: results from a multicentre prospective study

OBJECTIVES

Since 2016, French guidelines have recommended the single-tablet regimen of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF)/emtricitabine (FTC)/rilpivirine (RPV) as HIV post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), but few data support this usage. We evaluated the tolerability, treatment completion and occurrence of HIV seroconversion associated with this combination in occupational and non-occupational PEP.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We conducted an observational, prospective, multicentre, open-label, non-randomized study in five French HIV centres. Adults requiring PEP according to national French guidelines were prescribed TDF/FTC/RPV one pill once a day for 28 days. Clinical and biological tolerability was assessed at week 4; occurrence of HIV seroconversion was evaluated after week 16.

RESULTS

From March 2016 to March 2017, 163 courses of PEP were prescribed for 150 sexual exposures (44% heterosexual and 56% MSM) and 13 non-sexual exposures. Five participants stopped PEP after a few days because the source person was HIV uninfected. Of the remaining 158 individuals, 15 (9.5%) were lost to follow-up at week 4, 7 (4.4%) prematurely discontinued PEP [patient's decision/non-adherence (n = 3) or adverse events (gastrointestinal intolerance n = 3, fatigue n = 1)] and 136 (86.1%) completed the 28 day treatment. Overall, 69.6% of participants declared at least one adverse event, mostly of mild to moderate intensity and no serious adverse events or hepatic or renal toxicity occurred. No HIV seroconversion occurred at week 16.

CONCLUSIONS

The low rate of premature treatment interruption, the good tolerability and the absence of documented HIV seroconversion support the current French guidelines of a 28 day course of TDF/FTC/RPV for sexual and non-sexual PEP.

The "Side Effects" of HIV PEP Use: Forced Reflections and Introspections on Sexual Decision-Making

Postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) for HIV prevention involves giving antiretroviral medications to HIV-negative people to prevent seroconversion after HIV exposure. Available literature suggests this intervention is >80% effective. Accordingly, we implemented a nurse-led PEP program in two sexually transmitted and HIV testing clinics. As part of evaluating this project, we undertook semistructured interviews with participants who accessed PEP to understand their experiences. Twelve men participated: all were HIV-negative males who sought PEP for condomless anal sex with men. Unique to this article is the presentation of the participants' descriptions of the "side effects" they experienced. Notably, the main side effect they described related to emotional distress. Simply put, having to take a medication for 28 days forced reflection and introspection on their sexual decision-making. We feel HIV prevention workers should consider this emotional reaction when designing interventions, and ensure they provide adequate preparation and support to patients.

HIV Nonoccupational Postexposure Prophylaxis Among Men Who Have Sex with Men: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Global Data

HIV nonoccupational postexposure prophylaxis (nPEP) has been prescribed to men who have sex with men (MSM) for decades, but the global situation of nPEP implementation among this population remains unclear. To understand nPEP awareness, uptake, and factors associated with uptake among MSM, we searched PubMed, Scopus, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and Web of Science for studies reporting nPEP implementation among MSM published before May 19, 2019. We estimated pooled rates and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of awareness, uptake using a random-effects model. We identified 74 studies: 3 studies (4.1%) from upper-middle-income regions and 71 (95.9%) from high-income regions. The pooled rate of nPEP awareness and uptake was 51.6% (95% CI 40.6-62.5%) and 6.0% (5.0-7.1%), respectively. Pooled uptake rate was higher in upper-middle-income regions [8.9% (7.8-10.0%)] than in high-income regions [5.8% (4.8-6.9%)]. Unprotected anal sex was the most common exposure (range: 55.0-98.6%, median: 62.9%). Pooled completion of nPEP was 86.9% (79.5-92.8%). Of 19,546 MSM prescribed nPEP, 500 HIV seroconversions (2.6%) were observed. Having risky sexual behaviors and history of sexually transmitted infections were associated with higher nPEP uptake, whereas insufficient knowledge, underestimated risk of exposure to HIV, lack of accessibility, and social stigma might hinder nPEP uptake. Awareness and uptake of nPEP among MSM worldwide are low. Further efforts are needed to combat barriers to access nPEP, including improving accessibility and reducing stigma. Seroconversions post-nPEP uptake suggest that joint prevention precautions aside from nPEP are needed for high-risk MSM. More evidence from low-income and middle-income regions is needed.

[Heterosexually active men, masculinities, HIV prevention, and the search for post-exposure prophylaxis following sexual exposure]

Hegemonic masculinity has distanced heterosexually active men from the responses to the HIV epidemic. However, with the combined prevention paradigm, post-exposure prophylaxis offers new ways to manage the risks of HIV infection, while at the same time bringing about new challenges. The aim of this paper is to discuss - through the lens of gender and masculinities - how heterosexually active men perceive their HIV risk and how they manage prevention methods and strategies, including post-exposure prophylaxis. Employing qualitative methods, 16 heterosexually active men in five health services from different Brazilian cities were interviewed. The analysis indicates that condom use - the main prevention method - was conditioned by subjective and contextual factors, and its failure stands out as the primary reason for seeking out post-exposure prophylaxis. We argue that ideals of hegemonic masculinity permeate perceptions and risk management discourses in the current context of the HIV/AIDS epidemic.

Post-exposure prophylaxis for HIV infection in sexual assault victims

OBJECTIVES

Sexual assault (SA) is recognized as a public health problem of epidemic proportions. Guidelines recommend the administration of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) after an SA. However, few data are available about the feasibility of this strategy, and this study was conducted to assess this.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective, longitudinal, observational study in SA victims attending the Hospital Clinic in Barcelona from 2006 to 2015. A total of 1695 SA victims attended the emergency room (ER), of whom 883 met the PEP criteria. Five follow-up visits were scheduled at days 1, 10, 28, 90 and 180 in the out-patient clinic. The primary endpoint was PEP completion rate at day 28. Secondary endpoints were loss to follow-up, treatment discontinuation, occurrence of adverse events (AEs) and rate of seroconversion.

RESULTS

The median age of participants was 25 years [interquartile range (IQR) 21-33 years] and 93% were female. The median interval between exposure and presentation at the ER was 13 h (IQR 6-24 h). The level of risk was appreciable in 47% (n = 466) of individuals. Of 883 patients receiving PEP, 631 lived in Catalonia. In this group, the PEP completion rate at day 28 was 29% (n = 183). The follow-up rate was 63% (n = 400) and 38% (n = 241) at days 1 and 28, respectively. Treatment discontinuation was present in 58 (15%) of 400 patients who attended at least the day 1 visit, the main reason being AEs (n = 35; 60%). AEs were reported in 226 (56%) patients, and were mainly gastrointestinal (n = 196; 49%). Only 211 (33%) patients returned for HIV testing at day 90. A single seroconversion was observed in a men who have sex with men (MSM) patient at day 120.

CONCLUSIONS

Follow-up and compliance rates in SA victims were poor. In addition, > 50% of the patients experienced AEs, which were the main reason for PEP interruption. Strategies to increase follow-up testing and new better tolerated drug regimens must be investigated to address these issues.

Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Postexposure Prophylaxis against HIV Infection among Healthcare Workers in Hiwot Fana Specialized University Hospital, Eastern Ethiopia

Background

Postexposure chemoprophylaxis can prevent human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection in risk health care workers; however routine adoption of these practices by the workers has been limited.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 311 health care workers of Hiwot Fana Specialized University Hospital between February and March 2016. Data was collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire and analysed using STATA 12.

Results

In all, 83% of the participants had adequate knowledge of postexposure prophylaxis for HIV. All the respondents had heard about postexposure prophylaxis for HIV; however, only 37 (22.4%) workers know the definition of the postexposure prophylaxis. Among study participants, the majority of them, 272 (87.5%), knew the preferable time to initiate postexposure chemoprophylaxis. A significant number of the workers (43.4%) had an unfavorable attitude towards postexposure prophylaxis. Among 53 workers with a potential exposure to HIV, 38 (71.7%) took postexposure chemoprophylaxis and only 26 (44.8%) completed taking postexposure prophylaxis correctly.

Conclusion

In all, most of the health care workers had adequate knowledge about postexposure prophylaxis against HIV/AIDS. The result shows that a significant number of individuals had a negative attitude and poor practice with regard to postexposure prophylaxis. Therefore, formal training that aims to improve attitudes and support to improve postexposure prophylaxis implementation and completion are needed. We would recommend the establishment of appropriate guidelines and the supply chain to ensure the availability of postexposure prophylaxis drugs for the protection of healthcare workers with potential high risk exposure to HIV.

Pediatric Considerations for Postexposure Human Immunodeficiency Virus Prophylaxis

Exposures that carry risk of transmission of blood-borne disease are rare in pediatrics, but expose patients and families to great anxiety. Specialists in pediatric infectious diseases are often asked about initial antimicrobial prophylaxis in these cases. Guidelines for nonoccupational postexposure prophylaxis for human immunodeficiency virus have evolved as new formulations and medications become available and greater experience obtained in assessing relative risks of different exposures and relative costs and benefits for different interventions. This article discusses the evidence behind recent updates to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines for nonoccupational postexposure prophylaxis for human immunodeficiency virus, focusing on application in the pediatric population.

An Exploratory Study of a Nurse-Led HIV Postexposure Prophylaxis Program

The provision of HIV medications to HIV-negative persons after exposure to HIV is known as postexposure prophylaxis (PEP). Because this prevention strategy is primarily only available in emergency rooms, we piloted a nurse-led community-based PEP program in Ottawa from September 2013 through August 2015. As part of evaluating this program, we conducted qualitative interviews with persons who initiated PEP. Twelve men who had engaged in condomless anal sex with other males participated. Thematic analysis of the interview transcripts highlighted that PEP was considered unmentionable because the participants' saw it as proof of past behavior that was perceived negatively. Our results thus revealed that PEP was stigmatized, which made our participants reluctant to answer health care professionals' "questions" about why they needed PEP. To do so was to be exposed to stigma. The use of PEP for our participants was a balance between wanting to minimize the risks of HIV acquisition against the risks of disclosing the unmentionable. We take these findings to mean that clinicians and health service policy workers should move PEP into community clinics (decentralizing it from hospitals, and increase the involvement of nurses); aim to provide all required PEP services in community settings (consolidate PEP provision in these clinics); and ensure PEP services are streamlined to remove extraneous data collection (meaning history and exam tools should be standardized to minimize needless questions that may impede PEP access). Together, these recommendations may increase patients' access to PEP, and maximize its HIV prevention effects.

Results from the post-exposure prophylaxis pilot program (P-QUAD) demonstration project in Los Angeles County

Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is a promising but under-utilized strategy for HIV prevention in high-risk populations. Between March 2010 and June 2011, two community-based clinics in Los Angeles County provided PEP in a pilot program to 267 unique individuals. Courses were primarily dispensed to men who have sex with men (84%) and consisted overwhelmingly of a three-drug antiretroviral therapy regimen containing two nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors and either an integrase inhibitor (raltegravir) or a boosted protease inhibitor (lopinavir/ritonavir). Approximately 64% of all PEP courses were followed for at least 12 weeks, and seven individuals seroconverted. Of the seven seroconversions, six had subsequent re-exposure. The low rate of PEP failure calls for expanded funding for PEP in other jurisdictions.

The patient rationale for seeking HIV PEP: Qualitative results from a nurse-led program

BACKGROUND

HIV PEP is an intervention to prevent HIV seroconversion among HIV-negative persons after they have come into contact with the virus. The literature suggests PEP is greater than 80% effective at reducing HIV seroconversion. To expand access to this prevention strategy, we established a nurse-led PEP program in two STI clinics.

AIMS

We sought to explore why people seek PEP, and their experiences using it.

MATERIALS & METHODS

We invited participants who used our PEP program to engage in semi-structured qualitative interviews. These were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using the techniques of thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Twelve men who initiated PEP through our program participated in an interview. Thematic analysis of the data identified three themes: (1) assessing risk, (2) euphoria and distress, and (3) reducing distress.

DISCUSSION

Based on our findings, it appears as though instances of condomless sex were atypical and unplanned, they occurred due to contextual factors (e.g., consent, desire to explore, sexual chemistry/intensity), and they resulted in a state of temporary euphoria, which, afterward, transformed into distress (i.e., "feel[ing] stupid"). The participants used PEP not only for HIV prevention, but also (and perhaps more so) to address their emotional state. PEP used seemed to primarily occur to address situations of atypical sexual contact with partners they did not "know" or "trust".

CONCLUSION

We feel these results help contextualize how potential PEP users view HIV risk assessments, and how they determine their need for this intervention.

Optimal HIV Postexposure Prophylaxis Regimen Completion With Single Tablet Daily Elvitegravir/Cobicistat/Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate/Emtricitabine Compared With More Frequent Dosing Regimens

STRUCTURE

The study evaluated elvitegravir/cobicistat/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF)/emtricitabine (FTC) ("Quad pill") for postexposure prophylaxis (PEP).

BACKGROUND

HIV-exposed individuals may benefit from PEP, but completion rates have been suboptimal because of regimen complexity and side effects. Newer antiretroviral combinations coformulated as single daily pills may optimize PEP adherence.

SETTING

One hundred HIV-uninfected individuals who presented to a Boston community health center after an acute HIV sexual exposure were enrolled and initiated PEP with the daily, single-pill combination Quad pill for a 28-day course.

METHODS

Side effects and medication completion rates from study participants were compared with historical controls who had used PEP regimens consisting of TDF/FTC daily and raltegravir twice daily, or earlier regimens of twice daily zidovudine (AZT)/lamivudine (3TC) and a protease inhibitor, using χ tests for independence.

RESULTS

Of the 100 participants who initiated the Quad pill for PEP after a high-risk sexual exposure, 71% completed the 28-day Quad pill regimen, which was significantly greater than historical controls who used TDF/FTC and raltegravir (57%, P < 0.05) or AZT/3TC plus a protease inhibitor (39%, P < 0.001). The most common side effects reported by Quad pill users were as follows: abdominal discomfort or pain, gas or bloating (42%), diarrhea (38%), fatigue (28%), nausea or vomiting (28%), headache (14%), or dizziness or lightheadedness (6%). Most symptoms were mild, limited, and did not result in medication discontinuation. No participants became HIV infected.

CONCLUSIONS

Fixed-dose combination of elvitegravir/cobicistat/TDF/FTC was safe and well tolerated for PEP, with higher regimen completion rates than more frequently dosed PEP regimens.

Improving HIV post-exposure prophylaxis rates after pediatric acute sexual assault

The purpose of our study was to increase the rate of children with appropriate HIV-PEP regimens among those diagnosed with sexual assault in The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Emergency Department (ED). The outcome measure was the percent of patients receiving correct HIV-PEP. We retrospectively reviewed 97 charts over 31 months to define the baseline rate of children receiving appropriate HIV-PEP regimens (pre QI-implementation period: 2/2012-8/2014). Among children in which HIV-PEP was indicated following sexual assault, 40% received the recommended 28-day course. Root cause analysis indicated prescribing errors accounted for 87% of patients not receiving appropriate HIV-PEP. Process drivers included standardizing care coordination follow-up calls to elicit specific information about HIV-PEP, ED educational initiatives targeted at HIV-PEP prescribing, revision of the clinical pathway to specify indicated duration of HIV-PEP, and revision of the order set to auto-populate the number of days for the HIV-PEP prescription. During the QI-implementation period (9/2014-4/2015), the rate of appropriate HIV-PEP increased to 64% (median 60%) and the average number of days between incorrect HIV-PEP regimens was 24.5. Post QI-implementation (5/2015-3/2016), the rate of appropriate HIV-PEP increased to 84% (median 100%) and the average number of days between incorrect HIV-PEP regimens increased to 78.4. A multifaceted quality improvement process improved the rate of receipt of appropriate HIV-PEP regimens for pediatric victims of sexual assault. Decision support tools are instrumental in sustaining ideal care delivery, but require ongoing evaluation and improvement in order to remain optimally effective.

HIV Prevention and Treatment: The Evolving Role of the Emergency Department

Historically, the role of the emergency physician in HIV care has been constrained to treating sick patients with opportunistic infections and postexposure prophylaxis for occupational exposures. However, advances in HIV care have led to medications that have substantially fewer issues with toxicity and resistance, opening up an exciting new opportunity for emergency physicians to participate in treating the HIV virus itself. With this new role, it is crucial that emergency physicians be familiar with the advances in testing and medications for HIV prevention and treatment. To our knowledge, to date there has not yet been an article addressing this expansion of practice. We have compiled a summary of what the emergency physician needs to know, including misconceptions associated with antiretroviral therapy, medication complexity, toxicity, resistance, and usability. Additionally, we review potential indications for prescribing these drugs in the emergency department, including the role of the emergency physician in postexposure prophylaxis, preexposure prophylaxis, and treatment of acute HIV, as well as how emergency physicians can engage with chronic HIV infection.

Predicting HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Efficacy for Women using a Preclinical Pharmacokinetic-Pharmacodynamic In Vivo Model

The efficacy of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) relies on adherence and may also depend on the route of HIV acquisition. Clinical studies of systemic tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) PrEP revealed reduced efficacy in women compared to men with similar degrees of adherence. To select the most effective PrEP strategies, preclinical studies are critically needed to establish correlations between drug concentrations (pharmacokinetics [PK]) and protective efficacy (pharmacodynamics [PD]). We utilized an in vivo preclinical model to perform a PK-PD analysis of systemic TDF PrEP for vaginal HIV acquisition. TDF PrEP prevented vaginal HIV acquisition in a dose-dependent manner. PK-PD modeling of tenofovir (TFV) in plasma, female reproductive tract tissue, cervicovaginal lavage fluid and its intracellular metabolite (TFV diphosphate) revealed that TDF PrEP efficacy was best described by plasma TFV levels. When administered at 50 mg/kg, TDF achieved plasma TFV concentrations (370 ng/ml) that closely mimicked those observed in humans and demonstrated the same risk reduction (70%) previously attained in women with high adherence. This PK-PD model mimics the human condition and can be applied to other PrEP approaches and routes of HIV acquisition, accelerating clinical implementation of the most efficacious PrEP strategies.

Knowledge, Attitudes and Beliefs regarding Post Exposure Prophylaxis among South African Men who have Sex with Men

The Soweto Men's Study (2008), demonstrated an overall HIV prevalence rate of 13.2 %, with 10.1 % among straight-identified Men-who-have-sex-with-men (MSM), 6.4 % among bisexual-identified MSM and 33.9 % among gay-identified MSM. Behavioral interventions are imperative, but insufficient to prevent new HIV infections. Biomedical prevention of HIV offers a variety of combination prevention tools, including Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). PEP studies amongst MSM have been conducted in Amsterdam, Brazil and San Francisco, but never before in Africa. A cross-sectional, Internet-based survey was initiated to measure knowledge, attitudes and beliefs regarding PEP among South African MSM. Recruitment commenced in June 2014 and ran until October 2015. Participants were recruited through banner advertisements on Facebook.com and mambaonline.com, advertisements in the local gay media and at Health4Men (H4M) MSM-targeted clinics. Outreach workers distributed flyers advertising the study in their local communities. The survey was also made available on a computer at the H4M clinics in Cape Town and Johannesburg to reach MSM who may not have Internet access. A total of 408 men completed the survey. The majority of these men were under the age of 40, identified as gay/homosexual and were employed; 51 % (208/408) self-identified as black or of mixed race. In multivariate analysis participants who identified as gay had greater odds of having previously heard of PEP (AOR 1.91, 95 % CI 1.04, 3.51; p = 0.036), as did those who reported their HIV status as positive (AOR 2.59, 95 % CI 1.47, 4.45; p = 0.001). Participants with medical insurance had greater odds of having used PEP previously (AOR 2.67, 95 % CI 1.11, 6.43; p = 0.029). Bivariate analysis showed that condomless sex in the past 6 months was not significantly associated with PEP knowledge (p = 0.75) or uptake (p = 0.56) of PEP. Our findings suggest a lack of PEP knowledge and uptake among non-gay identified, HIV negative and un-insured MSM. Focusing PEP programs on these men may potentially increase uptake. Increased knowledge needs to be provided to MSM who engage in risky sexual behaviors.

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for men who have sex with men in Europe: review of evidence for a much needed prevention tool

In many Western countries with good coverage of antiretroviral treatment (ART) programmes the annual number of HIV infections is still high and not (yet) declining among men who have sex with men (MSM). This might indicate that antiretroviral treatment roll-out alone will not turn around the course of the epidemic and that new, additional tools are needed. Antiretrovirals used as prevention tools for people not yet infected with HIV, such as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) could be such important additional tools. PrEP is a new type of biomedical prevention, which involves the use of antiretrovirals before, during and after (periods of) sexual exposure to HIV. In this review, we will focus on PrEP as a new prevention tool for MSM at high risk in Europe, including its evidence for effectiveness, challenges for implementation, ongoing European demonstration studies; as well as how PrEP relates to other existing prevention tools. In light of European Medicines Agency's recent recommendation for approval of PrEP we briefly review the potential implications.

Needlestick and Sharps Injuries in Dermatologic Surgery: A Review of Preventative Techniques and Post-exposure Protocols

Background: Needlestickand sharps injuries are the leading causes of morbidity in the dermatologicfield. Among medical specialties, surgeons and dermatologists have the highest rates of needlestickand sharps injuries.The high rates of needlestickand sharps injuries in dermatology not only apply to physicians, but also to nurses, physician assistants, and technicians in the demnatologic field. Needlestickand sharps injuries are of great concern due to the monetary, opportunity, social, and emotional costs associated with their occurrence. Objective: A review of preventative techniques and post-exposure protocols for the majortypes of sharps injuries encountered in dermatologic practice. Design: The terms "needle-stick injuryT'sharps injuryTdermatologic surgery? "post-exposure prophylaxis,"and "health-care associated injury" were used in combinations to search the PubMed database. Relevant studies were reviewed for validity and included. Results The authors discuss the major types of sharps injuries that occur in the dermatologic surgery setting and summarize preventative techniques with respect to each type of sharps injury.The authors also summarize and discuss relevant post-exposure protocols in the event of a sharps injury. Conclusion: The adoption of the discussed methods, techniques, practices, and attire can result in the elimination of the vast majority of dermatologic sharps injuries.

Pre-Exposure Chemoprophylaxis (PREP) as an HIV Prevention Strategy

Chemoprophylaxis may be a prevention strategy for the sexual transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Evidence suggests that condom use has waned with the availability of antiretroviral medication, at least in some resource-rich settings. Barrier methods of HIV prevention have inherent problems, and the potential for failure. Microbicide research has focused primarily on male-to-female transmission. Analogous to post-exposure prophylaxis, HIV prevention may be achieved by pre-exposure prophylaxis in some settings. Research in this potential strategy may be rewarding.

Community-based, nurse-led post-exposure prophylaxis: results and implications

HIV medications can be used as post-exposure prophylaxis to efficaciously prevent an HIV-negative person who has come into contact with HIV from becoming HIV-positive. Traditionally, these medications have been available in emergency departments, which have constituted a barrier for the members of many minority groups who are greatly affected by HIV transmission (i.e. gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men, and persons who use injection drugs). From 5 September 2013 through 4 September 2015, we sought to increase the use of HIV post-exposure prophylaxis by having registered nurses provide these medications, when indicated, in community clinics in Ottawa, Canada. We undertook a chart review of patients who accessed services for HIV post-exposure prophylaxis in this period. Over the two years of data collection, 112 persons requested HIV post-exposure prophylaxis and 64% (n = 72) initiated these medications. Most (93%, or n = 67, of the 72 initiations) were among men, with 88% (n = 59) of these men reporting same sex sexual partners. Among these 58 men, 31% (n = 18) had sexual contact with other men known to be HIV-positive. Among women (n = 8), five initiated post-exposure prophylaxis: three after needle-sharing contact or sexual contact with a male partner who reportedly shared needles, and two after unprotected vaginal sex with a male partner known to be HIV-positive. Overall, no one was diagnosed with HIV at the four-month HIV testing follow-up, although six persons were diagnosed with HIV from the baseline HIV testing, and an additional four were diagnosed with HIV during routine HIV testing one year after completing post-exposure prophylaxis. In total, nine persons in our sample were thus diagnosed with HIV during the study period, which accounted for 9.4% (n = 10 of 106) of all reported HIV diagnoses in Ottawa during this time. We conclude that nurse-initiated HIV post-exposure prophylaxis can be an effective way to provide HIV prevention services to persons who are at high-risk for HIV.

In Vitro Pre- and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis Using HIV Inhibitors as Microbicides Against Cell-Free or Cell-Associated HIV-1 Infection

Several classes of microbicides are being evaluated for the prevention of sexual HIV transmission. In vivo, the infectious dose and viral source involved in transmission remain uncertain and it is likely that women will use microbicides both before and after high-risk HIV exposure. Therefore, we evaluated HIV entry inhibitors (EIs) and reverse transcriptase inhibitors (RTIs) for their ability to block cell-free and cell-associated HIV-1 infection in co-cultures of monocyte-derived dendritic cells (MO-DC) and CD4+T-cells using settings of pre- and post-exposure prophylaxis. In the pre-exposure assay, where compound was present before, during and 24 h after infection, all tested EIs (BMS806, TAK779 and T20) and RTIs (PMPA, TMC120 and UC781) blocked infection with 10−4multiplicity of infection (MOI) of cell-free virus at a dose between 100 and 10,000 nM, dependent on the compound used. At 10−3MOI, however, only T20 and the RTIs completely blocked infection. Furthermore, in experiments with cell-associated virus, EIs were ineffective, whereas RTIs actively blocked infection with similar potency as in the experiments with cell-free virus. In the post-exposure assay, where compound was added 2 h after infection and remained present for 24 h, EIs were inactive whereas RTIs blocked cell-free and cell-associated viral infections equally efficiently. Moreover, post-exposure prophylaxis initiated 24 h after infection with cell-free or cell-associated HIV-1 was still effective with 1,000 nM of TMC120. Both EIs and RTIs were non-cytotoxic at any tested concentration for MO-DC and CD4+T-cells in co-culture. Our study shows that RTIs are potent inhibitors of cell-free and cell-associated virus used either in pre- or post-exposure settings. It highlights that parameters such as viral input, viral source, the time of compound addition and the target cells should be considered in microbicides evaluation.

UK guideline for the use of HIV Post-Exposure Prophylaxis Following Sexual Exposure, 2015

We present the updated British Association for Sexual Health and HIV guidelines for HIV post-exposure prophylaxis following sexual exposure (PEPSE). This document includes a review of the current data to support the use of PEPSE, considers how to calculate the risks of infection after a potential exposure, and provides recommendations on when PEPSE should and should not be considered. We also review which medications to use for PEPSE, provide a checklist for initial assessment, and make recommendations for monitoring individuals receiving PEPSE. Special scenarios, cost-effectiveness of PEPSE, and issues relating to service provision are also discussed. Throughout the document, the place of PEPSE within the broader context of other HIV prevention strategies is considered.

Nonoccupational Postexposure Human Immunodeficiency Virus Prophylaxis: Acceptance Following Sexual Assault

BACKGROUND

Nonoccupational postexposure prophylaxis (nPEP) for HIV following sexual assault may decrease the likelihood of HIV transmission.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this exploratory chart review study was to examine factors associated with patients accepting post-sexual assault nPEP at three forensic nurse examiner programs in urban settings.

METHODS

Forensic nursing charts of patients presenting for acute sexual assault care were reviewed as part of a mixed-methods study.

RESULTS

Patients assaulted by more than one or an unknown number of assailants were over 12 times more likely to accept the offer of nPEP (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 12.66, 95% CI [2.77, 57.82]). In cases where no condom was used (aOR = 8.57, 95% CI [1.59, 46.10]) or when any injury to the anus or genitalia was noted (aOR = 4.10, 95% CI [1.57, 10.75]), patients were more likely to accept nPEP. Patients with any injury to the face or head were less likely to initiate nPEP (aOR = 0.32, 95% CI [0.11, 0.97]).

DISCUSSION

This study is an important first step in understanding factors associated with nPEP acceptance after sexual assault.

Efficacy of HIV Postexposure Prophylaxis: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Nonhuman Primate Studies

BACKGROUND

The efficacy of antiretrovirals as postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) to prevent viral acquisition was demonstrated in nonhuman primate models of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in the early 1990s. To complement the evidence base for efficacy of HIV PEP in humans, we systematically reviewed the published data on PEP efficacy across animal studies.

METHODS

PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase were searched from inception to 31 May 2014 for randomized and nonrandomized studies reporting seroconversions among uninfected animals exposed to HIV or simian immunodeficiency virus, irrespective of route of exposure. Seroconversion risk data were pooled using random-effects models, and associations explored through meta-regression.

RESULTS

Twenty-five studies (408 primates) were included for review. The risk of serconversion was 89% lower among animals exposed to PEP compared with those that did not receive PEP (odds ratio, 0.11 [95% confidence interval, .05-.23]). Heterogeneity was low (I(2) = 0.0%). In meta-regression, a significant association was found between timing of PEP and seroconversion and the use of tenofovir compared with other drugs.

CONCLUSIONS

This review provides further evidence of the protective benefit of PEP in preventing HIV acquisition, and the importance of initiating PEP as early as possible following virus exposure.

Antiretrovirals for primary HIV prevention: the current status of pre- and post-exposure prophylaxis

In light of the 2 million HIV infections that occur globally each year, there is a need to optimize strategies that integrate biomedical and behavioral approaches to HIV prevention. Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) immediately after acute high-risk exposures and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for those who engage in recurrent high-risk behaviors are promising bio-behavioral approaches to decreasing HIV transmission. Guidelines have recommended PEP for occupational and non-occupational exposures for over 15 years, but uptake of PEP has been limited, partly as a result of insufficient awareness of this intervention among persons at highest risk for acquiring HIV. However, since the publication of large randomized clinical trials demonstrating the efficacy of PrEP, and the dissemination of guidelines endorsing its use, there is a renewed focus on bio-behavioral prevention. Numerous studies have recently assessed the acceptability of bio-behavioral prevention programs among diverse populations or described experiences implementing these programs in "real-world" settings. As research and clinical data informing optimal utilization of PEP and PrEP are rapidly accumulating, this review provides a timely summary of recent progress in bio-behavioral prevention. By contextualizing the most noteworthy recent findings regarding PEP and PrEP, this review seeks to inform the successful implementation of these promising prevention approaches.

Gender Reassignment Surgery in Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Positive Patients: A Report of Two Cases

It is believed that surgery on human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive patients is dangerous and should be avoided due to the possibility of postoperative infection of the patients or HIV occupational transmission to the medical staff. We discuss here the preparations and measures needed to conduct surgery safely on HIV-positive patients, based on our experience. We performed sex reassignment surgery on two HIV-positive patients from January 2013 to January 2015. Both of them were receiving highly active antiretroviral therapy and were asymptomatic, with a normal CD4 count (>500 cells/µL). The HIV-RNA was undetectable within the bloodstream. All the staff wore protective clothing, glasses, and three pairs of protective gloves in the operating room because of the possibility of transmission. Prophylactic antibiotics were administered to the patients, and antiviral therapy was performed during their perioperative course. Neither of the patients had postoperative complications, and none of the medical staff experienced accidental exposure. Both patients had satisfactory surgery outcomes without complications. HIV-positive patients can undergo surgery safely without increased risk of postoperative complications or HIV transmission to the staff through the proper use of antibiotics, active antiretroviral therapy, and supplemental protective measures with post-exposure prophylaxis for the staff in case of HIV exposure.

Awareness and low uptake of post exposure prophylaxis for HIV among clinical medical students in a high endemicity setting

Background

Adequate knowledge and practices on post exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for HIV among health care providers are crucial for HIV prevention. However there is limited data on PEP knowledge and practice from developing countries where the burden of HIV infection continues to increase. We assessed the knowledge of clinical medical students on PEP, their practices in response to occupational exposure to HIV, as well as the determinants of good knowledge on PEP.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted in November 2014 involving 154 consecutively recruited clinical medical students (4^th-6^th year undergraduates). Data were acquired using a structured questionnaire. Knowledge on PEP was assessed using a questionnaire comprising 25 questions and categorized as: good (20 or more correct answers), moderate (13–19 correct answers) and poor (12 or fewer correct answers).

Results

For the 154 students included (57.8 % being male), the mean age was 23.2 ± 2.4 years, and 89 % had heard about PEP for HIV. The majority of students had moderate (61.7 %) and poor (32.5 %) knowledge on PEP. Overall knowledge score increased with increasing level of studies (p < 0.05). Only 10 (6.5 %) had had previous training on PEP, most of whom were senior level students (p = 0.01). Fifty-four students (35.1 %) knew the appropriate duration of PEP and this awareness increased with level of studies (p = 0.001). Of the 81 (52.6 %) who reported occupational exposure to HIV in the past, only 4 (4.9 %) received PEP.

Conclusions

Overall, knowledge on PEP among clinical medical students in this setting was non-optimal with very low uptake PEP. Intensification of HIV curricula to involve PEP as well as continuous medical education programs and workshops are potential avenues to improve awareness in this vulnerable population.

Percutaneous and Mucocutaneous Exposure Among Orthopaedic Surgeons: Immediate Management and Compliance With CDC Protocol

BACKGROUND

Orthopaedic surgeons are at a high risk of sustaining a percutaneous or mucocutaneous exposure to blood and body fluids. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends a wash with soap and water and notification of the concerned hospital authorities after any percutaneous/mucocutaneous exposure, but a systematic amenability with these guidelines is not always seen. This cross-sectional study was undertaken to determine current knowledge and practices of orthopaedic surgeons in case of a percutaneous sharp injury exposure, emphasizes the immediate first aid steps taken after an exposure, the degree of reporting, and to explore the reasons for noncompliance. Finally, we sought to create awareness about the prevailing Center for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines after any exposure to blood or body fluids.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional survey using an anonymous prepared questionnaire. The study population included exclusively orthopaedic surgeons, including residents, fellows, and attending physicians at 4 US institutions. The questionnaire was also available online on the OTA Web site as a part of survey monkey. The questionnaire comprised 9 multiple choice questions, and more than 1 response could be given for some questions. The questions addressed previous needle stick/sharp injury exposure, number of times that had happened, whether reported to the hospital administration, reason for nonreporting, and risk perception for transmission of blood-borne pathogens (human immunodeficiency virus, HBsAg, and hepatitis C virus). The questions were also asked based on what should be done in four different clinical settings based on respondents risk perception.

RESULTS

Of fifty eight attendings, 7 fellows, 45 residents, and 7 respondents who did not indicate their position participated in the survey for a total of 117 respondents. Out of 99, 24 had sustained it once, 18 twice, 11 three times, and 35 at least 4 times. When questioned about informing the incident to the hospital administration, 38% had always reported the incident, 33% had never reported the incident, and the remaining 29% had not reported it every time. Of note, 87% gave the correct response about the risk of transmission of human immunodeficiency virus after an exposure. On questioning about the risk of hepatitis B transmission, from an HBsAg- and HBeAg-positive source, 13% gave the correct response, whereas from HBsAg-positive and HBeAg-negative source, 30% gave the correct response. Regarding transmission of hepatitis C virus from a positive source, 36% responded correctly. The surgeons seemingly attempted to risk stratify their exposure, and they were more likely to report their exposure in the higher risk scenarios.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that orthopaedic surgeons of all levels of training are at high risk of occupational exposure to blood-borne pathogens. Moreover, despite the level of training, the majority of surgeons do not follow the recommended steps, although we do not know the reasons for such behavior. Also, there is a low awareness of the significant risk of hepatitis transmission among orthopaedic surgeons treating a population with a high prevalence of undiagnosed hepatitis.

Longitudinal trends in HIV nonoccupational postexposure prophylaxis use at a Boston community health center between 1997 and 2013

Secular trends in nonoccupational postexposure prophylaxis (NPEP) use have not been well characterized. We performed a retrospective longitudinal study of 894 electronic medical records of NPEP users, mostly men who have sex with men, at a Boston community health center who presented between July 1997 and August 2013. NPEP use and condomless sexual exposures increased over time; 19.4% had multiple NPEP courses. Having an HIV-infected partner was associated with increased odds of regimen completion, and 3-drug regimens were associated with decreased odds of completion. Targeted adherence and risk-reduction counseling are warranted for select NPEP users at this center.

Comparing the novel method of assessing PrEP adherence/exposure using hair samples to other pharmacologic and traditional measures

OBJECTIVE

The efficacy of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in HIV will diminish with poor adherence; pharmacologic measures of drug exposure have proven critical to PrEP trial interpretation. We assessed drug exposure in hair against other pharmacologic and more routinely used measures to assess pill-taking.

DESIGN

Participants were randomized to placebo, daily PrEP, or intermittent PrEP to evaluate safety and tolerability of daily versus intermittent tenofovir/emtricitabine (TFV/FTC) in 2 phase II PrEP clinical trials conducted in Africa. Different measures of drug exposure, including self-report, medication event monitoring system (MEMS)-caps openings, and TFV/FTC levels in hair and other biomatrices were compared.

METHODS

At weeks 8 and 16, self-reported pill-taking, MEMS-caps openings, and TFV/FTC levels in hair, plasma, and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were measured. Regression models evaluated predictors of TFV/FTC concentrations in the 3 biomatrices; correlation coefficients between pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic measures were calculated. Both trials were registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT00931346/NCT00971230).

RESULTS

Hair collection was highly feasible and acceptable (100% in week 8; 96% in week 16). In multivariate analysis, strong associations were seen between pharmacologic measures and MEMS-caps openings (all P < 0.001); self-report was only weakly associated with pharmacologic measures. TFV/FTC hair concentrations were significantly correlated with levels in plasma and PBMCs (correlation coefficients, 0.41-0.86, all P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Measuring TFV/FTC exposure in small hair samples in African PrEP trials was feasible and acceptable. Hair levels correlated strongly with PBMC, plasma concentrations, and MEMS-caps openings. As in other PrEP trials, self-report was the weakest measure of exposure. Further study of hair TFV/FTC levels in PrEP trials and demonstration projects to assess adherence/exposure is warranted.

Current perspectives in HIV post-exposure prophylaxis

The incidence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection continues to rise among core groups and efforts to reduce the numbers of new infections are being redoubled. Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is the use of short-term antiretroviral therapy (ART) to reduce the risk of acquisition of HIV infection following exposure. Current guidelines recommend a 28-day course of ART within 36-72 hours of exposure to HIV. As long as individuals continue to be exposed to HIV there will be a role for PEP in the foreseeable future. Nonoccupational PEP, the vast majority of which is for sexual exposure (PEPSE), has a significant role to play in HIV prevention efforts. Awareness of PEP and its availability for both clinicians and those who are eligible to receive it are crucial to ensure that PEP is used to its full potential in any HIV prevention strategy. In this review, we provide current evidence for the use of PEPSE, assessment of the risk of HIV transmission, indications for PEP, drug regimens, and management of patients started on PEP. We summarize national and international guidelines for the use of PEPSE. We explore the place of PEP within the wider strategy of reducing HIV incidence rates in the era of treatment as prevention and pre-exposure prophylaxis. We also consider the implications of recent data from interventional and observational studies demonstrating significant reductions in the risk of HIV transmission within a serodiscordant relationship if the HIV-positive partner is taking effective ART upon PEP guidelines.

Prevention of human immunodeficiency virus and AIDS: postexposure prophylaxis (including health care workers)

Postexposure prophylaxis (PEP), which is designed to prevent human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection after an exposure, is one of several strategies for HIV prevention. PEP was first used after occupational HIV exposures in the late 1980s, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issuing the first set of guidelines that included considerations regarding the use of antiretroviral agents for PEP after occupational HIV exposures in 1990. Use of PEP has been extended to nonoccupational exposures, including after sexual contact or injection-drug use. This article provides a rationale for PEP, assessment of the need for PEP, and details of its implementation.

Non-occupational post-exposure prophylaxis for HIV: 10-year retrospective analysis in Seattle, Washington

Despite treatment guidelines in place since 2005, non-occupational post-exposure HIV prophylaxis (nPEP) remains an underutilized prevention strategy. We conducted a retrospective chart review of patients presenting to a publicly-funded HIV clinic in Seattle, Washington for nPEP between 2000 and 2010 (N = 360). nPEP prescriptions were provided for 324 (90%) patients; 83% of prescription decisions were appropriate according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines, but only 31% (N = 111/360) of patients were considered "high risk." In order to use limited resources most efficiently, public health agencies should target messaging for this high-cost intervention to individuals with high-risk HIV exposures.