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Zhang Y, Vodstrcil LA, Htaik K, Plummer EL, De Petra V, Sen MG, Williamson DA, Owlad M, Murray G, Chow EP, Fairley CK, Bradshaw CS, Ong JJ. Economic evaluation alongside a clinical trial of near-to-patient testing for sexually transmitted infections. J Infect Public Health 2024; 17:102447. [PMID: 38824739 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2024.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Current clinical care for common bacterial STIs (Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) and Mycoplasma genitalium (MG)) involves empiric antimicrobial therapy when clients are symptomatic, or if asymptomatic, waiting for laboratory testing and recall if indicated. Near-to-patient testing (NPT) can improve pathogen-specific prescribing and reduce unnecessary or inappropriate antibiotic use in treating sexually transmitted infections (STI) by providing same-day delivery of results and treatment. METHODS We compared the economic cost of NPT to current clinic practice for managing clients with suspected proctitis, non-gonococcal urethritis (NGU), or as an STI contact, from a health provider's perspective. With a microsimulation of 1000 clients, we calculated the cost per client tested and per STI- and pathogen- detected for each testing strategy. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to assess the robustness of the main outcomes. Costs are reported as Australian dollars (2023). RESULTS In the standard care arm, cost per client tested for proctitis, NGU in men who have sex with men (MSM) and heterosexual men were the highest at $247.96 (95% Prediction Interval (PI): 246.77-249.15), $204.23 (95% PI: 202.70-205.75) and $195.01 (95% PI: 193.81-196.21) respectively. Comparatively, in the NPT arm, it costs $162.36 (95% PI: 161.43-163.28), $158.39 (95% PI: 157.62-159.15) and $149.17 (95% PI: 148.62-149.73), respectively. Using NPT resulted in cost savings of 34.52%, 22.45% and 23.51%, respectively. Among all the testing strategies, substantial difference in cost per client tested between the standard care arm and the NPT arm was observed for contacts of CT or NG, varying from 27.37% to 35.28%. CONCLUSION We found that NPT is cost-saving compared with standard clinical care for individuals with STI symptoms and sexual contacts of CT, NG, and MG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zhang
- School of Translational Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lenka A Vodstrcil
- School of Translational Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kay Htaik
- School of Translational Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Erica L Plummer
- School of Translational Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Vesna De Petra
- Microbiological Diagnostic Unit Public Health Laboratory, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity at The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Melodi G Sen
- Microbiological Diagnostic Unit Public Health Laboratory, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity at The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Deborah A Williamson
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The University of Melbourne at The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Monica Owlad
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Gerald Murray
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Women's Centre for Infectious Diseases, The Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Eric Pf Chow
- School of Translational Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Christopher K Fairley
- School of Translational Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Catriona S Bradshaw
- School of Translational Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jason J Ong
- School of Translational Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
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Brown JE, Hudson KM, Rompalo AM, Gaydos CA. Patterns of Use and Barriers to STI Point-of-care Tests for Military Obstetrician Gynecologists. Mil Med 2024:usae283. [PMID: 38836861 DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usae283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 05/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are commonly reported in military populations. Point-of-care tests (POCTs) are commercially available, but their use is variable in the civilian sector. Their use among military providers has not been evaluated. We sought to identify the pattern of use and barriers to using STI POCTs for military obstetrician/gynecologists (OBGYNs). MATERIALS AND METHODS We adapted a survey of civilian OBGYNs on patterns of use and barriers to STI POCTs for military OBGYNs. We sent an online questionnaire to 479 military OBGYNs via Army, Air Force, and Navy specialty leaders in May 2023. The questionnaire included 14 demographic questions and up to 52 questions regarding availability, use, and barriers to STI POCTs. The USU Institutional Review Board deemed the study exempt from Institutional Review Board review. RESULTS Of the 479 solicited, 117 participated in the survey (24.4%). Of respondents, 64.1% were women and 79.5% non-Hispanic white. Sexually transmitted infections were detected once to twice weekly by 13.0% of respondents and once or twice monthly by 52.8%. The most available STI-related POCTs were wet mount prep (68.7%), rapid HIV (43.3%), and urine dipstick (38.6%). Gram stain was available for 30.3%, the Affirm VPIII (Becton, Dickinson and Company, Franklin Lakes, NJ) for 24.5%, and stat RPR for 16.3%. Economic barriers to using POCTs included cost of the test from manufacturer/distributor (57.9%) and military funding/stocking decisions (10.3%). The greatest barriers to use were the purchasing of an instrument (60.8%) and the interruption to workflow in clinic (57.8%). CONCLUSIONS Military OBGYNs rely on several STI-related POCTs. Economic factors and interruption to workflow were cited as the most significant barriers to using POCTs for military OBGYNs. Test cost and impact on workflow should be considered in future development and procurement of POCTs for the Military Health System.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill E Brown
- Department of Gynecologic Surgery and Obstetrics, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Kayla M Hudson
- Department of Gynecologic Surgery and Obstetrics, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Anne M Rompalo
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Charlotte A Gaydos
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
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Tolley A, Bansal A, Murerwa R, Howard Dicks J. Cost-effectiveness of point-of-care diagnostics for AMR: a systematic review. J Antimicrob Chemother 2024; 79:1248-1269. [PMID: 38498622 PMCID: PMC11144491 DOI: 10.1093/jac/dkae067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major threat to global health. By 2050, it is forecast that AMR will cause 10 million deaths and cost 100 trillion USD annually. Point-of-care tests (POCTs) may represent a cost-effective approach to reduce AMR. OBJECTIVES We systematically reviewed which POCTs addressing AMR have undergone economic evaluation in primary and secondary healthcare globally, how these POCTs have been economically evaluated, and which are cost-effective in reducing antimicrobial prescribing or the burden of AMR. Clinical cost-effectiveness was additionally addressed. METHODS This systematic review, accordant with PRISMA guidelines, was pre-registered on PROSPERO (CRD42022315192). MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar were searched from 2000 to 2023 for relevant publications. Quality assessment was performed using the Consensus of Health Economic Criteria. RESULTS The search strategy identified 1421 studies, of which 20 met the inclusion criteria. The most common POCTs assessed were for respiratory infections (n = 10), STIs (n = 3), and febrile patients in low- and middle-income countries (n = 3). All studies assessed costs from a healthcare provider perspective; five additionally considered the societal cost of AMR.Eighteen studies identified POCT strategies that reduced antimicrobial prescribing. Of these, 10 identified POCTs that would be considered cost-effective at a willingness-to-pay (WTP) threshold of £33.80 per antibiotic prescription avoided. Most POCT strategies improved clinical outcomes (n = 14); the remainder were clinically neutral. CONCLUSIONS There is evidence that some POCTs are cost-effective in reducing antimicrobial prescribing, with potential concomitant clinical benefits. Such interventions-especially CRP POCTs in both high- and low-income settings-merit further, large-scale clinical evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abraham Tolley
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Akhil Bansal
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Department of Internal Medicine, St Vincent’s Hospital, Sydney, Australia
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Welford E, Martin TCS, Martin NK, Tilghman W, Little SJ. Relative Cost and Infectious Days Averted Associated With Rapid Gonorrhea and Chlamydia Testing Among Men Who Have Sex With Men. Sex Transm Dis 2024; 51:388-392. [PMID: 38733972 PMCID: PMC11090409 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001956] [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] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Standard-of-care nucleic acid amplification tests (routine NAATs) for Neisseria gonorrhoeae (GC) and Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) can take several days to result and therefore delay treatment. Rapid point-of-care GC/CT NAAT (rapid NAAT) could reduce the time to treatment and therefore onward transmission. This study evaluated the incremental cost per infectious day averted and overall cost of implementation associated with rapid compared with routine NAAT. METHODS Prospective sexually transmitted infection (STI) treatment data from men who have sex with men and transgender women in San Diego who received rapid NAAT between November 2018 and February 2021 were evaluated. Historical time from testing to treatment for routine NAAT was abstracted from the literature. Costs per test for rapid and routine NAAT were calculated using a micro-costing approach. The incremental cost per infectious day averted comparing rapid to routine NAAT and the costs of rapid GC/CT NAAT implementation in San Diego Public Health STI clinics were calculated. RESULTS Overall, 2333 individuals underwent rapid NAAT with a median time from sample collection to treatment of 2 days compared with 7 to 14 days for routine NAAT equating to a reduction of 5 to 12 days. The cost of rapid and routine GC/CT NAAT was $57.86 and $18.38 per test, respectively, with a cost-effectiveness of between $2.43 and $5.82 per infectious day averted. The incremental cost of rapid NAAT improved when at least 2000 tests were performed annually. CONCLUSIONS Although rapid GC/CT NAAT is more expensive than routine testing, the reduction of infectious days between testing and treatment may reduce transmission and provide improved STI treatment services to patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elliott Welford
- From the Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego
| | - Thomas C S Martin
- From the Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego
| | - Natasha K Martin
- From the Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego
| | - Winston Tilghman
- County of San Diego Health & Human Services Agency, San Diego, CA
| | - Susan J Little
- From the Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego
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Wilkinson AF, Barra MJ, Novak EN, Bond M, Richards-Kortum R. Point-of-care isothermal nucleic acid amplification tests: progress and bottlenecks for extraction-free sample collection and preparation. Expert Rev Mol Diagn 2024; 24:509-524. [PMID: 38973430 DOI: 10.1080/14737159.2024.2375233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Suitable sample collection and preparation methods are essential to enable nucleic acid amplification testing at the point of care (POC). Strategies that allow direct isothermal nucleic acid amplification testing (iNAAT) of crude sample lysate without the need for nucleic acid extraction minimize time to result as well as the need for operator expertise and costly infrastructure. AREAS COVERED The authors review research to understand how sample matrix and preparation affect the design and performance of POC iNAATs. They focus on approaches where samples are directly combined with liquid reagents for preparation and amplification via iNAAT strategies. They review factors related to the type and method of sample collection, storage buffers, and lysis strategies. Finally, they discuss RNA targets and relevant regulatory considerations. EXPERT OPINION Limitations in sample preparation methods are a significant technical barrier preventing implementation of nucleic acid testing at the POC. The authors propose a framework for co-designing sample preparation and amplification steps for optimal performance with an extraction-free paradigm by considering a sample matrix and lytic strategy prior to an amplification assay and readout. In the next 5 years, the authors anticipate increasing priority on the co-design of sample preparation and iNAATs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maria J Barra
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Emilie N Novak
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Meaghan Bond
- Rice360 Institute for Global Health Technologies, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Rebecca Richards-Kortum
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA
- Rice360 Institute for Global Health Technologies, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA
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Walter SR, Jackson J, Myring G, Redaniel MT, Margelyte R, Gardiner R, Clarke MD, Crofts M, McLeod H, Hollingworth W, Phillips D, Muir P, Steer J, Turner J, Horner PJ, De Vocht F. Impact of rapid near-patient STI testing on service delivery outcomes in an integrated sexual health service in the United Kingdom: a controlled interrupted time series study. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e064664. [PMID: 36631238 PMCID: PMC9835959 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-064664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the impact of a new clinic-based rapid sexually transmitted infection testing, diagnosis and treatment service on healthcare delivery and resource needs in an integrated sexual health service. DESIGN Controlled interrupted time series study. SETTING Two integrated sexual health services (SHS) in UK: Unity Sexual Health in Bristol, UK (intervention site) and Croydon Sexual Health in London (control site). PARTICIPANTS Electronic patient records for all 58 418 attendances during the period 1 year before and 1 year after the intervention. INTERVENTION Introduction of an in-clinic rapid testing system for gonorrhoea and chlamydia in combination with revised treatment pathways. OUTCOME MEASURES Time-to-test notification, staff capacity, cost per episode of care and overall service costs. We also assessed rates of gonorrhoea culture swabs, follow-up attendances and examinations. RESULTS Time-to-notification and the rate of gonorrhoea swabs significantly decreased following implementation of the new system. There was no evidence of change in follow-up visits or examination rates for patients seen in clinic related to the new system. Staff capacity in clinics appeared to be maintained across the study period. Overall, the number of episodes per week was unchanged in the intervention site, and the mean cost per episode decreased by 7.5% (95% CI 5.7% to 9.3%). CONCLUSIONS The clear improvement in time-to-notification, while maintaining activity at a lower overall cost, suggests that the implementation of clinic-based testing had the intended impact, which bolsters the case for more widespread rollout in sexual health services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott R Walter
- National Institute for Health and Care Research, Applied Research Collaboration West (NIHR ARC West), University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Joni Jackson
- National Institute for Health and Care Research, Applied Research Collaboration West (NIHR ARC West), University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Gareth Myring
- National Institute for Health and Care Research, Applied Research Collaboration West (NIHR ARC West), University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Maria Theresa Redaniel
- National Institute for Health and Care Research, Applied Research Collaboration West (NIHR ARC West), University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Ruta Margelyte
- National Institute for Health and Care Research, Applied Research Collaboration West (NIHR ARC West), University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Rebecca Gardiner
- Unity Sexual Health, University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
- Bristol Haematology and Oncology Centre, University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - Michael D Clarke
- Unity Sexual Health, University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - Megan Crofts
- Unity Sexual Health, University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - Hugh McLeod
- National Institute for Health and Care Research, Applied Research Collaboration West (NIHR ARC West), University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - William Hollingworth
- National Institute for Health and Care Research, Applied Research Collaboration West (NIHR ARC West), University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - David Phillips
- Croydon Sexual Health, Croydon University Hospital, Croydon, UK
| | - Peter Muir
- Southwest Regional Laboratory, UK Health Security Agency, North Bristol NHS Trust, Bristol, UK
- National Institute for Health and Care Research, Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation (NIHR HPRU), University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Jonathan Steer
- Southwest Regional Laboratory, UK Health Security Agency, North Bristol NHS Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - Jonathan Turner
- Southwest Regional Laboratory, UK Health Security Agency, North Bristol NHS Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - Paddy J Horner
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Unity Sexual Health, University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
- National Institute for Health and Care Research, Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation (NIHR HPRU), University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Frank De Vocht
- National Institute for Health and Care Research, Applied Research Collaboration West (NIHR ARC West), University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
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Geisler WM, Hocking JS, Darville T, Batteiger BE, Brunham RC. Diagnosis and Management of Uncomplicated Chlamydia trachomatis Infections in Adolescents and Adults: Summary of Evidence Reviewed for the 2021 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Sexually Transmitted Infections Treatment Guidelines. Clin Infect Dis 2022; 74:S112-S126. [PMID: 35416965 PMCID: PMC9006972 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciac126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
To prepare for the development of the 2021 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) sexually transmitted infections treatment guidelines, the CDC convened a committee of expert consultants in June 2019 to discuss recent abstracts and published literature on the epidemiology, diagnosis, and management of sexually transmitted infections.This paper summarizes the key questions, evidence, and recommendations for the diagnosis and management of uncomplicated Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) infections in adolescents and adults that were reviewed and discussed for consideration in developing the guidelines. The evidence reviewed mostly focused on efficacy of doxycycline and azithromycin for urogenital, rectal, and oropharyngeal CT infection, CT risk factors in women, performance of CT nucleic acid amplification tests on self-collected meatal specimens in men, and performance of newer CT point-of-care tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- William M Geisler
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine and Department of Epidemiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Jane S Hocking
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Toni Darville
- Department of Pediatrics and Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Byron E Batteiger
- Department of Medicine and Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Robert C Brunham
- Vaccine Research Laboratory, University of British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, Canada
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Huntington S, Weston G, Adams E. Assessing the clinical impact and resource use of a 30-minute chlamydia and gonorrhoea point-of-care test at three sexual health services. Ther Adv Infect Dis 2021; 8:20499361211061645. [PMID: 34881023 PMCID: PMC8647227 DOI: 10.1177/20499361211061645] [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: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives To assess clinical metrics and resource use of a 30-minute point-of-care test (POCT) for Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) compared to laboratory-based testing. Methods Three English sexual health services (SHSs) were recruited as part of a study. Existing processes for CT/NG testing and treatment were assessed, and adaptions to incorporate the CT/NG POCT were developed during semi-structured interviews. Staff time and consumables data were collected by clinic staff prior to and following introduction of the POCT. Results SHSs selected patient groups for whom the CT/NG POCT would be used. Testing and treatment process data were collected for 225 patients (n = 118 POC; n = 107 standard). The percentage of patients receiving unnecessary CT treatment was 5% (5/95) and 13% (12/93) for POC and standard care respectively. The average CT/NG pathway cost varied and was on average £61.55 for POC and £50.88 for standard care. For the two SHSs where the POCT was used during a patient's visit, for standard and POC respectively, the average time to CT treatment was 10.0 and 0.0 days and to NG treatment, 0.3 and 0.0 days. Conclusion Use of a 30-minute POCT at three SHSs yielded clinical benefits by reducing time to treatment and unnecessary CT treatment.
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Jacups SP, Potter C, Yarwood T, Doyle-Adams S, Russell D. How accurate is presumptive Chlamydia trachomatis treatment? A 6-month clinical audit of a walk-in sexual health service. Sex Health 2021; 18:413-420. [PMID: 34742364 DOI: 10.1071/sh21078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Background Chlamydia trachomatis (chlamydia) is highly prevalent and is an important sexually transmitted infection as it can lead to increased risk of HIV seroconversion; and if left untreated, can cause infertility in women. Clinical guidelines recommend treating chlamydia presumptively when presenting symptomatically; however, clinicians are now questioning this due to increasing prevalence of antimicrobial resistance. Methods To determine the accuracy of presumptive chlamydia treatment practices at a walk-in sexual health service in regional Australia, we audited all same-day screen and treat presentations prescribed azithromycin over a 6-month period in 2018. Results A total of 325 cases were included in the analysis. Over half (54%) the presentations returned negative pathology for all pathogens investigated. One quarter (25%) of presentations were positive for chlamydia, and (4%) reported a dual infection. A further one fifth (20%) were negative for chlamydia but positive for another pathogen. More symptomatic males than females returned positive pathology for chlamydia (8% vs 4%). Conclusions While presumptive treatment is recommended in the current guidelines, our findings indicate this resulted in over-treatment. Considering the increasing resistance patterns for Mycoplasma genitalium, which include azithromycin, presumptive treatments need to balance immediate client care needs against long-term community antimicrobial resistance outcomes. This internal audit provided a feedback mechanism to the walk-in sexual service, enabling modification of practices to provide more precise, individual clinical care within the bounds of current STI guidelines, while balancing wider the objectives of antimicrobial stewardship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan P Jacups
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Qld 4067, Australia; and The Cairns Institute, James Cook University, McGregor Road, Smithfield, Qld 4878, Australia
| | - Caroline Potter
- Cairns Sexual Health Service, Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service, Cairns, Qld 4870, Australia
| | - Trent Yarwood
- Cairns Sexual Health Service, Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service, Cairns, Qld 4870, Australia; and Infectious Diseases, Cairns Hospital, Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service, Cairns, Qld 4870, Australia; and School of Clinical Medicine, University of Queensland, Herston, Qld 4006, Australia; and College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Cairns, Qld 4870, Australia
| | - Simon Doyle-Adams
- Cairns Sexual Health Service, Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service, Cairns, Qld 4870, Australia
| | - Darren Russell
- Cairns Sexual Health Service, Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service, Cairns, Qld 4870, Australia; and College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Cairns, Qld 4870, Australia
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Fuller SS, Clarke E, Harding-Esch EM. Molecular chlamydia and gonorrhoea point of care tests implemented into routine practice: Systematic review and value proposition development. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0259593. [PMID: 34748579 PMCID: PMC8575247 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0259593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexually Transmitted Infections, including Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) and Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), continue to be a global health problem. Increased access to point-of-care-tests (POCTs) could help detect infection and lead to appropriate management of cases and contacts, reducing transmission and development of reproductive health sequelae. Yet diagnostics with good clinical effectiveness evidence can fail to be implemented into routine care. Here we assess values beyond clinical effectiveness for molecular CT/NG POCTs implemented across diverse routine practice settings. METHODS We conducted a systematic review of peer-reviewed primary research and conference abstract publications in Medline and Embase reporting on molecular CT/NG POCT implementation in routine clinical practice until 16th February 2021. Results were extracted into EndNote software and initially screened by title and abstract by one author according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Articles that met the criteria, or were unclear, were included for full-text assessment by all authors. Results were synthesised to assess the tests against guidance criteria and develop a CT/NG POCT value proposition for multiple stakeholders and settings. FINDINGS The systematic review search returned 440 articles; 28 were included overall. The Cepheid CT/NG GeneXpert was the only molecular CT/NG POCT implemented and evaluated in routine practice. It did not fulfil all test guidance criteria, however, studies of test implementation showed multiple values for test use across various healthcare settings and locations. Our value proposition highlights that the majority of values are setting-specific. Sexual health services and outreach services have the least overlap, with General Practice and other non-sexual health specialist services serving as a "bridge" between the two. CONCLUSIONS Those wishing to improve CT/NG diagnosis should be supported to identify the values most relevant to their settings and context, and prioritise implementation of tests that are most closely aligned with those values.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian S. Fuller
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Applied Diagnostic Research and Evaluation Unit, St George’s University of London, London, United Kingdom
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, Health Systems Collaborative, University of Oxford, Headington, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Eleanor Clarke
- Clinical Research Department, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Emma M. Harding-Esch
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Applied Diagnostic Research and Evaluation Unit, St George’s University of London, London, United Kingdom
- Clinical Research Department, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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11
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Lorenc A, Brangan E, Kesten JM, Horner PJ, Clarke M, Crofts M, Steer J, Turner J, Muir P, Horwood J. What can be learnt from a qualitative evaluation of implementing a rapid sexual health testing, diagnosis and treatment service? BMJ Open 2021; 11:e050109. [PMID: 34686552 PMCID: PMC8543645 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-050109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate experiences of implementing a new rapid sexual health testing, diagnosis and treatment service. DESIGN A theory-based qualitative evaluation with a focused ethnographic approach using non-participant observations and interviews with patient and clinic staff. Normalisation process theory was used to structure interview questions and thematic analysis. SETTING A sexual health centre in Bristol, UK. PARTICIPANTS 26 patients and 21 staff involved in the rapid sexually transmitted infection (STI) service were interviewed. Purposive sampling was aimed for a range of views and experiences and sociodemographics and STI results for patients, job grades and roles for staff. 40 hours of observations were conducted. RESULTS Implementation of the new service required co-ordinated changes in practice across multiple staff teams. Patients also needed to make changes to how they accessed the service. Multiple small 'pilots' of process changes were necessary to find workable options. For example, the service was introduced in phases beginning with male patients. This responsive operating mode created challenges for delivering comprehensive training and communication in advance to all staff. However, staff worked together to adjust and improve the new service, and morale was buoyed through observing positive impacts on patient care. Patients valued faster results and avoiding unnecessary treatment. Patients reported that they were willing to drop-off self-samples and return for a follow-up appointment, enabling infection-specific treatment in accordance with test results, thus improving antimicrobial stewardship. CONCLUSIONS The new service was acceptable to staff and patients. Implementation of service changes to improve access and delivery of care in the context of stretched resources can pose challenges for staff at all levels. Early evaluation of pilots of process changes played an important role in the success of the service by rapidly feeding back issues for adjustment. Visibility to staff of positive impacts on patient care is important in maintaining morale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ava Lorenc
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- National Institute for Health Research, Applied Research Collaboration West (NIHR ARC West), University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Emer Brangan
- Department of Nursing and Midwifery, University of the West of England, Bristol, UK
| | - Joanna M Kesten
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- National Institute for Health Research, Applied Research Collaboration West (NIHR ARC West), University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Paddy J Horner
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Unity Sexual Health, University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - Michael Clarke
- Unity Sexual Health, University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - Megan Crofts
- Unity Sexual Health, University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - Jonathan Steer
- South West Regional Laboratory, National Infection Service, Public Health England, Bristol, UK
| | - Jonathan Turner
- South West Regional Laboratory, National Infection Service, Public Health England, Bristol, UK
| | - Peter Muir
- South West Regional Laboratory, National Infection Service, Public Health England, Bristol, UK
| | - Jeremy Horwood
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- National Institute for Health Research, Applied Research Collaboration West (NIHR ARC West), University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
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Laughton M, Patel NC, Dawoodbhoy FM, El-Ghrably S, Mahmud S. Comparison of Levonorgestrel-releasing Intrauterine System (LNG-IUS) against Laparoscopic Assisted Supracervical Hysterectomy (LASH) for menorrhagia treatment: An economic evaluation. J Gynecol Obstet Hum Reprod 2021; 50:102229. [PMID: 34520876 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogoh.2021.102229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This economic evaluation and literature review was conducted with the primary aim to compare the cost-effectiveness of laparoscopic assisted supracervical hysterectomy (LASH) with NICE's gold-standard treatment of Levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) for menorrhagia. MATERIALS AND METHODS A cost-utility analysis was conducted from an NHS perspective, using data from two European studies to compare the treatments. Individual costs and benefits were assessed within one year of having the intervention. An Incremental Cost-Effectiveness Ratio (ICER) was calculated, followed by sensitivity analysis. Expected Quality Adjusted Life Years (QALYS) and costs to the NHS were calculated alongside health net benefits (HNB) and monetary net benefits (MNB). RESULTS A QALY gain of 0.069 was seen in use of LNG-IUS compared to LASH. This yielded a MNB between -£44.99 and -£734.99, alongside a HNB between -0.0705 QALYs and -0.106 QALYS. Using a £20,000-£30,000/QALY limit outlined by NICE,this showed the LNG-IUS to be more cost-effective than LASH, with LASH exceeding the upper bound of the £30,000/QALY limit. Sensitivity analysis lowered the ICER below the given threshold. CONCLUSIONS The ICER demonstrates it would not be cost-effective to replace the current gold-standard LNG-IUS with LASH, when treating menorrhagia in the UK. The ICER's proximity to the threshold and its high sensitivity alludes to the necessity for further research to generate a more reliable cost-effectiveness estimate. However, LASH could be considered as a first line treatment option in women with no desire to have children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Laughton
- University of Southampton Faculty of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom; Imperial College Business School, South Kensington Campus, Exhibition Rd, London
| | - Natasha Chandrakant Patel
- Imperial College Business School, South Kensington Campus, Exhibition Rd, London; Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Fatema Mustansir Dawoodbhoy
- Imperial College Business School, South Kensington Campus, Exhibition Rd, London; Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Salma El-Ghrably
- Imperial College Business School, South Kensington Campus, Exhibition Rd, London; Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Saheel Mahmud
- Imperial College Business School, South Kensington Campus, Exhibition Rd, London; King's College London Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine London, London, United Kingdom
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13
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Lingervelder D, Koffijberg H, Kusters R, IJzerman MJ. Health Economic Evidence of Point-of-Care Testing: A Systematic Review. PHARMACOECONOMICS - OPEN 2021; 5:157-173. [PMID: 33405188 PMCID: PMC8160040 DOI: 10.1007/s41669-020-00248-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/12/2020] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Point-of-care testing (POCT) has become an essential diagnostic technology for optimal patient care. Its implementation, however, still falls behind. This paper reviews the available evidence on the health economic impact of introducing POCT to assess if poor POCT uptake may be related to lacking evidence. STUDY DESIGN The Scopus and PubMed databases were searched to identify publications describing a health economic evaluation of a point-of-care (POC) test. Data were extracted from the included publications, including general and methodological characteristics as well as the study results summarized in either cost, effects or an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio. Results were sorted into six groups according to the POC test's purpose (diagnosis, screening or monitoring) and care setting (primary care or secondary care). The reporting quality of the publications was determined using the CHEERS checklist. RESULTS The initial search resulted in 396 publications, of which 44 met the inclusion criteria. Most of the evaluations were performed in a primary care setting (n = 31; 70.5%) compared with a secondary care setting (n = 13; 29.5%). About two thirds of the evaluations were on POC tests implemented with a diagnostic purpose (n = 28; 63.6%). More than 75% of evaluations concluded that POCT is recommended for implementation, although in some cases only under specific circumstances and conditions. Compliance with the CHEERS checklist items ranged from 20.8% to 100%, with an average reporting quality of 72.0%. CONCLUSION There were very few evaluations in this review that advised against the implementation of POCT. However, the uptake of POCT in many countries remains low. Even though the evaluations included in this review did not always include the full long-term benefits of POCT, it is clear that health economic evidence across a few dimensions of value already indicate the benefits of POCT. This suggests that the lack of evidence on POCT is not the primary barrier to its implementation and that the low uptake of these tests in clinical practice is due to (a combination of) other barriers. In this context, aspects around organization of care, support of clinicians and quality management may be crucial in the widespread implementation of POCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deon Lingervelder
- Health Technology and Services Research Department, Technical Medical Centre, University of Twente, P.O. Box 217, Enschede, 7500 AE, The Netherlands
| | - Hendrik Koffijberg
- Health Technology and Services Research Department, Technical Medical Centre, University of Twente, P.O. Box 217, Enschede, 7500 AE, The Netherlands
| | - Ron Kusters
- Health Technology and Services Research Department, Technical Medical Centre, University of Twente, P.O. Box 217, Enschede, 7500 AE, The Netherlands
- Laboratory for Clinical Chemistry and Haematology, Jeroen Bosch Hospital, 's Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands
| | - Maarten J IJzerman
- Health Technology and Services Research Department, Technical Medical Centre, University of Twente, P.O. Box 217, Enschede, 7500 AE, The Netherlands.
- Cancer Health Services Research Unit, School of Population and Global Health, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.
- Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia.
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14
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Harding-Esch EM, Huntington SE, Harvey MJ, Weston G, Broad CE, Adams EJ, Sadiq ST. Antimicrobial resistance point-of-care testing for gonorrhoea treatment regimens: cost-effectiveness and impact on ceftriaxone use of five hypothetical strategies compared with standard care in England sexual health clinics. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 25. [PMID: 33124553 PMCID: PMC7596918 DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es.2020.25.43.1900402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Background Widespread ceftriaxone antimicrobial resistance (AMR) threatens Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) treatment, with few alternatives available. AMR point-of-care tests (AMR POCT) may enable alternative treatments, including abandoned regimens, sparing ceftriaxone use. We assessed cost-effectiveness of five hypothetical AMR POCT strategies: A-C included a second antibiotic alongside ceftriaxone; and D and E consisted of a single antibiotic alternative, compared with standard care (SC: ceftriaxone and azithromycin). Aim Assess costs and effectiveness of AMR POCT strategies that optimise NG treatment and reduce ceftriaxone use. Methods The five AMR POCT treatment strategies were compared using a decision tree model simulating 38,870 NG-diagnosed England sexual health clinic (SHC) attendees; A micro-costing approach, representing cost to the SHC (for 2015/16), was employed. Primary outcomes were: total costs; percentage of patients given optimal treatment (regimens curing NG, without AMR); percentage of patients given non-ceftriaxone optimal treatment; cost-effectiveness (cost per optimal treatment gained). Results All strategies cost more than SC. Strategy B (azithromycin and ciprofloxacin (azithromycin preferred); dual therapy) avoided most suboptimal treatments (n = 48) but cost most to implement (GBP 4,093,844 (EUR 5,474,656)). Strategy D (azithromycin AMR POCT; monotherapy) was most cost-effective for both cost per optimal treatments gained (GBP 414.67 (EUR 554.53)) and per ceftriaxone-sparing treatment (GBP 11.29 (EUR 15.09)) but with treatment failures (n = 34) and suboptimal treatments (n = 706). Conclusions AMR POCT may enable improved antibiotic stewardship, but require net health system investment. A small reduction in test cost would enable monotherapy AMR POCT strategies to be cost-saving.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma M Harding-Esch
- National Infection Service, Public Health England, London, United Kingdom.,Applied Diagnostic Research and Evaluation Unit, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | - Claire E Broad
- Applied Diagnostic Research and Evaluation Unit, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - S Tariq Sadiq
- St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom.,National Infection Service, Public Health England, London, United Kingdom.,Applied Diagnostic Research and Evaluation Unit, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, United Kingdom
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15
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Rönn MM, Menzies NA, Gift TL, Chesson HW, Trikalinos TA, Bellerose M, Malyuta Y, Berruti A, Gaydos CA, Hsu KK, Salomon JA. Potential for Point-of-Care Tests to Reduce Chlamydia-associated Burden in the United States: A Mathematical Modeling Analysis. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 70:1816-1823. [PMID: 31504314 PMCID: PMC7048627 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciz519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2018] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Point-of-care testing (POCT) assays for chlamydia are being developed. Their potential impact on the burden of chlamydial infection in the United States, in light of suboptimal screening coverage, remains unclear. Methods Using a transmission model calibrated to data in the United States, we estimated the impact of POCT on chlamydia prevalence, incidence, and chlamydia-attributable pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) incidence, assuming status quo (Analysis 1) and improved (Analysis 2) screening frequencies. We tested the robustness of results to changes in POCT sensitivity, the proportion of patients getting treated immediately, the baseline proportion lost to follow-up (LTFU), and the average treatment delay. Results In Analysis 1, high POCT sensitivity was needed to reduce the chlamydia-associated burden. With a POCT sensitivity of 90%, reductions from the baseline burden only occurred in scenarios in which over 60% of the screened individuals would get immediate treatment and the baseline LTFU proportion was 20%. With a POCT sensitivity of 99% (baseline LTFU 10%, 2-week treatment delay), if everyone were treated immediately, the prevalence reduction was estimated at 5.7% (95% credible interval [CrI] 3.9–8.2%). If only 30% of tested persons would wait for results, the prevalence reduction was only 1.6% (95% CrI 1.1–2.3). POCT with 99% sensitivity could avert up to 12 700 (95% CrI 5000–22 200) PID cases per year, if 100% were treated immediately (baseline LTFU 20% and 3-week treatment delay). In Analysis 2, when POCT was coupled with increasing screening coverage, reductions in the chlamydia burden could be realized with a POCT sensitivity of 90%. Conclusions POCT could improve chlamydia prevention efforts if test performance characteristics are significantly improved over currently available options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minttu M Rönn
- Prevention Policy Modeling Lab, Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Nicolas A Menzies
- Prevention Policy Modeling Lab, Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Thomas L Gift
- Division of Sexually Transmitted Disease Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Harrell W Chesson
- Division of Sexually Transmitted Disease Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Tom A Trikalinos
- Department of Health Services Policy & Practice, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Meghan Bellerose
- Prevention Policy Modeling Lab, Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Yelena Malyuta
- Prevention Policy Modeling Lab, Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Andrés Berruti
- Division of Sexually Transmitted Disease Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Charlotte A Gaydos
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, John Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Katherine K Hsu
- Division of Sexually Transmitted Disease Prevention & Human Immunodeficiency Virus/AIDS Surveillance, Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Boston
| | - Joshua A Salomon
- Prevention Policy Modeling Lab, Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts.,Center for Health Policy/Center for Primary Care and Outcomes Research, Stanford University, California
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16
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Adamson PC, Loeffelholz MJ, Klausner JD. Point-of-Care Testing for Sexually Transmitted Infections: A Review of Recent Developments. Arch Pathol Lab Med 2020; 144:1344-1351. [PMID: 32810868 DOI: 10.5858/arpa.2020-0118-ra] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT.— Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are among the most common communicable diseases globally and are associated with significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. Point-of-care tests have the potential to revolutionize the prevention and control of STIs by enabling rapid diagnosis and early treatment of infections, thus interrupting transmission and preventing the sequelae of untreated infections. Currently, there are several point-of-care (POC) tests available for the diagnosis of Treponema pallidum, Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and Trichomonas vaginalis infections, although these tests differ with regard to their performance, turnaround time, and cost. OBJECTIVE.— To provide an updated review of the POC tests available and under development for the diagnosis of T pallidum, C trachomatis, N gonorrhoeae, and T vaginalis infections, to discuss the context for which these tests might be used, and to highlight future directions for test development. DATA SOURCES.— We reviewed the literature pertaining to the recent development and performance evaluations of POC tests for the diagnosis of syphilis, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomonas. CONCLUSIONS.— Recently, there has been rapid development of new POC tests for STIs. Although there are inexpensive, rapid, and accurate POC tests available for syphilis, there are few such tests available for the diagnosis of chlamydia, gonorrhea, or trichomonas, and currently none with the ability to detect antimicrobial resistance in N gonorrhoeae. Research evaluating implementation strategies for the currently available tests and the development of additional POC tests that are rapid, accurate, and affordable are urgently needed to address the rising number of STIs worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul C Adamson
- From the Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California (Adamson, Klausner)
| | | | - Jeffrey D Klausner
- From the Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California (Adamson, Klausner).,and the Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles (Klausner)
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17
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Ukachukwu FU, Rafiq A, Snyder LAS. Challenges in treating ophthalmia neonatorum. EXPERT REVIEW OF OPHTHALMOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/17469899.2021.1829475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Faith Uche Ukachukwu
- School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy, and Chemistry, Kingston University, Kingston upon Thames, UK
| | - Afshan Rafiq
- School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy, and Chemistry, Kingston University, Kingston upon Thames, UK
| | - Lori A. S. Snyder
- School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy, and Chemistry, Kingston University, Kingston upon Thames, UK
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18
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Overcoming Challenges with the Adoption of Point-of-Care Testing: From Technology Push and Clinical Needs to Value Propositions. POINT OF CARE 2020; 19:77-83. [PMID: 33364914 DOI: 10.1097/poc.0000000000000209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Major technical challenges often prevent developers from producing new point-of-care technologies that deliver the required clinical performance in the intended settings of use. But even when devices meet clinical requirements, they can fail to be adopted and successfully implemented. Adoption barriers occur when decision makers do not understand the "value proposition" of new technologies. Current discussions of value in the context of point-of-care testing focus predominantly on the intended use and performance of the device from the manufacturer's point-of-view. However, the perspective of potential adopters in determining whether new devices provide value is also important, as is the opinion of all stakeholders who will be impacted. Incorporating value concepts into decisions made across the full development-to-adoption continuum can increase the likelihood that point-of-care testing will have the desired impact on health care delivery and patient outcomes. This article discusses how various approaches to technology development impact adoption and compares the characteristics of these approaches to emerging value concepts. It also provides an overview of value initiatives and tools that are being developed to support the evaluation of value propositions. These are presented for a range of technology adoption decision contexts, with particular applicability to point-of-care testing. Expanding the focus of research to address gaps in both the creation and evaluation of value propositions is imperative in order for value concepts to positively influence the adoption of point-of-care testing.
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19
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Mensforth S, Ayinde OC, Ross J. Spontaneous clearance of genital and extragenital Neisseria gonorrhoeae: data from GToG. Sex Transm Infect 2020; 96:556-561. [PMID: 32732336 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2020-054500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Revised: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) infection can resolve without antibiotic treatment, however the literature describing the frequency of clearance at individual sites, how rapidly it occurs and potential predictive factors is limited. In this analysis of a subpopulation identified from a large multicentre UK cohort, we describe the overall rate of spontaneous clearance of infection and explore factors associated with this. METHODS Data from the Gentamicin compared with Ceftriaxone for the Treatment of Gonorrhoea randomised controlled trial consisting of 720 patients with NG were analysed. A subgroup of individuals had both a pretrial test sample and a trial enrolment sample taken. Those who had cleared NG between initial presentation and subsequent entry into the trial without antibiotic treatment were deemed to have spontaneously cleared. Sociodemographic characteristics, sexual history and sites of infection for those who spontaneously cleared infection were compared with that of those who did not. We also estimated the time interval to clearance. RESULTS Overall, the proportion who had spontaneous clearance was 20.5% (83/405). Clearance of infection occurred over a median of 10 days (IQR 7-15 days). The cohort who spontaneously cleared were similar to those who did not in terms of age, gender, sexual orientation, HIV status and previous NG infection. Chlamydia coinfection was more frequent in the 'no spontaneous clearance group' (11.1% (9/83) cf 22.0% (69/322)) (p=0.029). Dysuria was reported more often in the 'no spontaneous clearance group' (4.8% (4/83) cf 13.0% (42/322)) (p=0.035). CONCLUSION We present data from a large cohort of NG-infected individuals, of whom a significant proportion had spontaneous clearance of infection. This is consistent with previous smaller studies. If this is indicative of cure, point-of-care testing prior to treatment has the potential to reduce unnecessary exposure to antimicrobials. Further work to assess the importance of bacterial load, genotype and host immune response on spontaneous clearance of infection is required. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ISRCTN51783227.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Mensforth
- Department of Sexual Health and HIV, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Oluseyi Cyril Ayinde
- Department of Sexual Health and HIV, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Jonathan Ross
- Department of Sexual Health and HIV, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
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20
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Mohiuddin S, Gardiner R, Crofts M, Muir P, Steer J, Turner J, Wheeler H, Hollingworth W, Horner PJ. Modelling patient flows and resource use within a sexual health clinic through discrete event simulation to inform service redesign. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e037084. [PMID: 32641336 PMCID: PMC7348479 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-037084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Continuous improvement in the delivery of health services is increasingly being demanded in the UK at a time when budgets are being cut. Simulation is one approach used for understanding and assessing the likely impact of changes to the delivery of health services. However, little is known about the usefulness of simulation for analysing the delivery of sexual health services (SHSs). We propose a simulation method to model and evaluate patient flows and resource use within an SHS to inform service redesign. METHODS We developed a discrete event simulation (DES) model to identify the bottlenecks within the Unity SHS (Bristol, UK) and find possible routes for service improvement. Using the example of the introduction of an online service for sexually transmitted infection (STI) and HIV self-sampling for asymptomatic patients, the impact on patient waiting times was examined as the main outcome measure. The model included data such as patient arrival time, staff availability and duration of consultation, examination and treatment. We performed several sensitivity analyses to assess uncertainty in the model parameters. RESULTS We identified some bottlenecks under the current system, particularly in the consultation and treatment queues for male and female walk-in patients. Introducing the provision of STI and HIV self-sampling alongside existing services decreased the average waiting time (88 vs 128 min) for all patients and reduced the cost of staff time for managing each patient (£72.64 vs £88.74) compared with the current system without online-based self-sampling. CONCLUSIONS The provision of online-based STI and HIV self-sampling for asymptomatic patients could be beneficial in reducing patient waiting times and the model highlights the complexities of using this to cut costs. Attributing recognition for any improvement requires care, but DES modelling can provide valuable insights into the design of SHSs ensuing in quantifiable improvements. Extension of this method with the collection of additional data and the construction of more informed models seems worthwhile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syed Mohiuddin
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- NIHR CLAHRC West, University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - Rebecca Gardiner
- Unity Sexual Health Clinic, University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - Megan Crofts
- Unity Sexual Health Clinic, University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - Peter Muir
- South West Regional Public Health Laboratory, Public Health England, Bristol, UK
| | - Jonathan Steer
- South West Regional Public Health Laboratory, Public Health England, Bristol, UK
| | - Jonathan Turner
- South West Regional Public Health Laboratory, Public Health England, Bristol, UK
| | - Helen Wheeler
- Unity Sexual Health Clinic, University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - William Hollingworth
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- NIHR CLAHRC West, University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - Paddy J Horner
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Unity Sexual Health Clinic, University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Point-of-care (POC) tests for Neisseria gonorrhoeae (Ng) are urgently needed to control the gonorrhea epidemic, so patients can receive immediate diagnoses and treatment. While the advent of nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) has improved the accuracy of Ng identification, very few POC assays are able to provide results of such tests at the clinical visit. Additionally, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) presents a unique treatment challenge for Ng. AREAS COVERED This review notes that older POC tests have lower sensitivity for Ng, compared to the currently-available NAATs, and are not adequate for the current demand for high sensitivity. Promising newer assays, which can be used at the POC are covered. This review also includes data about clinicians' and patients' acceptability and expectations of POC tests for Ng, testing of extragenital specimens, pooling studies, as well as their impact clinically, and use in low-resource settings. EXPERT OPINION The ability to use POC tests to identify and immediately treat Ng infections at the patient encounter offers many benefits and opportunities. POC tests for Ng are currently available, but not widely used especially in low-resource settings. Further development of POC tests with AMR testing capacity is needed to help guide antimicrobial stewardship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte A Gaydos
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University , Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Johan H Melendez
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University , Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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22
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Peng L, Chen JL, Wang D. Progress and Perspectives in Point of Care Testing for Urogenital Chlamydia trachomatis Infection: A Review. Med Sci Monit 2020; 26:e920873. [PMID: 32298243 PMCID: PMC7191959 DOI: 10.12659/msm.920873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Worldwide, genital infection with Chlamydia trachomatis (C. trachomatis) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections. Most infections are asymptomatic. However, particularly in women, untreated infection with C. trachomatis can lead to complications that include pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, and tubal ectopic pregnancy. Rapid methods for early and accurate diagnosis for infection with C. trachomatis that can be performed in the clinic would allow for earlier treatment to prevent complications. Traditional laboratory-based tests for C. trachomatis infection include culture, enzyme immunoassay, direct immunofluorescence, nucleic acid hybridization, and nucleic acid amplification tests, which take time but have high diagnostic sensitivity. Novel and rapid diagnostic tests include extraordinary optical transmission (EOT), loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA), and microwave-accelerated metal-enhanced fluorescence (MAMEF). Although these new tests offer the promise of rapid screening and diagnosis, they may have lower diagnostic sensitivity. This review aims to provide an overview of traditional methods for the diagnosis of urogenital infection with C. trachomatis, the current status of POC testing for urogenital C. trachomatis infection and discusses recent progress and perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Peng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China (mainland)
| | - Jian-Lin Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China (mainland)
| | - Dao Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China (mainland)
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23
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Kerry-Barnard S, Huntington S, Fleming C, Reid F, Sadiq ST, Drennan VM, Adams E, Oakeshott P. Near patient chlamydia and gonorrhoea screening and treatment in further education/technical colleges: a cost analysis of the 'Test n Treat' feasibility trial. BMC Health Serv Res 2020; 20:316. [PMID: 32299437 PMCID: PMC7160983 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-020-5062-5] [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: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Community-based screening may be one solution to increase testing and treatment of sexually transmitted infections in sexually active teenagers, but there are few data on the practicalities and cost of running such a service. We estimate the cost of running a 'Test n Treat' service providing rapid chlamydia (CT) and gonorrhoea (NG) testing and same day on-site CT treatment in technical colleges. METHODS Process data from a 2016/17 cluster randomised feasibility trial were used to estimate total costs and service uptake. Pathway mapping was used to model different uptake scenarios. Participants, from six London colleges, provided self-taken genitourinary samples in the nearest toilet. Included in the study were 509 sexually active students (mean 85/college): median age 17.9 years, 49% male, 50% black ethnicity, with a baseline CT and NG prevalence of 6 and 0.5%, respectively. All participants received information about CT and NG infections at recruitment. When the Test n Treat team visited, participants were texted/emailed invitations to attend for confidential testing. Three colleges were randomly allocated the intervention, to host (non-incentivised) Test n Treat one and four months after baseline. All six colleges hosted follow-up Test n Treat seven months after baseline when students received a £10 incentive (to participate). RESULTS The mean non-incentivised daily uptake per college was 5 students (range 1 to 17), which cost £237 (range £1082 to £88) per student screened, and £4657 (range £21,281 to £1723) per CT infection detected, or £13,970 (range £63,842 to £5169) per NG infection detected. The mean incentivised daily uptake was 19 students which cost £91 per student screened, and £1408/CT infection or £7042/NG infection detected. If daily capacity for screening were achieved (49 students/day), costs including incentives would be £47 per person screened and £925/CT infection or £2774/NG infection detected. CONCLUSIONS Delivering non-incentivised Test n Treat in technical colleges is more expensive per person screened than CT and NG screening in clinics. Targeting areas with high infection rates, combined with high, incentivised uptake could make costs comparable. TRIAL REGISTRATION ISRCTN58038795, Assigned August 2016, registered prospectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Kerry-Barnard
- Population Health Research Institute, St George's, University of London, London, SW17 ORE, UK
| | - Susie Huntington
- Aquarius Population Health Limited, Unit 29, Tileyard Studios, Tileyard Rd, London, N7 9AH, UK.
| | - Charlotte Fleming
- Population Health Research Institute, St George's, University of London, London, SW17 ORE, UK
| | - Fiona Reid
- School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, King's College London, London, SE1 1UL, UK
| | - S Tariq Sadiq
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's, University of London, London, SW17 ORE, UK
| | - Vari M Drennan
- Centre for Health and Social Care Research, Kingston University and St George's University of London, London, SW17 ORE, UK
| | - Elisabeth Adams
- Aquarius Population Health Limited, Unit 29, Tileyard Studios, Tileyard Rd, London, N7 9AH, UK
| | - Pippa Oakeshott
- Population Health Research Institute, St George's, University of London, London, SW17 ORE, UK
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24
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Taylor-Robinson D, Horner P, Pallecaros A. Diagnosis of some genital-tract infections: part 2. Molecular tests and the new challenges. Int J STD AIDS 2020; 31:198-207. [PMID: 32009570 DOI: 10.1177/0956462419890526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Promptly and accurately diagnosing genital-tract infections is key to instituting appropriate treatment and control of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Ano-genital tract testing for STIs in the last two decades has not entirely moved away from insensitive methods but it is now at least dominated by highly sensitive molecular methods. These tests can be ordered through the internet for use at home, with self-taken specimens then returned, usually by post, to a clinic or laboratory for testing. The increasing ease of access of the public to this situation, together with increasing on-line health-seeking behaviour, has resulted in a gap between commercial and NHS management pathways for STIs. Crucially, patients who order multiplex test kits on-line for use at home, and other non-specialists, may not realize that it is worthwhile testing only for Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis, and possibly Trichomonas vaginalis, and Mycoplasma genitalium if the person is symptomatic or their current partner is infected. The detection and recommended treatment of micro-organisms which to some extent are part of the genital-tract microbiome, such as Mycoplasma hominis, Ureaplasma spp. or Gardnerella vaginalis, which do not cause symptoms in the majority of those infected, cannot be recommended. We argue that a shift from specialist-led to patient- and non-specialist-led STI management, in the presence of a clinical leadership vacuum, has increased the risk of inappropriate and unnecessary treatment which will drive macrolide, tetracycline and metronidazole antimicrobial resistance. However, in the past 5–6 years several groups have been able to show the value of on-line testing as a consequence of targeting the most important micro-organisms and using molecular tests to allow rapid and appropriately informed treatment. This should herald a brighter future, although there is still a need for leadership to expertly guide commercial and NHS sectors alike. In turn, this requires dedicated genito-urinary medicine commissioning to be maintained at a time when it appears to be most under threat.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Taylor-Robinson
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Wright-Fleming Institute, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Patrick Horner
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.,National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit (NIHR HPRU) in Evaluation of Interventions in partnership with Public Health England, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.,Unity Sexual Health, University Hospitals Bristol NHS Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - Anna Pallecaros
- Department of Genito-urinary Medicine, Princess Grace Hospital, London, UK
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25
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Bell SFE, Coffey L, Debattista J, Badman SG, Redmond AM, Whiley DM, Lemoire J, Williams OD, Howard C, Gilks CF, Dean JA. Peer-delivered point-of-care testing for Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae within an urban community setting: a cross-sectional analysis. Sex Health 2020; 17:359-367. [PMID: 32731917 DOI: 10.1071/sh19233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Background The advent of fully automated nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) technology brings new public health opportunities to provide Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) point-of-care testing (POCT) in non-traditional settings. METHODS This pilot study evaluated the integration of the CT/NG Xpert diagnostic assay into an urban peer-led community setting providing HIV and syphilis POCT. A comprehensive protocol of testing, result notification, referral and follow up, managed by peer test facilitators, was undertaken. RESULTS Over 67 weeks, there were 4523 occasions of CT/NG testing using urine, oropharyngeal and anorectal samples with 25.7% (803) of the 3123 unique participants returning for repeat testing. The prevalence of CT and NG was 9.5% and 5.4% respectively. Where CT and or NG infection was detected, 98.4% (604/614) of participants were successfully notified of detected infection and referred for treatment. Evaluation Survey responses (11.4%, 516/4523) indicated a substantial proportion of respondents (27.1%, 140/516) 'would not have tested anywhere else'. Of note, 17.8% (92/516) of participants reported no previous CT/NG test and an additional 17.8% (92/516) reported testing more than 12 months ago. A total of 95.9% (495/516) of participants 'Strongly agreed' or 'Agreed' to being satisfied with the service. CONCLUSION The project successfully demonstrated an acceptable and feasible model for a peer-delivered community-led service to provide targeted molecular CT/NG POCT. This model offers capacity to move beyond the traditional pathology and STI testing services and establish community-led models that build trust and increase testing rates for key populations of epidemiological significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara F E Bell
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Herston Campus, 288 Herston Road, Herston, Qld 4006, Australia
| | - Luke Coffey
- RAPID, Queensland Positive People, 21 Manilla Street, East Brisbane, Qld 4169, Australia
| | - Joseph Debattista
- Metro North Public Health Unit, Metro North Hospital and Health Service, Bryden Street, Windsor, Qld 4030, Australia
| | - Steven G Badman
- Kirby Institute, L6, Wallace Wurth Building, High Street, The University of New South Wales Sydney, Randwick, NSW 2032, Australia
| | - Andrew M Redmond
- RAPID, Queensland Positive People, 21 Manilla Street, East Brisbane, Qld 4169, Australia; and Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Metro North Hospital and Health Service, Butterfield St, Herston, Qld 4029, Australia
| | - David M Whiley
- Centre for Clinical Research, The University of Queensland, Building 71/918, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital Campus, Herston, Qld 4029, Australia; and Pathology Queensland, Block 7, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Herston, Qld 4029, Australia
| | - Jime Lemoire
- RAPID, Queensland Positive People, 21 Manilla Street, East Brisbane, Qld 4169, Australia
| | - Owain D Williams
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Herston Campus, 288 Herston Road, Herston, Qld 4006, Australia
| | - Chris Howard
- RAPID, Queensland Positive People, 21 Manilla Street, East Brisbane, Qld 4169, Australia
| | - Charles F Gilks
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Herston Campus, 288 Herston Road, Herston, Qld 4006, Australia
| | - Judith A Dean
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Herston Campus, 288 Herston Road, Herston, Qld 4006, Australia; and Corresponding author.
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26
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Hughes G, Fifer H. Point-of-care tests for chlamydia and gonorrhoea in Indigenous communities. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2019; 18:1054-1055. [PMID: 30303094 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(18)30486-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2018] [Accepted: 07/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Gwenda Hughes
- Blood Safety, Hepatitis, Sexually Transmitted Infections & HIV Division, National Infection Service, Public Health England, London NW9 5EQ, UK.
| | - Helen Fifer
- Blood Safety, Hepatitis, Sexually Transmitted Infections & HIV Division, National Infection Service, Public Health England, London NW9 5EQ, UK
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27
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Performance of the Atlas Genetics Rapid Test for Chlamydia trachomatis and Women's Attitudes Toward Point-Of-Care Testing. Sex Transm Dis 2019; 45:723-727. [PMID: 29771869 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000000865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study compared performance of the Atlas io polymerase chain reaction-based, point-of-care (POC) assay for Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), to Aptima Combo 2, a standard of care nucleic acid amplification assay, and evaluated patient attitudes toward POC testing. METHODS Women 14 years or older undergoing CT screening/testing were recruited from Teen Health Center and a sexually transmitted disease clinic. Participants provided self-obtained vaginal swabs for testing with the Atlas io and Aptima Combo 2, and completed questionnaires assessing attitudes toward POC testing. RESULTS Of 296 women recruited, 284 (192 from sexually transmitted disease clinic, 92 from Teen Health Center) had Aptima Combo 2 and Atlas io results available; 273 completed the questionnaire. Average age was 27.4 years (SD, 10.8 years). Sensitivity and specificity of the Atlas io test were 83.9% (26/31 specimens; 95% confidence interval [CI], 70.9-96.8%) and 98.8% (250/253 specimens; 95% CI, 97.5-100%), respectively. When specimens with discrepant results were included in the analyses, adjudicated sensitivity and specificity were 92.9% (26/28 specimens; 95% CI, 83.3 to 100%) and 98.8% (253/256 specimens; 95% CI, 97.5 to 100%), respectively.A majority (70%) of women preferred to collect vaginal self-swab if a POC test were available. Most (61%) were willing to wait up to 20 minutes, and 26% were willing to wait up to 40 minutes for results, if they could be treated before leaving clinic. CONCLUSIONS A POC polymerase chain reaction test detecting CT had high sensitivity and specificity when testing prospective, vaginal swab samples. Availability of CT results during patients' visits may decrease time to treatment.
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28
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Zienkiewicz AK, Verschueren van Rees N, Homer M, Ong JJ, Christensen H, Hill D, Looker KJ, Horner P, Hughes G, Turner KME. Agent-based modelling study of antimicrobial-resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae transmission in men who have sex with men: towards individualised diagnosis and treatment. Sex Health 2019; 16:514-522. [PMID: 31476277 DOI: 10.1071/sh18235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2018] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Background Antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) gonorrhoea is a global public health threat. Discriminatory point-of-care tests (POCT) to detect drug sensitivity are under development, enabling individualised resistance-guided therapy. METHODS An individual-based dynamic transmission model of gonorrhoea infection in MSM living in London has been developed, incorporating ciprofloxacin-sensitive and resistant strains. The time-dependent sexual contact network is captured by periodically restructuring active connections to reflect the transience of contacts. Different strategies to improve treatment selection were explored, including discriminatory POCT and selecting partner treatment based on either the index case or partner susceptibility. Outcomes included population prevalence of gonorrhoea and drug dose counts. RESULTS It is shown that using POCT to detect ciprofloxacin-sensitive infections could result in a large decrease in ceftriaxone doses (by 70% compared with the reference case in the simulations of this study). It also suggests that ceftriaxone use can be reduced with existing technologies, albeit to a lesser degree; either using index case sensitivity profiles to direct treatment of partners, or testing notified partners with strain discriminatory laboratory tests before treatment, reduced ceftriaxone use in our model (by 27% and 47% respectively). CONCLUSIONS POCT to detect ciprofloxacin-sensitive gonorrhoea are likely to dramatically reduce reliance on ceftriaxone, but requires the implementation of new technology. In the meantime, the proportion of unnecessary ceftriaxone treatment by testing partners before treatment could be reduced significantly. Alternatively, index case sensitivity profiles could be used to select effective treatments for partners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam K Zienkiewicz
- Department of Engineering Mathematics, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1UB, UK; and School of Veterinary Sciences, University of Bristol, Langford House, Langford, Bristol BS40 5DU, UK
| | - Nicolás Verschueren van Rees
- Department of Engineering Mathematics, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1UB, UK; and School of Veterinary Sciences, University of Bristol, Langford House, Langford, Bristol BS40 5DU, UK
| | - Martin Homer
- Department of Engineering Mathematics, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1UB, UK
| | - Jason J Ong
- Clinical Research and Development, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, UK; and Central Clinical School, Monash University, Clayton, Vic. 3800, Australia; and Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Oakfield House, Oakfield Grove, Bristol BS8 2BN, UK
| | - Hannah Christensen
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Oakfield House, Oakfield Grove, Bristol BS8 2BN, UK
| | - Darryl Hill
- School of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Bristol, Biomedical Sciences Building, University Walk, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK
| | - Katharine J Looker
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Oakfield House, Oakfield Grove, Bristol BS8 2BN, UK
| | - Paddy Horner
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Oakfield House, Oakfield Grove, Bristol BS8 2BN, UK
| | - Gwenda Hughes
- Instituto de Medicina Tropical, Universidade de São Paulo, Avenuenida Dr Enéas Carvalho de Aguiar, 470, CEP 05403-000, São Paulo, Brasil; and Blood Safety, Hepatitis, STI & HIV Division, National Infection Service, Public Health England, NW9 5EQ, UK
| | - Katy M E Turner
- School of Veterinary Sciences, University of Bristol, Langford House, Langford, Bristol BS40 5DU, UK; and Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Oakfield House, Oakfield Grove, Bristol BS8 2BN, UK; and Corresponding author.
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29
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Wi TEC, Ndowa FJ, Ferreyra C, Kelly‐Cirino C, Taylor MM, Toskin I, Kiarie J, Santesso N, Unemo M. Diagnosing sexually transmitted infections in resource-constrained settings: challenges and ways forward. J Int AIDS Soc 2019; 22 Suppl 6:e25343. [PMID: 31468679 PMCID: PMC6715950 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) remain prevalent and are increasing in several populations. Appropriate STI diagnosis is crucial to prevent the transmission and sequelae of untreated infection. We reviewed the diagnostic accuracy of syndromic case management and existing point-of-care tests (POCTs), including those in the pipeline, to diagnose STIs in resource-constrained settings. METHODS We prioritized updating the systematic review and meta-analysis of the diagnostic accuracy of vaginal discharge from 2001 to 2015 to include studies until 2018. We calculated the absolute effects of different vaginal flowcharts and the diagnostic performance of POCTs on important outcomes. We searched the peer-reviewed literature for previously conducted systematic reviews and articles from 1990 to 2018 on the diagnostic accuracy of syndromic management of vaginal and urethral discharge, genital ulcer and anorectal infections. We conducted literature reviews from 2000 to 2018 on the existing POCTs and those in the pipeline. RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS The diagnostic accuracy of urethral discharge and genital ulcer disease syndromes is relatively adequate. Asymptomatic Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) infections limit the use of vaginal discharge and anorectal syndromes. The pooled diagnostic accuracy of vaginal syndromic case management for CT/NG is low, resulting in high numbers of overtreatment and missed treatment. The absolute effect of POCTs was reduced overtreatment and missed treatment. Findings of the reviews on syndromic case management underscored the need for low-cost and accurate POCTs for the identification, first, of CT/NG, and, second, of Mycoplasma genitalium (MG) and Trichomonas vaginalis (TV) and NG and MG resistance/susceptibility testing. Near-patient POCT molecular assays for CT/NG/TV are commercially available. The prices of these POCTs remain the barrier for uptake in resource-constrained settings. This is driving the development of lower cost solutions. CONCLUSIONS The WHO syndromic case management guidelines should be updated to raise the quality of STI management through the integration of laboratory tests. STI screening strategies are needed to address asymptomatic STIs. POCTs that are accurate, rapid, simple and affordable are urgently needed in resource-constrained settings to support the uptake of aetiological diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teodora EC Wi
- Department of Reproductive Health and ResearchWorld Health OrganizationGenevaSwitzerland
| | | | | | | | - Melanie M Taylor
- Department of Reproductive Health and ResearchWorld Health OrganizationGenevaSwitzerland
| | - Igor Toskin
- Department of Reproductive Health and ResearchWorld Health OrganizationGenevaSwitzerland
| | - James Kiarie
- Department of Reproductive Health and ResearchWorld Health OrganizationGenevaSwitzerland
| | - Nancy Santesso
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and BiostatisticsMcMaster UniversityOntarioCanada
| | - Magnus Unemo
- World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Gonorrhoea and other STIsDepartment of Laboratory MedicineFaculty of Medicine and HealthÖrebro UniversityÖrebroSweden
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30
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Harding-Esch EM, Fuller SS, Chow SLC, Nori AV, Harrison MA, Parker M, Piepenburg O, Forrest MS, Brooks DG, Patel R, Hay PE, Fearnley N, Pond MJ, Dunbar JK, Butcher PD, Planche T, Lowndes CM, Sadiq ST. Diagnostic accuracy of a prototype rapid chlamydia and gonorrhoea recombinase polymerase amplification assay: a multicentre cross-sectional preclinical evaluation. Clin Microbiol Infect 2019; 25:380.e1-380.e7. [PMID: 29906594 PMCID: PMC6420679 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2018.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2018] [Revised: 05/31/2018] [Accepted: 06/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Rapid and accurate sexually transmitted infection diagnosis can reduce onward transmission and improve treatment efficacy. We evaluated the accuracy of a 15-minute run-time recombinase polymerase amplification-based prototype point-of-care test (TwistDx) for Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG). METHODS Prospective, multicentre study of symptomatic and asymptomatic patients attending three English sexual health clinics. Research samples provided were additional self-collected vulvovaginal swab (SCVS) (female participants) and first-catch urine (FCU) aliquot (female and male participants). Samples were processed blind to the comparator (routine clinic CT/NG nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT)) results. Discrepancies were resolved using Cepheid CT/NG GeneXpert. RESULTS Both recombinase polymerase amplification and routine clinic NAAT results were available for 392 male and 395 female participants. CT positivity was 8.9% (35/392) (male FCU), 7.3% (29/395) (female FCU) and 7.1% (28/395) (SCVS). Corresponding NG positivity was 3.1% (12/392), 0.8% (3/395) and 0.8% (3/395). Specificity and positive predictive values were 100% for all sample types and both organisms, except male CT FCU (99.7% specificity (95% confidence interval (CI) 98.4-100.0; 356/357), 97.1% positive predictive value (95% CI 84.7-99.9; 33/34)). For CT, sensitivity was ≥94.3% for FCU and SCVS. CT sensitivity for female FCU was higher (100%; 95% CI, 88.1-100; 29/29) than for SCVS (96.4%; 95% CI, 81.7-99.9; 27/28). NG sensitivity and negative predictive values were 100% in FCU (male and female). CONCLUSIONS This prototype test has excellent performance characteristics, comparable to currently used NAATs, and fulfils several World Health Organization ASSURED criteria. Its rapidity without loss of performance suggests that once further developed and commercialized, this test could positively affect clinical practice and public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- E M Harding-Esch
- Applied Diagnostic Research & Evaluation Unit (ADREU), Institute for Infection & Immunity, St George's University of London, London, UK; HIV/STI Department, National Infection Service, Public Health England, London, UK
| | - S S Fuller
- Applied Diagnostic Research & Evaluation Unit (ADREU), Institute for Infection & Immunity, St George's University of London, London, UK; HIV/STI Department, National Infection Service, Public Health England, London, UK
| | - S-L C Chow
- Applied Diagnostic Research & Evaluation Unit (ADREU), Institute for Infection & Immunity, St George's University of London, London, UK
| | - A V Nori
- Applied Diagnostic Research & Evaluation Unit (ADREU), Institute for Infection & Immunity, St George's University of London, London, UK; HIV/STI Department, National Infection Service, Public Health England, London, UK; St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - M A Harrison
- Applied Diagnostic Research & Evaluation Unit (ADREU), Institute for Infection & Immunity, St George's University of London, London, UK
| | | | | | | | | | - R Patel
- Department of Sexual Health, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - P E Hay
- St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - N Fearnley
- Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Bradford, UK
| | - M J Pond
- Applied Diagnostic Research & Evaluation Unit (ADREU), Institute for Infection & Immunity, St George's University of London, London, UK
| | - J K Dunbar
- HIV/STI Department, National Infection Service, Public Health England, London, UK
| | - P D Butcher
- Applied Diagnostic Research & Evaluation Unit (ADREU), Institute for Infection & Immunity, St George's University of London, London, UK
| | - T Planche
- Applied Diagnostic Research & Evaluation Unit (ADREU), Institute for Infection & Immunity, St George's University of London, London, UK; St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - C M Lowndes
- Applied Diagnostic Research & Evaluation Unit (ADREU), Institute for Infection & Immunity, St George's University of London, London, UK; HIV/STI Department, National Infection Service, Public Health England, London, UK
| | - S T Sadiq
- Applied Diagnostic Research & Evaluation Unit (ADREU), Institute for Infection & Immunity, St George's University of London, London, UK; HIV/STI Department, National Infection Service, Public Health England, London, UK; St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
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31
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Davies SC, Shapiro J, Comninos NB, Templeton DJ. Lymphogranuloma venereum presenting as penile ulcer in two HIV-negative gay men. Int J STD AIDS 2019; 30:515-518. [PMID: 30714874 DOI: 10.1177/0956462418821579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
An epidemic of lymphogranuloma venereum among men who have sex with men (MSM) has persisted in Australia for over a decade and virtually all diagnoses are made from rectal samples. We discuss two cases of human immunodeficiency virus-negative MSM who presented with a penile ulcer. The diagnosis can be made by ensuring a swab of any such ulcer is tested for Chlamydia trachomatis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen C Davies
- 1 Northern Sydney Sexual Health Service, Northern Sydney Local Health District, St Leonards, Australia.,2 Northern Clinical School, The University of Sydney, St Leonards, Australia
| | - Jane Shapiro
- 2 Northern Clinical School, The University of Sydney, St Leonards, Australia
| | | | - David J Templeton
- 3 RPA Sexual Health, Sydney Local Health District, Camperdown, Australia.,4 Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,5 The Kirby Institute, University of NSW, Kensington, Australia
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Model-based economic evaluations of diagnostic point of care tests were rarely fit for purpose. J Clin Epidemiol 2018; 109:1-11. [PMID: 30423377 DOI: 10.1016/j.jclinepi.2018.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Revised: 10/09/2018] [Accepted: 11/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Linked evidence models are recommended to predict health benefits and cost-effectiveness of diagnostic tests. We considered how published models accounted for changes in patient pathways that occur with point of care tests (POCTs) and their impact on patient health and costs. STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING Model-based evaluations of diagnostic POCTs published from 2004 to 2017 were identified from searching six databases. For each model, we assessed the outcomes considered, and whether reduced time to diagnosis and increased access to testing affected patient health and costs. RESULTS Seventy-four model-based evaluations were included: 95% incorporated evidence on test accuracy, but 34% only assessed intermediate outcomes such as rates of correct diagnosis. Of 54 models where POCTs reduced testing time, 39% addressed the economic and 37% addressed the health benefits of faster diagnosis. No model considered differences in access to tests. CONCLUSION Many models fail to capture the effects of POCTs in increasing access, advancing speed of diagnosis and treatment, and reducing anxiety and the associated costs. Many only consider the impact of testing from changes in accuracy. Ensuring models incorporate changes in patient pathways from faster and more accessible testing will lead to economic evaluations that better reflect the impact of POCTs.
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Oakeshott P, Kerry-Barnard S, Fleming C, Phillips R, Drennan VM, Adams EJ, Majewska W, Harding-Esch EM, Cousins EC, Planche T, Green A, Bartholomew RI, Sadiq ST, Reid F. 'Test n Treat' (TnT): a cluster randomized feasibility trial of on-site rapid Chlamydia trachomatis tests and treatment in ethnically diverse, sexually active teenagers attending technical colleges. Clin Microbiol Infect 2018; 25:865-871. [PMID: 30391581 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2018.10.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2018] [Revised: 10/24/2018] [Accepted: 10/25/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We conducted a cluster-randomized feasibility trial of 90-minute Chlamydia trachomatis tests and same day on-site treatment ('Test n Treat/TnT') in six technical colleges in London, England, to assess TnT uptake rates; follow-up rates; prevalence of C. trachomatis at baseline and 7 months; time to treatment; acceptability of TnT. METHODS Participants completed questionnaires and provided genitourinary samples at baseline and 7 months. Participants were informed that baseline samples would not be tested for 7 months and were advised to get screened independently. Colleges were randomly allocated 1:1 to intervention (TnT) or control (no TnT). One month and 4 months post recruitment, participants at intervention colleges were texted invitations for on-site free C. trachomatis tests. A purposive sample of students who did/did not attend for screening were interviewed (n = 26). RESULTS Five hundred and nine sexually active students were recruited: median age 17.9 years, 47% male, 50% black ethnicity, 55% reporting two or more sexual partners in the previous year. TnT uptake was 13% (33/259; 95% CI 8.9-17.4%) at 1 month and 10% (26/259; 6.7-14.4%) at 4 months with overall C. trachomatis positivity 5.1% (3/59; 1.1-14.2%). Follow-up at 7 months was 62% (317/509) for questionnaires and 52% (264/509) for samples. C. trachomatis prevalence was 6.2% (31/503) at baseline and 6.1% (16/264) at 7 months. Median time from test to treatment was 15 h. Interviews suggested low test uptake was associated with not feeling at risk, perceptions of stigma, and little knowledge of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). CONCLUSIONS Despite high C. trachomatis rates at baseline and follow-up, uptake of testing was low. Like many countries, England urgently needs better sex education, including making STI testing routine/normal. Trial registration ISRCTN58038795.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Oakeshott
- Population Health Research Institute, St George's, University of London, London UK.
| | - S Kerry-Barnard
- Population Health Research Institute, St George's, University of London, London UK
| | - C Fleming
- Population Health Research Institute, St George's, University of London, London UK
| | - R Phillips
- School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - V M Drennan
- Centre for Health & Social Care Research, Kingston University & St George's, University of London, London, UK
| | - E J Adams
- Aquarius Population Health Limited, London, UK
| | | | - E M Harding-Esch
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's, University of London, London, UK; Public Health England, London, UK
| | - E C Cousins
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's, University of London, London, UK
| | - T Planche
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's, University of London, London, UK
| | - A Green
- Population Health Research Institute, St George's, University of London, London UK
| | - R I Bartholomew
- Population Health Research Institute, St George's, University of London, London UK; Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's, University of London, London, UK
| | - S T Sadiq
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's, University of London, London, UK
| | - F Reid
- School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
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Huntington SE, Burns RM, Harding-Esch E, Harvey MJ, Hill-Tout R, Fuller SS, Adams EJ, Sadiq ST. Modelling-based evaluation of the costs, benefits and cost-effectiveness of multipathogen point-of-care tests for sexually transmitted infections in symptomatic genitourinary medicine clinic attendees. BMJ Open 2018; 8:e020394. [PMID: 30201794 PMCID: PMC6144481 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2017-020394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To quantify the costs, benefits and cost-effectiveness of three multipathogen point-of-care (POC) testing strategies for detecting common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) compared with standard laboratory testing. DESIGN Modelling study. SETTING Genitourinary medicine (GUM) services in England. POPULATION A hypothetical cohort of 965 988 people, representing the annual number attending GUM services symptomatic of lower genitourinary tract infection. INTERVENTIONS The decision tree model considered costs and reimbursement to GUM services associated with diagnosing and managing STIs. Three strategies using hypothetical point-of-care tests (POCTs) were compared with standard care (SC) using laboratory-based testing. The strategies were: A) dual POCT for Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG); B) triplex POCT for CT-NG and Mycoplasma genitalium (MG); C) quadruplex POCT for CT-NG-MG and Trichomonas vaginalis (TV). Data came from published literature and unpublished estimates. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES Primary outcomes were total costs and benefits (quality-adjusted life years (QALYs)) for each strategy (2016 GB, £) and associated incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) between each of the POC strategies and SC. Secondary outcomes were inappropriate treatment of STIs, onward STI transmission, pelvic inflammatory disease in women, time to cure and total attendances. RESULTS In the base-case analysis, POC strategy C, a quadruplex POCT, was the most cost-effective relative to the other strategies, with an ICER of £36 585 per QALY gained compared with SC when using microcosting, and cost-savings of £26 451 382 when using tariff costing. POC strategy C also generated the most benefits, with 240 467 fewer clinic attendances, 808 fewer onward STI transmissions and 235 135 averted inappropriate treatments compared with SC. CONCLUSIONS Many benefits can be achieved by using multipathogen POCTs to improve STI diagnosis and management. Further evidence is needed on the underlying prevalence of STIs and SC delivery in the UK to reduce uncertainty in economic analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Richéal M Burns
- Aquarius Population Health, 58a Highgate High Street, London, UK
- Health Economics and Policy Analysis Centre (HEPAC), NUI Galway, Ireland
| | - Emma Harding-Esch
- HIV/STI Department, National Infection Service, Public Health England, 61 Colindale Avenue, London, UK
- St George's Institute for Infection and Immunity, Applied Diagnostic Research and Evaluation Unit, University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London, UK
| | - Michael J Harvey
- Aquarius Population Health, 58a Highgate High Street, London, UK
| | - Rachel Hill-Tout
- St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Blackshaw Road, Tooting, London, UK
| | - Sebastian S Fuller
- St George's Institute for Infection and Immunity, Applied Diagnostic Research and Evaluation Unit, University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London, UK
| | | | - S Tariq Sadiq
- HIV/STI Department, National Infection Service, Public Health England, 61 Colindale Avenue, London, UK
- St George's Institute for Infection and Immunity, Applied Diagnostic Research and Evaluation Unit, University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London, UK
- St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Blackshaw Road, Tooting, London, UK
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Zwart JM, Mangen MJJ, Bartelsman M, van Rooijen MS, de Vries HJC, Xiridou M. Microscopic examination of Gram-stained smears for anogenital gonorrhoea in men who have sex with men is cost-effective: evidence from a modelling study. Sex Transm Infect 2018; 95:13-20. [PMID: 30196273 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2018-053578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2018] [Revised: 07/10/2018] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the cost-effectiveness of three testing strategies with or without light microscopic Gram-stained smear (GSS) evaluation for the detection of anogenital gonorrhoea among men who have sex with men (MSM) at the Amsterdam STI clinic using a healthcare payer perspective. METHODS Three testing strategies for MSM were compared: (1) GSS in symptomatic MSM only (currently practised strategy), (2) no GSS and (3) GSS in symptomatic and asymptomatic MSM. The three testing protocols include testing with nucleic acid amplification test to verify the GSS results in (1) and (3), or as the only test in (2). A transmission model was employed to calculate the influence of the testing strategies on the prevalence of anogenital gonorrhoea over 10 years. An economic model combined cost data on medical consultations, tests and treatment and utility data to estimate the number of epididymitis cases and quality-adjusted life years (QALY) associated with gonorrhoea. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) for the testing scenarios were estimated. Uncertainty and sensitivity analyses were performed. RESULTS No GSS testing compared with GSS in symptomatic MSM only (current strategy) resulted in nine extra epididymitis cases (95% uncertainty interval (UI): 2-22), 72 QALYs lost (95% UI: 59-187) and €7300 additional costs (95% UI: -€185 000 (i.e.cost-saving) to €407 000) over 10 years. GSS testing in both symptomatic and asymptomatic MSM compared with GSS in symptomatic MSM only resulted in one prevented epididymitis case (95% UI: 0-2), 1.1 QALY gained (95% UI: 0.1-3.3), €148 000 additional costs (95% UI: €86 000 to-€217 000) and an ICER of €177 000 (95% UI: €67 000-to €705 000) per QALY gained over 10 years. The results were robust in sensitivity analyses. CONCLUSIONS GSS for symptomatic MSM only is cost-effective compared with no GSS for MSM and with GSS for both symptomatic and asymptomatic MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jolijn M Zwart
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, The Netherlands.,ChipSoft, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marie-Josee J Mangen
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Menne Bartelsman
- STI Outpatient Clinic, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Martijn S van Rooijen
- STI Outpatient Clinic, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Henry J C de Vries
- STI Outpatient Clinic, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Dermatology, Academic Medical Center (AMC), University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Academic Medical Center (AMC), Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute (AI&II), University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maria Xiridou
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, The Netherlands
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Rompalo AM, Castleberry N, Widdice L, Schulkin J, Gaydos CA. Patterns of point-of-care test use among obstetricians and gynaecologists in the US. Sex Health 2018; 15:318-324. [PMID: 29914611 PMCID: PMC6450764 DOI: 10.1071/sh17180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2017] [Accepted: 01/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Background Point-of-care tests (POCTs) for reproductive health conditions have existed for decades. Newer POCTs for syphilis, HIV and trichomonas are currently available and easy to use. We surveyed practicing obstetricians and gynaecologists to determine current POCT use and perceived obstacles to use. METHODS Between June and August 2016, 1000 members of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists were randomly selected and invited to complete a Qualtrics (222 West river Park Drive, Provo, Utah 84604, USA) survey; 600 of these were members of the Collaborative Ambulatory Research Network. Respondents who completed at least 60% of the survey were included in the analysis. RESULTS Of the 1000 selected members, 749 had valid emails and 288 (38%) of these participated in and completed the survey. Of the respondents, 70% were male with a mean of 18 years in practice. Detection of sexually transmissible infections (STIs) once or twice a week was reported by 30%, whereas 45% reported detecting STIs once or twice a month. POCTs used included pregnancy tests (83%), urine dipstick (83%), wet mount tests (79%) and the vagina pH test (54.8%). Few used Gram stain (5%) and stat rapid plasma regain tests (4%). Relatively newer US Food and Drug Administration-approved POCTs were used less frequently, with 25% of respondents reporting using the Affirm VPIII (Becton, Dickinson and Company, 1 Becton Drive, Franklin Lakes, NJ 07471, USA) test use and only 10% using a rapid HIV test. The most common perceived barriers to testing were the amount of reimbursement received for performing the test (61.9%) and the payment coverage from the patient (61.3%). CONCLUSIONS US obstetricians and gynaecologists rely on laboratory test results and traditional POCTs to diagnosis STIs. Future development and marketing of POCTs should consider not only ease and time of test performance, but also the cost of the tests to the practice and the patient, as well as reimbursement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne M Rompalo
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkns Medical Institutions, 5200 Eastern Avenue, Mason F. Lord Center Tower, 3rd floor Infectious Diseases Suite, Baltimore, MD, 21223, USA
| | - Neko Castleberry
- The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, 409 12th St SW, Washington, DC, 20024, USA
| | - Lea Widdice
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Jay Schulkin
- The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, 409 12th St SW, Washington, DC, 20024, USA
| | - Charlotte A Gaydos
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkns Medical Institutions, 5200 Eastern Avenue, Mason F. Lord Center Tower, 3rd floor Infectious Diseases Suite, Baltimore, MD, 21223, USA
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Kerry-Barnard S, Fleming C, Reid F, Phillips R, Drennan VM, Adams EJ, Majewska W, Balendra A, Harding-Esch E, Cousins E, Tariq Sadiq S, Oakeshott P. 'Test n Treat (TnT)'- Rapid testing and same-day, on-site treatment to reduce rates of chlamydia in sexually active further education college students: study protocol for a cluster randomised feasibility trial. Trials 2018; 19:311. [PMID: 29871673 PMCID: PMC5989383 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-018-2674-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2017] [Accepted: 05/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexually active young people attending London further education (FE) colleges have high rates of chlamydia, but screening rates are low. We will conduct a cluster randomised feasibility trial of frequent, rapid, on-site chlamydia testing and same-day treatment (Test and Treat (TnT)) in six FE colleges (with parallel qualitative and economic assessments) to assess the feasibility of conducting a future trial to investigate if TnT reduces chlamydia rates. METHODS We will recruit 80 sexually active students aged 16-24 years from public areas at each of six colleges. All participants (total n = 480) will be asked to provide samples (urine for males, self-taken vaginal swabs for females) and complete questionnaires on sexual lifestyle and healthcare use at baseline and after 7 months. Participants will be informed that baseline samples will not be tested for 7 months and be advised to get screened separately. Colleges will be randomly allocated to the intervention (TnT) or the control group (no TnT). One and 4 months after recruitment, participants at each intervention college (n = 3) will be texted and invited for on-site chlamydia tests using the 90-min Cepheid GeneXpert system. Students with positive results will be asked to see a visiting nurse health adviser for same-day treatment and partner notification, (backed by genitourinary medicine follow-up). Participants in control colleges (n = 3) will receive 'thank you' texts 1 and 4 months after recruitment. Seven months after recruitment, participants from both groups will be invited to complete questionnaires and provide samples for TnT. All samples will be tested, and same-day treatment offered to students with positive results. Acceptability of TnT will be assessed by qualitative interviews of purposively sampled students (n = 30) and college staff (n = 12). We will collect data on costs of TnT and usual healthcare. DISCUSSION Findings will provide key values to inform feasibility, sample size and timescales of a future definitive trial of TnT in FE colleges, including: Recruitment rates TnT uptake rates Follow-up rates Prevalence of chlamydia in participants at baseline and 7 months Acceptability of TnT to students and college staff Estimate of the cost per person screened/treated in TnT versus usual care TRIAL REGISTRATION: International Standard Randomised Controlled Trials Registry, ID: ISRCTN58038795 , Registered on 31 August 2016.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Kerry-Barnard
- Population Health Research Institute, St George’s, University of London, London, SW17ORE UK
| | - Charlotte Fleming
- Population Health Research Institute, St George’s, University of London, London, SW17ORE UK
| | - Fiona Reid
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health Sciences, King’s College London, 4th Floor, Addison House, Guy’s Campus, London, SE1 1UL UK
| | - Rachel Phillips
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health Sciences, King’s College London, 4th Floor, Addison House, Guy’s Campus, London, SE1 1UL UK
| | - Vari M. Drennan
- Centre for Health and Social Care Research, Kingston University and St George’s University of London, London, SW17ORE UK
| | - Elisabeth J. Adams
- Aquarius Population Health Limited, 58a Highgate High Street, London, N6 5HX UK
| | - Wendy Majewska
- WEM Consultancy Ltd., 96 Tantallon Road, London, SW12 8DH UK
| | - Anjella Balendra
- Population Health Research Institute, St George’s, University of London, London, SW17ORE UK
| | - Emma Harding-Esch
- Infection and Immunity, St George’s, University of London, London, SW17ORE UK
| | - Emma Cousins
- Infection and Immunity, St George’s, University of London, London, SW17ORE UK
| | - S. Tariq Sadiq
- Infection and Immunity, St George’s, University of London, London, SW17ORE UK
| | - Pippa Oakeshott
- Population Health Research Institute, St George’s, University of London, London, SW17ORE UK
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Phillips R, Oakeshott P, Kerry-Barnard S, Reid F. 'Test n Treat (TnT)': a cluster-randomised feasibility trial of frequent, rapid-testing and same-day, on-site treatment to reduce rates of chlamydia in high-risk further education college students: statistical analysis plan. Trials 2018; 19:312. [PMID: 29871668 PMCID: PMC5989377 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-018-2675-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2017] [Accepted: 05/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are high rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in ethnically diverse, sexually active students aged 16-24 years attending London further education (FE) colleges. However, uptake of chlamydia screening remains low. The TnT study aims to assess the feasibility of conducting a future trial in FE colleges to investigate if frequent, rapid, on-site testing and treatment (TnT) reduces chlamydia rates. This article presents the statistical analysis plan for the main study publication as approved and signed off by the Trial Management Group prior to the first data extraction for the final report. METHODS/DESIGN TnT is a cluster-randomised feasibility trial conducted over 7 months with parallel qualitative and economic assessments. Colleges will be randomly allocated into the intervention (TnT) or the control group (no TnT). Six FE colleges in London will be included. At each college for 2 days, 80 consecutive sexually active students aged 16-24 years (total 480 students across all six colleges) will be recruited from public areas and asked to provide baseline samples. One and 4 months after recruitment intervention colleges will be visited on two consecutive days by the TnT team where participating students will be texted and invited to come for same-day, on-site, rapid chlamydia testing and, if positive, treatment. Participants in the control colleges will receive 'thank you' texts 1 and 4 months after recruitment. Seven months after recruitment, participants from both groups will be invited to complete questionnaires and provide samples for TnT. All samples will be tested, and same-day treatment offered to participants with positive results. Key feasibility outcomes include: recruitment rates, testing and treatment uptake rates (at 1 and 4 months) and follow-up rates (at 7 months). TRIAL REGISTRATION ISRCTN 58038795 . Registered on 31 August 2016.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Phillips
- School of Population Health & Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Pippa Oakeshott
- Population Health Research Institute St George’s, University of London, London, UK
| | - Sarah Kerry-Barnard
- Population Health Research Institute St George’s, University of London, London, UK
| | - Fiona Reid
- School of Population Health & Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King’s College London, London, UK
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Kelly H, Coltart CEM, Pant Pai N, Klausner JD, Unemo M, Toskin I, Peeling RW. Systematic reviews of point-of-care tests for the diagnosis of urogenital Chlamydia trachomatis infections. Sex Transm Infect 2018; 93:S22-S30. [PMID: 29223960 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2016-053067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2017] [Revised: 05/29/2017] [Accepted: 06/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND WHO estimates that 131 million new cases of urogenital Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) infections occur globally every year. Most infections are asymptomatic. Untreated infection in women can lead to severe complications. Screening and treatment of at-risk populations is a priority for prevention and control. OBJECTIVES To summarise systematic reviews of the performance characteristics of commercially available point-of-care tests (POCT) for screening and diagnosis of urogenital CT infection. METHODS Two separate systematic reviews covering the periods 2004-2013 and 2010-2015 were conducted on rapid CT POCTs. Studies were included if tests were evaluated against a valid reference standard. RESULTS In the first review, 635 articles were identified, of which 11 were included. Nine studies evaluated the performance of eight antigen detection rapid POCTs on 10 280 patients and two studies evaluated a near-patient nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) on 3518 patients. Pooled sensitivity of antigen detection tests was 53%, 37% and 63% for cervical swabs, vaginal swabs and male urine, and specificity was 99%, 97% and 98%, respectively. The pooled sensitivity and specificity of the near-patient NAAT for all specimen types were >98% and 99.4%, respectively. The second review identified two additional studies on four antigen detection POCTs with sensitivities and specificities of 22.7%-37.7% and 99.4%-100%, respectively. A new two-step 15 min rapid POCT using fluorescent nanoparticles showed performance comparable to that of near-patient NAATs. CONCLUSIONS The systematic reviews showed that antigen detection POCTs for CT, although easy to use, lacked sufficient sensitivity to be recommended as a screening test. A near-patient NAAT shows acceptable performance as a screening or diagnostic test but requires electricity, takes 90 min and is costly. More affordable POCTs are in development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen Kelly
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Cordelia E M Coltart
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Nitika Pant Pai
- Department of Medicine, Division of Clinical Epidemiology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jeffrey D Klausner
- Department of Global Health, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Magnus Unemo
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Gonorrhoea and other STIs, Örebro University Hospital, Orebro, Sweden
| | - Igor Toskin
- Department of Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Rosanna W Peeling
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Tenover FC. The role for rapid molecular diagnostic tests for infectious diseases in precision medicine. EXPERT REVIEW OF PRECISION MEDICINE AND DRUG DEVELOPMENT 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/23808993.2018.1425611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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A 30-Min Nucleic Acid Amplification Point-of-Care Test for Genital Chlamydia trachomatis Infection in Women: A Prospective, Multi-center Study of Diagnostic Accuracy. EBioMedicine 2018; 28:120-127. [PMID: 29396306 PMCID: PMC5897918 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2017.12.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2017] [Revised: 12/20/2017] [Accepted: 12/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Rapid Point-Of-Care Tests for Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) may reduce onward transmission and reproductive sexual health (RSH) sequelae by reducing turnaround times between diagnosis and treatment. The io® single module system (Atlas Genetics Ltd.) runs clinical samples through a nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT)-based CT cartridge, delivering results in 30 min. Methods Prospective diagnostic accuracy study of the io® CT-assay in four UK Genito-Urinary Medicine (GUM)/RSH clinics on additional-to-routine self-collected vulvovaginal swabs. Samples were tested “fresh” within 10 days of collection, or “frozen” at − 80 °C for later testing. Participant characteristics were collected to assess risk factors associated with CT infection. Results CT prevalence was 7.2% (51/709) overall. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values of the io® CT assay were, respectively, 96.1% (95% Confidence Interval (CI): 86.5–99.5), 97.7% (95%CI: 96.3–98.7), 76.6% (95%CI: 64.3–86.2) and 99.7% (95%CI: 98.9–100). The only risk factor associated with CT infection was being a sexual contact of an individual with CT. Conclusions The io® CT-assay is a 30-min, fully automated, high-performing NAAT currently CE-marked for CT diagnosis in women, making it a highly promising diagnostic to enable specific treatment, initiation of partner notification and appropriately intensive health promotion at the point of care. The io® CT assay's sensitivity is comparable to that of laboratory-based assays commonly used for Chlamydia detection. The specificity as shown is this study is at the lower end of the range reported for laboratory-based assays. The resulting positive predictive value, in this population, indicates that a targeted testing approach may be optimal.
Until now, there have been no ≤ 30-min point-of-care test (POCT) nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) on the market for detecting Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), despite cost-effectiveness analyses demonstrating they may improve Genito-Urinary Medicine (GUM)/Reproductive and Sexual Health (RSH) clinical care pathway efficiencies and patient outcomes. Our evaluation of the 30-min Atlas Genetics io® CT NAAT POCT, on vaginal swabs from women attending four GUM/RSH clinics in England, shows that the test's sensitivity (accurately detecting CT-positive infections) is similar to that of laboratory-based NAATs, and its specificity (accurately detecting CT-negative infections) is at the lower end of the laboratory-based NAAT range.
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Whitlock GG, Gibbons DC, Longford N, Harvey MJ, McOwan A, Adams EJ. Rapid testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections improve patient care and yield public health benefits. Int J STD AIDS 2017; 29:474-482. [PMID: 29059032 PMCID: PMC5844454 DOI: 10.1177/0956462417736431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
A service evaluation of Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) testing and result notification in patients attending a rapid testing service (Dean Street Express [DSE]) compared with those attending an existing 'standard' sexual health clinic (56 Dean Street [56DS]), and modelling the impact of the new service from 1 June 2014 to 31 May 2015. PRIMARY OUTCOME time from patients' sample collection to notification of test results at DSE compared with 56DS. Secondary outcomes estimated using a model: number of transmissions prevented and the number of new partner visits avoided and associated cost savings achieved due to rapid testing at DSE. In 2014/15, there were a total of 81,352 visits for CT/NG testing across 56DS (21,086) and DSE (60,266). Rapid testing resulted in a reduced mean time to notification of 8.68 days: 8.95 days for 56DS (95% CI 8.91-8.99) compared to 0.27 days for DSE (95% CI 0.26-0.28). Our model estimates that rapid testing at DSE would lead to 196 CT and/or NG transmissions prevented (2.5-97.5% centile range = 6-956) and lead to annual savings attributable to reduced numbers of partner attendances of £124,283 (2.5-97.5% centile range = £4260-590,331). DSE, a rapid testing service for asymptomatic infections, delivers faster time to result notification for CT and/or NG which enables faster treatment, reduces infectious periods and leads to fewer transmissions, partner attendances and clinic costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary G Whitlock
- 1 GUM/HIV, Chelsea and Westminster NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Daniel C Gibbons
- 2 Aquarius Population Health Limited, London, UK.,3 Department of Primary Care and Public Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Nick Longford
- 4 Division of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | - Alan McOwan
- 1 GUM/HIV, Chelsea and Westminster NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Elisabeth J Adams
- 2 Aquarius Population Health Limited, London, UK.,5 School of Social and Community Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
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43
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Mensforth S, Thorley N, Radcliffe K. Auditing the use and assessing the clinical utility of microscopy as a point-of-care test for Neisseria gonorrhoeae in a Sexual Health clinic. Int J STD AIDS 2017; 29:157-163. [PMID: 28705094 DOI: 10.1177/0956462417721062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
We assessed whether urethral microscopy was performed as per clinic protocol for male clinic attendees reporting contact with Neisseria gonorrhoeae (GC), urethral symptoms or given a diagnosis of epididymo-orchitis (EO) over a 12-month period (9732 patients). Prevalence of gonorrhoea in the contacts, urethral symptoms and EO groups was 50, 12.7 and 1.6%, respectively. Microscopy was performed reliably for contacts (96%), those with discharge/dysuria with evidence of urethritis on examination (98%), but not those with EO (43%). We explored the clinical utility of microscopy as a point-of-care test for identifying urethral GC in each subgroup, using the APTIMA Combo 2 CT/GC nucleic acid amplification test as the comparator (1710 patients). Sensitivity of microscopy for each subgroup was good; there was no statistical difference between subgroup sensitivity using Fisher's exact test. Microscopy is valuable to ensure prompt diagnosis and contact tracing. All GC contacts were treated 'epidemiologically'; however, half of GC contacts did not have GC. Microscopy identified the majority of GC cases, including amongst contacts (71% of heterosexual contacts, 66% of contacts reporting sex with men). We propose that epidemiological treatment for GC contacts should be reconsidered on the grounds of antibiotic stewardship, favouring use of microscopy to guide treatment decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Mensforth
- Department of Sexual Health, Whittall Street Clinic, University Hospitals Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Nicola Thorley
- Department of Sexual Health, Whittall Street Clinic, University Hospitals Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Keith Radcliffe
- Department of Sexual Health, Whittall Street Clinic, University Hospitals Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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Sadiq ST, Mazzaferri F, Unemo M. Rapid accurate point-of-care tests combining diagnostics and antimicrobial resistance prediction for Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Mycoplasma genitalium. Sex Transm Infect 2017; 93:S65-S68. [PMID: 28684610 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2016-053072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2016] [Revised: 03/21/2017] [Accepted: 04/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
In addition to inadequate access to early diagnosis and treatment with antimicrobial agents for patients and sexual contacts, management and control of STIs is significantly challenged by emergence and spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), particularly for STIs such as Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Mycoplasma genitalium This is further compounded by use of nucleic acid amplification techniques for diagnosis, resulting in reduced phenotypic AMR testing for N. gonorrhoeae and absence or suboptimal AMR surveillance for guiding treatment of both STIs in many settings. Rapid accurate point-of-care (POC) tests for diagnosis of all STIs would be valuable but to significantly impact treatment precision and management of N. gonorrhoeae and M. genitalium infections, combinations of rapid POC diagnostic and AMR testing (POC-AMR) will likely be required. This strategy would combat STI burden and AMR emergence and spread by enabling diagnosis and individualised treatment at the first healthcare visit, potentially reducing selection pressure on recommended antimicrobials, reducing transmission of resistant strains and providing means for AMR surveillance. Microfluidic and nanotechnology platforms under development for rapid detection of STIs provide a basis to also develop molecular rapid POC-AMR prediction. A number of prototypic devices are in the pipeline but none as yet approved for routine use. However, particularly for N. gonorrhoeae, more knowledge is required to assess which antimicrobials lend themselves to a genotypic POC-AMR approach, in relation to genotypic-phenotypic associations and potential impact clinically and epidemiologically. Key for successful deployment will include also understanding cost-effectiveness, cost-consequences and acceptability for key stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syed Tariq Sadiq
- Applied Diagnostic Research and Evaluation Unit, St George's, University of London, London, UK
| | - Fulvia Mazzaferri
- Diagnostic and Public Health Department, Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Section, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Magnus Unemo
- World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Gonorrhoea and other STIs, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
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Turner KME, Christensen H, Adams EJ, McAdams D, Fifer H, McDonnell A, Woodford N. Analysis of the potential for point-of-care test to enable individualised treatment of infections caused by antimicrobial-resistant and susceptible strains of Neisseria gonorrhoeae: a modelling study. BMJ Open 2017; 7:e015447. [PMID: 28615273 PMCID: PMC5734280 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2016-015447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To create a mathematical model to investigate the treatment impact and economic implications of introducing an antimicrobial resistance point-of-care test (AMR POCT) for gonorrhoea as a way of extending the life of current last-line treatments. DESIGN Modelling study. SETTING England. POPULATION Patients accessing sexual health services. INTERVENTIONS Incremental impact of introducing a hypothetical AMR POCT that could detect susceptibility to previous first-line antibiotics, for example, ciprofloxacin or penicillin, so that patients are given more tailored treatment, compared with the current situation where all patients are given therapy with ceftriaxone and azithromycin. The hypothetical intervention was assessed using a mathematical model developed in Excel. The model included initial and follow-up attendances, loss to follow-up, use of standard or tailored treatment, time taken to treatment and the costs of testing and treatment. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Number of doses of ceftriaxone saved, mean time to most appropriate treatment, mean number of visits per (infected) patient, number of patients lost to follow-up and total cost of testing. RESULTS In the current situation, an estimated 33 431 ceftriaxone treatments are administered annually and 792 gonococcal infections remain untreated due to loss to follow-up. The use of an AMR POCT for ciprofloxacin could reduce these ceftriaxone treatments by 66%, and for an AMR POCT for penicillin by 79%. The mean time for patients receiving an antibiotic treatment is reduced by 2 days in scenarios including POCT and no positive patients remain untreated through eliminating loss to follow-up. Such POCTs are estimated to add £34 million to testing costs, but this does not take into account reductions in costs of repeat attendances and the reuse of older, cheaper antimicrobials. CONCLUSIONS The introduction of AMR POCT could allow clinicians to discern between the majority of gonorrhoea-positive patients with strains that could be treated with older, previously abandoned first-line treatments, and those requiring our current last-line dual therapy. Such tests could extend the useful life of dual ceftriaxone and azithromycin therapy, thus pushing back the time when gonorrhoea may become untreatable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katy ME Turner
- School of Veterinary Sciences, University of Bristol, Langford House, Bristol, UK
| | - Hannah Christensen
- School of Social and Community Medicine, University of Bristol, Oakfield House, Oakfield Grove, Bristol, UK
| | | | | | - Helen Fifer
- Bacteriology Reference Department, National Infection Service, Public Health England, London, UK
| | - Anthony McDonnell
- The O’Neill Review on Antimicrobial Resistance, Wellcome Trust, London, UK
| | - Neil Woodford
- Bacteriology Reference Department, National Infection Service, Public Health England, London, UK
- The O’Neill Review on Antimicrobial Resistance, Wellcome Trust, London, UK
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Harding-Esch EM, Nori AV, Hegazi A, Pond MJ, Okolo O, Nardone A, Lowndes CM, Hay P, Sadiq ST. Impact of deploying multiple point-of-care tests with a 'sample first' approach on a sexual health clinical care pathway. A service evaluation. Sex Transm Infect 2017; 93:424-429. [PMID: 28159916 PMCID: PMC5574381 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2016-052988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2016] [Revised: 01/06/2017] [Accepted: 01/14/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess clinical service value of STI point-of-care test (POCT) use in a 'sample first' clinical pathway (patients providing samples on arrival at clinic, before clinician consultation). Specific outcomes were: patient acceptability; whether a rapid nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) for Chlamydia trachomatis/Neisseria gonorrhoeae (CT/NG) could be used as a POCT in practice; feasibility of non-NAAT POCT implementation for Trichomonas vaginalis (TV) and bacterial vaginosis (BV); impact on patient diagnosis and treatment. METHODS Service evaluation in a south London sexual health clinic. Symptomatic female and male patients and sexual contacts of CT/NG-positive individuals provided samples for diagnostic testing on clinic arrival, prior to clinical consultation. Tests included routine culture and microscopy; CT/NG (GeneXpert) NAAT; non-NAAT POCTs for TV and BV. RESULTS All 70 (35 males, 35 females) patients approached participated. The 'sample first' pathway was acceptable, with >90% reporting they were happy to give samples on arrival and receive results in the same visit. Non-NAAT POCT results were available for all patients prior to leaving clinic; rapid CT/NG results were available for only 21.4% (15/70; 5 males, 10 females) of patients prior to leaving clinic. Known negative CT/NG results led to two females avoiding presumptive treatment, and one male receiving treatment directed at possible Mycoplasma genitalium infection causing non-gonococcal urethritis. Non-NAAT POCTs detected more positives than routine microscopy (TV 3 vs 2; BV 24 vs 7), resulting in more patients receiving treatment. CONCLUSIONS A 'sample first' clinical pathway to enable multiple POCT use was acceptable to patients and feasible in a busy sexual health clinic, but rapid CT/NG processing time was too long to enable POCT use. There is need for further development to improve test processing times to enable POC use of rapid NAATs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma M Harding-Esch
- Applied Diagnostic Research and Evaluation Unit, St George's University of London, Institute for Infection & Immunity, London, UK.,HIV/STI Department, National Infection Service, Public Health England, London, UK
| | - Achyuta V Nori
- Applied Diagnostic Research and Evaluation Unit, St George's University of London, Institute for Infection & Immunity, London, UK.,Courtyard Clinic, St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Aseel Hegazi
- Courtyard Clinic, St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Marcus J Pond
- Applied Diagnostic Research and Evaluation Unit, St George's University of London, Institute for Infection & Immunity, London, UK
| | - Olanike Okolo
- Courtyard Clinic, St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Anthony Nardone
- HIV/STI Department, National Infection Service, Public Health England, London, UK
| | - Catherine M Lowndes
- HIV/STI Department, National Infection Service, Public Health England, London, UK
| | - Phillip Hay
- Applied Diagnostic Research and Evaluation Unit, St George's University of London, Institute for Infection & Immunity, London, UK.,Courtyard Clinic, St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - S Tariq Sadiq
- Applied Diagnostic Research and Evaluation Unit, St George's University of London, Institute for Infection & Immunity, London, UK.,Courtyard Clinic, St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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47
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Schnelltest-Diagnostik sexuell übertragbarer Infektionen in niedrigschwelligen Einrichtungen. Bundesgesundheitsblatt Gesundheitsforschung Gesundheitsschutz 2016; 60:245-254. [DOI: 10.1007/s00103-016-2496-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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48
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Abstract
Point-of-care (POC) laboratories that deliver rapid diagnoses of infectious diseases were invented to balance the centralization of core laboratories. POC laboratories operate 24 h a day and 7 days a week to provide diagnoses within 2 h, largely based on immunochromatography and real-time PCR tests. In our experience, these tests are conveniently combined into syndrome-based kits that facilitate sampling, including self-sampling and test operations, as POC laboratories can be operated by trained operators who are not necessarily biologists. POC laboratories are a way of easily providing clinical microbiology testing for populations distant from laboratories in developing and developed countries and on ships. Modern Internet connections enable support from core laboratories. The cost-effectiveness of POC laboratories has been established for the rapid diagnosis of tuberculosis and sexually transmitted infections in both developed and developing countries.
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Rivard KR, Dumkow LE, Draper HM, Brandt KL, Whalen DW, Egwuatu NE. Impact of rapid diagnostic testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea on appropriate antimicrobial utilization in the emergency department. Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis 2016; 87:175-179. [PMID: 27836225 DOI: 10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2016.10.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2016] [Accepted: 10/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Prolonged turnaround time of Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) and Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) test results may delay time to notification and treatment of test-positive patients and result in unnecessary antimicrobial use in test-negative patients. This quasi-experimental study evaluated the impact of NG/CT rapid diagnostic testing (RDT) in an urban emergency department (ED) on treatment appropriateness, time to notification, and cost. Patients tested in December 2013-January 2014 (traditional group, n=200) were compared with those in December 2014-January 2015 (RDT group, n=200). There was a significant increase in treatment appropriateness in the RDT group, 72.5% versus 60% (P=0.008) and time to results notification was significantly faster (median 17.4 versus 51.5hours, P=0.010). Availability of test result prior to discharge was associated with increased treatment appropriateness (odds ratio, 22.65 [95% confidence interval, 2.86-179.68]). The RDT would save approximately $37,000 annually. These results support the use of NG/CT RDT to expand antimicrobial stewardship efforts within the ED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaitlyn R Rivard
- Department of Pharmaceutical Services, Mercy Health Saint Mary's, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Lisa E Dumkow
- Department of Pharmaceutical Services, Mercy Health Saint Mary's, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA.
| | - Heather M Draper
- Department of Pharmaceutical Services, Mercy Health Saint Mary's, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Kasey L Brandt
- Department of Pharmaceutical Services, Mercy Health Saint Mary's, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - David W Whalen
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Mercy Health Saint Mary's, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Nnaemeka E Egwuatu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Mercy Health Saint Mary's, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
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50
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A Systematic Review of Point of Care Testing for Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and Trichomonas vaginalis. Infect Dis Obstet Gynecol 2016; 2016:4386127. [PMID: 27313440 PMCID: PMC4899593 DOI: 10.1155/2016/4386127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2015] [Accepted: 03/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives. Systematic review of point of care (POC) diagnostic tests for sexually transmitted infections: Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG), and Trichomonas vaginalis (TV). Methods. Literature search on PubMed for articles from January 2010 to August 2015, including original research in English on POC diagnostics for sexually transmitted CT, NG, and/or TV. Results. We identified 33 publications with original research on POC diagnostics for CT, NG, and/or TV. Thirteen articles evaluated test performance, yielding at least one test for each infection with sensitivity and specificity ≥90%. Each infection also had currently available tests with sensitivities <60%. Three articles analyzed cost effectiveness, and five publications discussed acceptability and feasibility. POC testing was acceptable to both providers and patients and was also demonstrated to be cost effective. Fourteen proof of concept articles introduced new tests. Conclusions. Highly sensitive and specific POC tests are available for CT, NG, and TV, but improvement is possible. Future research should focus on acceptability, feasibility, and cost of POC testing. While pregnant women specifically have not been studied, the results available in nonpregnant populations are encouraging for the ability to test and treat women in antenatal care to prevent adverse pregnancy and neonatal outcomes.
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