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Hailemichael Y, Novignon J, Owusu L, Okyere D, Mtuy T, Alemu AY, Ocloo EK, Koka E, Palmer J, Walker SL, Gadisa E, Kaba M, Pitt C. The role of economic factors in shaping and constituting the household burden of neglected tropical diseases of the skin: Qualitative findings from Ghana and Ethiopia. Soc Sci Med 2024; 356:117094. [PMID: 39032192 PMCID: PMC11370647 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2024.117094] [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: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/22/2024]
Abstract
Tracers of health system equity, neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) disproportionately affect marginalized populations. NTDs that manifest on the skin - "skin NTDs" - are associated with scarring, disfigurement, physical disability, social exclusion, psychological distress, and economic hardship. To support development and evaluation of appropriate intervention strategies, we aimed to improve understanding of the role of economic factors in shaping and constituting the burden that skin NTDs place on households. We collected data in 2021 in two predominantly rural districts: Atwima Mponua in Ghana (where Buruli ulcer, yaws, and leprosy are endemic) and Kalu in Ethiopia (where cutaneous leishmaniasis and leprosy are endemic). We conducted interviews (n = 50) and focus group discussions (n = 14) that explored economic themes with affected individuals, caregivers, and community members and analysed the data thematically using a pre-defined framework. We found remarkable commonalities across countries and diseases. We developed a conceptual framework which illustrates skin NTDs' negative economic impact, including financial costs of care-seeking and reductions in work and schooling; categorises coping strategies by their degree of risk-pooling; and clarifies the mechanisms through which skin NTDs disproportionately affect the poorest. Despite health insurance schemes in both countries, wide-ranging, often harmful coping strategies were reported. Traditional healers were often described as more accessible, affordable and offering more flexible payment terms than formal health services, except for Ethiopia's well-established leprosy programme. Our findings are important in informing strategies to mitigate the skin NTD burden and identifying key drivers of household costs to measure in future evaluations. To reduce skin NTDs' impact on households' physical, mental, and economic wellbeing, intervention strategies should address economic constraints to prompt and effective care-seeking. While financial support and incentives for referrals and promotion of insurance enrolment may mitigate some constraints, structural interventions that decentralise care may offer more equitable and sustainable access to skin NTD care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jacob Novignon
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science & Technology, Kumasi, Ghana; Department of Economics, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science & Technology, Kumasi, Ghana.
| | - Lucy Owusu
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science & Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Daniel Okyere
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Tara Mtuy
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Abebaw Yeshambel Alemu
- Armauer Hansen Research Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Edmond Kwaku Ocloo
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana; Department of Sociology and Anthropology, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Eric Koka
- Department of Sociology and Anthropology, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Jennifer Palmer
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen L Walker
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Mirgissa Kaba
- School of Public Health, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Catherine Pitt
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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Sáez-López E, Millán-Placer AC, Lucía A, Ramón-García S. Amoxicillin/clavulanate in combination with rifampicin/clarithromycin is bactericidal against Mycobacterium ulcerans. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2024; 18:e0011867. [PMID: 38573915 PMCID: PMC10994486 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Buruli ulcer (BU) is a skin neglected tropical disease (NTD) caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans. WHO-recommended treatment requires 8-weeks of daily rifampicin (RIF) and clarithromycin (CLA) with wound care. Treatment compliance may be challenging due to socioeconomic determinants. Previous minimum Inhibitory Concentration and checkerboard assays showed that amoxicillin/clavulanate (AMX/CLV) combined with RIF+CLA were synergistic against M. ulcerans. However, in vitro time kill assays (TKA) are a better approach to understand the antimicrobial activity of a drug over time. Colony forming units (CFU) enumeration is the in vitro reference method to measure bacterial load, although this is a time-consuming method due to the slow growth of M. ulcerans. The aim of this study was to assess the in vitro activity of RIF, CLA and AMX/CLV combinations against M. ulcerans clinical isolates by TKA, while comparing four methodologies: CFU enumeration, luminescence by relative light unit (RLU) and optical density (at 600 nm) measurements, and 16S rRNA/IS2404 genes quantification. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS TKA of RIF, CLA and AMX/CLV alone and in combination were performed against different M. ulcerans clinical isolates. Bacterial loads were quantified with different methodologies after 1, 3, 7, 10, 14, 21 and 28 days of treatment. RIF+AMX/CLV and the triple RIF+CLA+AMX/CLV combinations were bactericidal and more effective in vitro than the currently used RIF+CLA combination to treat BU. All methodologies except IS2404 quantitative PCR provided similar results with a good correlation with CFU enumeration. Measuring luminescence (RLU) was the most cost-effective methodology to quantify M. ulcerans bacterial loads in in vitro TKA. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE Our study suggests that alternative and faster TKA methodologies can be used in BU research instead of the cumbersome CFU quantification method. These results provide an in vitro microbiological support to of the BLMs4BU clinical trial (NCT05169554, PACTR202209521256638) to shorten BU treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Sáez-López
- Department of Microbiology, Paediatrics, Radiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
- Spanish Network for Research on Respiratory Diseases (CIBERES), Carlos III Health Institute, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana C. Millán-Placer
- Department of Microbiology, Paediatrics, Radiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
- Spanish Network for Research on Respiratory Diseases (CIBERES), Carlos III Health Institute, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ainhoa Lucía
- Department of Microbiology, Paediatrics, Radiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
- Spanish Network for Research on Respiratory Diseases (CIBERES), Carlos III Health Institute, Madrid, Spain
| | - Santiago Ramón-García
- Department of Microbiology, Paediatrics, Radiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
- Spanish Network for Research on Respiratory Diseases (CIBERES), Carlos III Health Institute, Madrid, Spain
- Research & Development Agency of Aragón (ARAID) Foundation, Zaragoza, Spain
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Guertin JR, Gilbert-Ouimet M, Dugas M, Carnovale V, Jalbert L, Svyntozelska O, Demers J, Matteau L, Bergeron F, LeBlanc A. Methods used to account for caregivers' sex and gender within studies examining the financial burden of caregivers of children and adolescents : Results from a scoping review. CLINICOECONOMICS AND OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2024; 16:35-53. [PMID: 38298908 PMCID: PMC10829241 DOI: 10.2147/ceor.s443077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Interest in the financial burden of informal caregivers has been growing. Unfortunately, it remains unclear which method(s) should be used when quantifying this burden. Purpose We conducted a scoping review aimed at identifying which methods have been used to conduct such work and quantified their performance. We were also interested in examining how sex and gender considerations were considered within selected studies. Data Sources Using a standardized approach, we identified studies published between 2012 and 2022 that aimed to document the financial burden of caregivers to child and adolescent patients. Our search strategy was applied to the MEDLINE, Embase, CINHAL, and Academic Search Premier databases. Study Selection Manuscript selection was performed by pairs of reviewers. Data Extraction Data extraction was performed by one reviewer with a second reviewer performing quality control. Results were reported using a narrative approach. Data Synthesis We identified 9801 unique citations, of which 200 were included in our review. Selected studies covered various disease area (eg, infection/parasitic diseases [n = 31, 16%]) and included quantitative (n = 180, 90%), qualitative (n = 4, 2%) and mixed study designs (n = 16, 8%). Most studies (n = 182, 91%) used questionnaires/surveys, either alone or in combination with other methods, to assess caregivers' financial burden. Less than half (n = 93, 47%) of studies reported on caregivers' sex and none reported on their gender. Conclusion We conducted an unrestricted review of published studies examining caregiver's financial burden which allowed us to identify general methodological trends observed in this literature. We believe this work may help improve future studies focusing on this important issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Robert Guertin
- Centre de recherche du Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
- Centre de recherche en organogénèse expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Mahée Gilbert-Ouimet
- Centre de recherche du Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Health Sciences, Université du Québec À Rimouski, Levis, Quebec, Canada
| | - Michèle Dugas
- VITAM Research Center on Sustainable Health, Quebec Integrated University Health and Social Services Center, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Valérie Carnovale
- VITAM Research Center on Sustainable Health, Quebec Integrated University Health and Social Services Center, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Laura Jalbert
- VITAM Research Center on Sustainable Health, Quebec Integrated University Health and Social Services Center, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Olha Svyntozelska
- Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
- VITAM Research Center on Sustainable Health, Quebec Integrated University Health and Social Services Center, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Juliette Demers
- VITAM Research Center on Sustainable Health, Quebec Integrated University Health and Social Services Center, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Léonie Matteau
- Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Health Sciences, Université du Québec À Rimouski, Levis, Quebec, Canada
| | - Frédéric Bergeron
- Bibliothèque-Direction des services-conseils, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Annie LeBlanc
- Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
- VITAM Research Center on Sustainable Health, Quebec Integrated University Health and Social Services Center, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
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Popa GL, Muntean AA, Popa MI. Recent Advances in the Management Strategies for Buruli Ulcers. Pathogens 2023; 12:1088. [PMID: 37764896 PMCID: PMC10538148 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12091088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Buruli ulcer (BU) is a bacterial skin infection that is caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans and mainly affects people who reside in the rural areas of Africa and in suburban and beach resort communities in Australia. The infection typically begins as a painless papule or nodule that gradually develops into a large ulcer that can cause substantial impairment, damaging soft tissues and even bones. Early detection and immediate treatment are crucial to preventing further tissue damage and any potential complications, although it is worth noting that access to proper therapeutic resources can be limited in certain areas. The most commonly used antibiotics for treating BU are rifampicin, streptomycin, and clarithromycin; efforts have recently been made to introduce new treatments that increase the effectiveness and adherence to therapy. This article presents the latest research and management strategies regarding BU, providing an updated and intriguing perspective on this topic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Loredana Popa
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Alexandru Andrei Muntean
- Department of Microbiology II, Faculty of Medicine, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (A.A.M.); (M.I.P.)
- “Cantacuzino” National Military Medical Institute for Research and Development, 050096 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mircea Ioan Popa
- Department of Microbiology II, Faculty of Medicine, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (A.A.M.); (M.I.P.)
- “Cantacuzino” National Military Medical Institute for Research and Development, 050096 Bucharest, Romania
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Amoako YA, Agbanyo A, Novignon J, Owusu L, Tuffour J, Asante-Poku A, Hailemichael Y, Mosweu I, Canter R, Opondo C, Allen E, Pitt C, Yeboah-Manu D, Walker SL, Marks M, Phillips RO. Buruli-RifDACC: Evaluation of the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of high-dose versus standard-dose rifampicin on outcomes in Mycobacteriumulcerans disease, a protocol for a randomised controlled trial in Ghana. NIHR OPEN RESEARCH 2023; 2:59. [PMID: 36825217 PMCID: PMC7614217 DOI: 10.3310/nihropenres.13332.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023]
Abstract
Background Buruli ulcer (BU) can lead to disfiguring ulcers and permanent disability. The 2030 World Health Organization (WHO) road map for Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) calls for major scaling up in diagnosis and management to eliminate disability due to the disease. Current treatment for BU is with daily oral rifampicin (10mg/kg dose) and clarithromycin (15mg/kg dose) for eight weeks, combined with standard gauze wound dressings. Dialkylcarbamoyl chloride (DACC)-coated dressings have been shown to irreversibly bind bacteria on wound surfaces resulting in their removal when dressings are changed. This trial aims to determine whether combining a high-dose oral rifampicin regimen with DACC dressings can improve the rate of wound healing relative to standard-dose oral rifampicin combined with DACC dressings. Methods This is an individual, multi-centre Phase 3 randomised controlled trial, which will be conducted in three clinical sites in Ghana. The primary outcome measure will be the mean time to clearance of viable mycobacteria. Cost and health-related quality of life data will be collected, and a cost-effectiveness analysis will be performed. Discussion The findings from this trial could lead to a change in how BU is treated. A shorter but more efficacious regimen would lead to improved treatment outcomes and potentially substantial financial and economic savings. Trial registration Pan African Clinical Trials Repository (registration number; PACTR202011867644311). Registered on 30 th November 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaw Ampem Amoako
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research, Kumasi, Ghana
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | - Jacob Novignon
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research, Kumasi, Ghana
- Department of Economics, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Lucy Owusu
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Joseph Tuffour
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Adwoa Asante-Poku
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Iris Mosweu
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Ruth Canter
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Charles Opondo
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | - Catherine Pitt
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Dorothy Yeboah-Manu
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Michael Marks
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Richard Odame Phillips
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research, Kumasi, Ghana
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
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Amoako YA, Agbanyo A, Novignon J, Owusu L, Tuffour J, Asante-Poku A, Hailemichael Y, Mosweu I, Canter R, Opondo C, Allen E, Pitt C, Yeboah-Manu D, Walker SL, Marks M, Phillips RO. Buruli-RifDACC: Evaluation of the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of high-dose versus standard-dose rifampicin on outcomes in Mycobacterium ulcerans disease, a protocol for a randomised controlled trial in Ghana [version 1; peer review: 2 approved]. NIHR OPEN RESEARCH 2022; 2:59. [PMID: 36825217 PMCID: PMC7614217 DOI: 10.3310/nihropenres.13332.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Background Buruli ulcer (BU) can lead to disfiguring ulcers and permanent disability. The 2030 World Health Organization (WHO) road map for Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) calls for major scaling up in diagnosis and management to eliminate disability due to the disease. Current treatment for BU is with daily oral rifampicin (10mg/kg dose) and clarithromycin (15mg/kg dose) for eight weeks, combined with standard gauze wound dressings. Dialkylcarbamoyl chloride (DACC)-coated dressings have been shown to irreversibly bind bacteria on wound surfaces resulting in their removal when dressings are changed. This trial aims to determine whether combining a high-dose oral rifampicin regimen with DACC dressings can improve the rate of wound healing relative to standard-dose oral rifampicin combined with DACC dressings. Methods This is an individual, multi-centre Phase 3 randomised controlled trial, which will be conducted in three clinical sites in Ghana. The primary outcome measure will be the mean time to clearance of viable mycobacteria. Cost and health-related quality of life data will be collected, and a cost-effectiveness analysis will be performed. Discussion The findings from this trial could lead to a change in how BU is treated. A shorter but more efficacious regimen would lead to improved treatment outcomes and potentially substantial financial and economic savings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaw Ampem Amoako
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research, Kumasi, Ghana
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | - Jacob Novignon
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research, Kumasi, Ghana
- Department of Economics, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Lucy Owusu
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Joseph Tuffour
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Adwoa Asante-Poku
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Iris Mosweu
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Ruth Canter
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Charles Opondo
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | - Catherine Pitt
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Dorothy Yeboah-Manu
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Michael Marks
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Richard Odame Phillips
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research, Kumasi, Ghana
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
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Johnson RC, Sáez-López E, Anagonou ES, Kpoton GG, Ayelo AG, Gnimavo RS, Mignanwande FZ, Houezo JG, Sopoh GE, Addo J, Orford L, Vlasakakis G, Biswas N, Calderon F, Della Pasqua O, Gine-March A, Herrador Z, Mendoza-Losana A, Díez G, Cruz I, Ramón-García S. Comparison of 8 weeks standard treatment (rifampicin plus clarithromycin) vs. 4 weeks standard plus amoxicillin/clavulanate treatment [RC8 vs. RCA4] to shorten Buruli ulcer disease therapy (the BLMs4BU trial): study protocol for a randomized controlled multi-centre trial in Benin. Trials 2022; 23:559. [PMID: 35804454 PMCID: PMC9270751 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-022-06473-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Buruli ulcer (BU) is a neglected tropical disease caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans that affects skin, soft tissues, and bones, causing long-term morbidity, stigma, and disability. The recommended treatment for BU requires 8 weeks of daily rifampicin and clarithromycin together with wound care, physiotherapy, and sometimes tissue grafting and surgery. Recovery can take up to 1 year, and it may pose an unbearable financial burden to the household. Recent in vitro studies demonstrated that beta-lactams combined with rifampicin and clarithromycin are synergistic against M. ulcerans. Consequently, inclusion of amoxicillin/clavulanate in a triple oral therapy may potentially improve and shorten the healing process. The BLMs4BU trial aims to assess whether co-administration of amoxicillin/clavulanate with rifampicin and clarithromycin could reduce BU treatment from 8 to 4 weeks. METHODS We propose a randomized, controlled, open-label, parallel-group, non-inferiority phase II, multi-centre trial in Benin with participants stratified according to BU category lesions and randomized to two oral regimens: (i) Standard: rifampicin plus clarithromycin therapy for 8 weeks; and (ii) Investigational: standard plus amoxicillin/clavulanate for 4 weeks. The primary efficacy outcome will be lesion healing without recurrence and without excision surgery 12 months after start of treatment (i.e. cure rate). Seventy clinically diagnosed BU patients will be recruited per arm. Patients will be followed up over 12 months and managed according to standard clinical care procedures. Decision for excision surgery will be delayed to 14 weeks after start of treatment. Two sub-studies will also be performed: a pharmacokinetic and a microbiology study. DISCUSSION If successful, this study will create a new paradigm for BU treatment, which could inform World Health Organization policy and practice. A shortened, highly effective, all-oral regimen will improve care of BU patients and will lead to a decrease in hospitalization-related expenses and indirect and social costs and improve treatment adherence. This trial may also provide information on treatment shortening strategies for other mycobacterial infections (tuberculosis, leprosy, or non-tuberculous mycobacteria infections). TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05169554 . Registered on 27 December 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roch Christian Johnson
- Centre Interfacultaire de Formation et de Recherche en Environnement pour le Développement Durable (CIFRED), Université d'Abomey-Calavi, Abomey-Calavi, Benin
- Fondation Raoul Follereau, Paris, France
| | - Emma Sáez-López
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
- CIBER Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBERES), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Esaï Sèdjro Anagonou
- Centre Interfacultaire de Formation et de Recherche en Environnement pour le Développement Durable (CIFRED), Université d'Abomey-Calavi, Abomey-Calavi, Benin
| | - Godwin Gérard Kpoton
- Centre Interfacultaire de Formation et de Recherche en Environnement pour le Développement Durable (CIFRED), Université d'Abomey-Calavi, Abomey-Calavi, Benin
| | - Adjimon Gilbert Ayelo
- Centre Interfacultaire de Formation et de Recherche en Environnement pour le Développement Durable (CIFRED), Université d'Abomey-Calavi, Abomey-Calavi, Benin
| | - Ronald Sètondji Gnimavo
- Centre Interfacultaire de Formation et de Recherche en Environnement pour le Développement Durable (CIFRED), Université d'Abomey-Calavi, Abomey-Calavi, Benin
| | - Franck Zinsou Mignanwande
- Centre Interfacultaire de Formation et de Recherche en Environnement pour le Développement Durable (CIFRED), Université d'Abomey-Calavi, Abomey-Calavi, Benin
| | - Jean-Gabin Houezo
- Programme National de Lutte Contre l'Ulcère de Buruli, Cotonou, Bénin
| | | | - Juliet Addo
- Global Health Catalyst, GlaxoSmithKline, Brentford, London, UK
| | - Lindsay Orford
- Global Health Catalyst, GlaxoSmithKline, Brentford, London, UK
| | | | - Nandita Biswas
- Global Health Catalyst, GlaxoSmithKline, Brentford, London, UK
| | - Felix Calderon
- Global Health Catalyst, GlaxoSmithKline, Brentford, London, UK
| | - Oscar Della Pasqua
- Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics Group, University College London, London, UK
- Consiglio Nazionale Delle Ricerche, Istituto Per Le Applicazioni del Calcolo, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Zaida Herrador
- National Centre for Epidemiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alfonso Mendoza-Losana
- Global Health Catalyst, GlaxoSmithKline, Brentford, London, UK
- Department of Bioengineering and Aeroespace Engineering, Carlos III University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Israel Cruz
- National School of Public Health, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- CIBER Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Santiago Ramón-García
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain.
- CIBER Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBERES), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
- Research & Development Agency of Aragon (ARAID) Foundation, Zaragoza, Spain.
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Amoako YA, Ackam N, Omuojine JP, Oppong MN, Owusu-Ansah AG, Abass MK, Amofa G, Ofori E, Frimpong M, Bailey F, Molyneux DH, Phillips RO. Caregiver burden in Buruli ulcer disease: Evidence from Ghana. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009454. [PMID: 34061828 PMCID: PMC8195390 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Buruli ulcer disease (BUD) results in disabilities and deformities in the absence of early medical intervention. The extensive role of caregiving in BUD is widely acknowledged, however, associated caregiver burden is poorly understood. In this paper we assessed the burden which caregivers experience when supporting patients with BUD in Ghana. METHOD/ PRINCIPAL FINDINGS This qualitative study was conducted in 3 districts in Ghana between August and October 2019. 13 semi-structured interviews were conducted on caregivers of BUD patients in the local language of Twi. Data was translated into English, coded into broad themes, and direct content analysis approach was used to analyse results. The results show the caregivers face financial, psychological and health issues as a consequence of their caregiving role. CONCLUSION/ SIGNIFICANCE This study found significant caregiver burden on family members. It also highlighted the psychological burden caregivers experience and the limited knowledge of the disease within endemic communities. Further research is needed to quantify the caregiver burden of BUD at different economic levels in order to better understand the impact of possible caregiver interventions on patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaw Ampem Amoako
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana
- * E-mail:
| | - Nancy Ackam
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | - Michael Ntiamoah Oppong
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Abena Gyawu Owusu-Ansah
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | | | | | - Michael Frimpong
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Freddie Bailey
- Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Pembroke Place, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - David Hurst Molyneux
- Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Pembroke Place, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Richard Odame Phillips
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana
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Simpson H, Tabah EN, Phillips RO, Frimpong M, Maman I, Ampadu E, Timothy J, Saunderson P, Pullan RL, Cano J. Mapping suitability for Buruli ulcer at fine spatial scales across Africa: A modelling study. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009157. [PMID: 33657104 PMCID: PMC7959670 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Buruli ulcer (BU) is a disabling and stigmatising neglected tropical disease (NTD). Its distribution and burden are unknown because of underdiagnosis and underreporting. It is caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans, an environmental pathogen whose environmental niche and transmission routes are not fully understood. The main control strategy is active surveillance to promote early treatment and thus limit morbidity, but these activities are mostly restricted to well-known endemic areas. A better understanding of environmental suitability for the bacterium and disease could inform targeted surveillance, and advance understanding of the ecology and burden of BU. We used previously compiled point-level datasets of BU and M. ulcerans occurrence, evidence for BU occurrence within national and sub-national areas, and a suite of relevant environmental covariates in a distribution modelling framework. We fitted relationships between BU and M. ulcerans occurrence and environmental predictors by applying regression and machine learning based algorithms, combined in an ensemble model to characterise the optimal ecological niche for the disease and bacterium across Africa at a resolution of 5km x 5km. Proximity to waterbodies was the strongest predictor of suitability for BU, followed potential evapotranspiration. The strongest predictors of suitability for M. ulcerans were deforestation and potential evapotranspiration. We identified patchy foci of suitability throughout West and Central Africa, including areas with no previous evidence of the disease. Predicted suitability for M. ulcerans was wider but overlapping with that of BU. The estimated population living in areas predicted suitable for the bacterium and disease was 46.1 million. These maps could be used to inform burden estimations and case searches which would generate a more complete understanding of the spatial distribution of BU in Africa, and may guide control programmes to identify cases beyond the well-known endemic areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hope Simpson
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Earnest Njih Tabah
- National Yaws, Leishmaniasis, Leprosy and Buruli ulcer Control Programme, Cameroon
| | - Richard O. Phillips
- School of Medical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Michael Frimpong
- School of Medical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Issaka Maman
- National Reference Laboratory for Buruli Ulcer Disease in Togo, Ecole Supérieure des Techniques Biologiques et Alimentaires (ESTBA), Laboratoire des Sciences Biologiques et des Substances Bioactives, Université de Lomé, Lomé, Togo
| | - Edwin Ampadu
- National Buruli Ulcer Control Program, Ghana Health Service, Accra, Ghana
| | - Joseph Timothy
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Paul Saunderson
- Accelerating Integrated Management (AIM) Initiative, Accra, Ghana
| | - Rachel L. Pullan
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jorge Cano
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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10
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Collinson S, Frimpong VNB, Agbavor B, Montgomery B, Oppong M, Frimpong M, Amoako YA, Marks M, Phillips RO. Barriers to Buruli ulcer treatment completion in the Ashanti and Central Regions, Ghana. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008369. [PMID: 32453800 PMCID: PMC7274448 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Revised: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Buruli ulcer is a chronic ulcerating skin condition, with the highest burden found in Central and West Africa where it disproportionately affects the most vulnerable populations. Treatment is demanding, comprising eight-weeks of daily antibiotics, regular wound care and possible surgical intervention. Treatment completion is key to optimising outcomes, however the degree of and barriers to this are not well understood. Recent change from injectable treatment (SR8) to oral treatment (CR8) has made it feasible to further decentralise care, potentially improving treatment access and completion. However, the impact of this and of other demographic and clinical influences on treatment completion must be explored first to ensure appropriate models of care are developed. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS A retrospective clinical notes review and secondary data analysis of records from patients diagnosed between 1 January 2006-31 December 2018 at four district hospital clinics in the Ashanti and Central Regions, Ghana. Univariable analyses and multivariable logistic regression were performed to assess the association between explanatory variables and treatment completion. There were 931 patient episodes across the four clinics with overall treatment completion of 84.4%. CR8 was associated with higher treatment completion compared to SR8 (OR 4.1, P = 0.001). There was no statistically significant association found between distance from patient residence to clinic and treatment completion. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE Improved treatment completion with CR8 supports its use as first line therapy and may enable decentralisation to fully community-based care. We did not find an association between distance to care and treatment completion, though analyses were limited by data availability. However, we did find evidence that distance to care continues to be associated with more severe forms of disease, which may reflect the higher costs of accessing care and lower awareness of the condition the further a patient lives. Decentralised care must therefore also continue to support community engagement and active outreach to identify cases early.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shelui Collinson
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Venus N. B. Frimpong
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Bernadette Agbavor
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Bethany Montgomery
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Michael Oppong
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Michael Frimpong
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Yaw A. Amoako
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Michael Marks
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Hospital for Tropical Diseases, London, United Kingdom
| | - Richard O. Phillips
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
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11
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High-Dose Rifamycins Enable Shorter Oral Treatment in a Murine Model of Mycobacterium ulcerans Disease. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2019; 63:AAC.01478-18. [PMID: 30455239 DOI: 10.1128/aac.01478-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2018] [Accepted: 11/06/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Buruli ulcer (BU), caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans, is a neglected tropical skin and soft tissue infection that is associated with disability and social stigma. The mainstay of BU treatment is an 8-week course of rifampin (RIF) at 10 mg/kg of body weight and 150 mg/kg streptomycin (STR). Recently, the injectable STR has been shown to be replaceable with oral clarithromycin (CLR) for smaller lesions for the last 4 weeks of treatment. A shorter, all-oral, highly efficient regimen for BU is needed, as the long treatment duration and indirect costs currently burden patients and health systems. Increasing the dose of RIF or replacing it with the more potent rifamycin drug rifapentine (RPT) could provide such a regimen. Here, we performed a dose-ranging experiment of RIF and RPT in combination with CLR over 4 weeks of treatment in a mouse model of M. ulcerans disease. A clear dose-dependent effect of RIF on both clinical and microbiological outcomes was found, with no ceiling effect observed with tested doses up to 40 mg/kg. RPT-containing regimens were more effective on M. ulcerans All RPT-containing regimens achieved culture negativity after only 4 weeks, while only the regimen with the highest RIF dose (40 mg/kg) did so. We conclude that there is dose-dependent efficacy of both RIF and RPT and that a ceiling effect is not reached with the current standard regimen used in the clinic. A regimen based on higher rifamycin doses than are currently being evaluated against tuberculosis in clinical trials could shorten and improve therapy of Buruli ulcer.
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12
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Chukwu JN, Meka AO, Nwafor CC, Oshi DC, Madichie NO, Ekeke N, Anyim MC, Chukwuka A, Obinna M, Adegbesan J, Njoku M, Soyinka FO, Adelokiki AO, Enemuoh IO, Okolie PI, Edochie JE, Offor JB, Ushaka J, Ukwaja KN. Financial burden of health care for Buruli ulcer patients in Nigeria: the patients’ perspective. Int Health 2016; 9:36-43. [DOI: 10.1093/inthealth/ihw056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2016] [Revised: 09/29/2016] [Accepted: 11/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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13
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Hofstraat K, van Brakel WH. Social stigma towards neglected tropical diseases: a systematic review. Int Health 2016; 8 Suppl 1:i53-70. [PMID: 26940310 DOI: 10.1093/inthealth/ihv071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND People affected by neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are frequently the target of social stigmatization. To date not much attention has been given to stigma in relation to NTDs. The objective of this review is to identify the extent of social stigma and the similarities and differences in the causes, manifestations, impact of stigma and interventions used between the NTDs. METHODS A systematic review was conducted in Pubmed, ScienceDirect, PsycINFO and Web of Knowledge. The search encompassed 17 NTDs, including podoconiosis, but not leprosy as this NTD has recently been reviewed. However, leprosy was included in the discussion. RESULTS The 52 selected articles provided evidence on stigma related to lymphatic filariasis (LF), podoconiosis, Buruli ulcer, onchocerciasis, schistosomiasis, leishmaniasis, Chagas disease, trachoma, soil-transmitted helminthiasis (STH) and human African trypanosomiasis. The similarities predominated in stigma related to the various NTDs; only minimal differences in stigma reasons and measures were found. CONCLUSION These similarities suggest that joint approaches to reduce stigmatization may be feasible. Lessons from leprosy and other stigmatized health conditions can be used to plan such joint approaches. Further research will be necessary to study the efficacy of joint interventions and to investigate stigma related to NTDs for which no evidence is available yet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karlijn Hofstraat
- Netherlands Leprosy Relief, Wibautstraat 137k, 1097 DN Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Wim H van Brakel
- Netherlands Leprosy Relief, Wibautstraat 137k, 1097 DN Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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14
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Garchitorena A, Ngonghala CN, Guegan JF, Texier G, Bellanger M, Bonds M, Roche B. Economic inequality caused by feedbacks between poverty and the dynamics of a rare tropical disease: the case of Buruli ulcer in sub-Saharan Africa. Proc Biol Sci 2016; 282:20151426. [PMID: 26538592 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2015.1426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) have received increasing attention in recent years by the global heath community, as they cumulatively constitute substantial burdens of disease as well as barriers for economic development. A number of common tropical diseases such as malaria, hookworm or schistosomiasis have well-documented economic impacts. However, much less is known about the population-level impacts of diseases that are rare but associated with high disability burden, which represent a great number of tropical diseases. Using an individual-based model of Buruli ulcer (BU), we demonstrate that, through feedbacks between health and economic status, such NTDs can have a significant impact on the economic structure of human populations even at low incidence levels. While average wealth is only marginally affected by BU, the economic conditions of certain subpopulations are impacted sufficiently to create changes in measurable population-level inequality. A reduction of the disability burden caused by BU can thus maximize the economic growth of the poorest subpopulations and reduce significantly the economic inequalities introduced by the disease in endemic regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrés Garchitorena
- UMR MIVEGEC 5290 CNRS - IRD - Université de Montpellier I, Université de Montpellier II, Montpellier, France Ecole des Hautes Etudes en Santé Publique, Rennes, France Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Calistus N Ngonghala
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jean-Francois Guegan
- UMR MIVEGEC 5290 CNRS - IRD - Université de Montpellier I, Université de Montpellier II, Montpellier, France Ecole des Hautes Etudes en Santé Publique, Rennes, France
| | - Gaëtan Texier
- Service d'épidémiologie et de Santé Publique, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, Réseau International des Instituts Pasteur, Yaoundé, Cameroun. UMR 912 - SESSTIM - INSERM/IRD/Aix-Marseille Université Faculté de Médecine, Marseille, France
| | | | - Matthew Bonds
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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Geroult S, Phillips R, Demangel C. Adhesion of the ulcerative pathogenMycobacterium ulceransto DACC-coated dressings. J Wound Care 2014; 23:417-8, 422-4. [DOI: 10.12968/jowc.2014.23.8.417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S. Geroult
- Laboratory Technician, Immunology Department, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
- Research Group Leader, CNRS URA 1961, Paris, France
| | - R.O. Phillips
- Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - C. Demangel
- Laboratory Technician, Immunology Department, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
- Research Group Leader, CNRS URA 1961, Paris, France
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