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Gils T, Kamele M, Madonsela T, Bosman S, Ngubane T, Joseph P, Reither K, Bresser M, Vlieghe E, Decroo T, Ayakaka I, Lynen L, Van Heerden A. Implementation of the advanced HIV disease care package with point-of-care CD4 testing during tuberculosis case finding: A mixed-methods evaluation. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0296197. [PMID: 38134020 PMCID: PMC10745215 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0296197] [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: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
During TB-case finding, we assessed the feasibility of implementing the advanced HIV disease (AHD) care package, including VISITECT CD4 Advanced Disease (VISITECT), a semiquantitative test to identify a CD4≤200cells/μl. Adult participants with tuberculosis symptoms, recruited near-facility in Lesotho and South-Africa between 2021-2022, were offered HIV testing (capillary blood), Xpert MTB/RIF and Ultra, and MGIT culture (sputum). People living with HIV (PLHIV) were offered VISITECT (venous blood) and Alere tuberculosis-lipoarabinomannan (AlereLAM, urine) testing. AHD was defined as a CD4≤200cells/μl on VISITECT or a positive tuberculosis test. A CD4≤200cells/μl on VISITECT triggered Immy cryptococcal antigen (Immy CrAg, plasma) testing. Participants were referred with test results. To evaluate feasibility, we assessed i) acceptability and ii) intervention delivery of point-of-care diagnostics among study staff using questionnaires and group discussions, iii) process compliance, and iv) early effectiveness (12-week survival and treatment status) in PLHIV. Predictors for 12-week survival were assessed with logistic regression. Thematic content analysis and triangulation were performed. Among PLHIV (N = 676, 48.6% of 1392 participants), 7.8% were newly diagnosed, 81.8% on ART, and 10.4% knew their HIV status but were not on ART. Among 676 PLHIV, 41.7% had AHD, 29.9% a CD4≤200cells/μl and 20.6% a tuberculosis diagnosis. Among 200 PLHIV tested with Immy CrAg, 4.0% were positive. The procedures were acceptable for study staff, despite intervention delivery challenges related to supply and the long procedural duration (median: 73 minutes). At 12 weeks, among 276 PLHIV with AHD and 328 without, 3.3% and 0.9% had died, 84.8% and 92.1% were alive and 12.0% and 7.0% had an unknown status, respectively. Neither AHD nor tuberculosis status were associated with survival. Implementing AHD care package diagnostics was feasible during tuberculosis-case finding. AHD was prevalent, and not associated with survival, which is likely explained by the low specificity of VISITECT. Challenges with CD4 testing and preventive treatment uptake require addressing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tinne Gils
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
- Global Health Institute, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | | | - Thandanani Madonsela
- Centre for Community Based Research, Human Sciences Research Council, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - Shannon Bosman
- Centre for Community Based Research, Human Sciences Research Council, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - Thulani Ngubane
- Centre for Community Based Research, Human Sciences Research Council, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - Philip Joseph
- Centre for Community Based Research, Human Sciences Research Council, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - Klaus Reither
- Clinical Research Unit, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
- Medical Outpatient Department, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Moniek Bresser
- Clinical Research Unit, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
- Medical Outpatient Department, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Erika Vlieghe
- Global Health Institute, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Tom Decroo
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Irene Ayakaka
- SolidarMed, Partnerships for Health, Butha-Buthe, Lesotho
| | - Lutgarde Lynen
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Alastair Van Heerden
- Centre for Community Based Research, Human Sciences Research Council, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
- MRC/Wits Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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2
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Messina F, Santiso G, Arechavala A, Romero M, Depardo R, Marin E. Preemptive Therapy in Cryptococcosis Adjusted for Outcomes. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:631. [PMID: 37367567 DOI: 10.3390/jof9060631] [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: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcosis is one of the most serious opportunistic diseases in patients living with HIV. For this reason, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are important. OBJECTIVES The aim of the study was to understand the development of patients diagnosed with cryptococcosis by detection of Cryptococcus antigen in serum by lateral flow assay (CrAg LFA) without nervous system involvement and with treatment in accordance with the results. MATERIALS AND METHODS A retrospective, longitudinal, analytical study was performed. Seventy patients with cryptococcosis initially diagnosed by serum CrAg LFA without meningeal involvement between January 2019 and April 2022 were analyzed for medical records. The treatment regimen was adapted to the results of blood culture, respiratory material, and pulmonary tomography imaging. RESULTS Seventy patients were included, 13 had probable pulmonary cryptococcosis, 4 had proven pulmonary cryptococcosis, 3 had fungemia, and 50 had preemptive therapy without microbiological or imaging findings compatible with cryptococcosis. Among the 50 patients with preemptive therapy, none had meningeal involvement or cryptococcosis recurrences to date. CONCLUSION Preemptive therapy avoided progression to meningitis in CrAg LFA-positive patients. Preemptive therapy with dose adjustment of fluconazole in patients with the mentioned characteristics was useful despite the use of lower doses than recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Messina
- Mycology Unit, Infectious Diseases Hospital F.J. Muñiz, Buenos Aires C1282AEN, Argentina
| | - Gabriela Santiso
- Mycology Unit, Infectious Diseases Hospital F.J. Muñiz, Buenos Aires C1282AEN, Argentina
| | - Alicia Arechavala
- Mycology Unit, Infectious Diseases Hospital F.J. Muñiz, Buenos Aires C1282AEN, Argentina
| | - Mercedes Romero
- Mycology Unit, Infectious Diseases Hospital F.J. Muñiz, Buenos Aires C1282AEN, Argentina
| | - Roxana Depardo
- Mycology Unit, Infectious Diseases Hospital F.J. Muñiz, Buenos Aires C1282AEN, Argentina
| | - Emmanuel Marin
- Mycology Unit, Infectious Diseases Hospital F.J. Muñiz, Buenos Aires C1282AEN, Argentina
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Luethy PM. Point-of-Care Testing for the Diagnosis of Fungal Infections. Clin Lab Med 2023; 43:209-220. [PMID: 37169443 DOI: 10.1016/j.cll.2023.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/17/2023]
Abstract
Invasive fungal infections are increasing worldwide due to factors such as climate change and immunomodulating therapies. Unfortunately, the detection of these infections is limited due to the low sensitivity and long periods required for laboratory testing. Point-of-care testing could lead to more rapid diagnosis of these often devasting infections. However, there are currently no true point-of-care tests on the market for the detection of fungi. In this article, the current state of fungal antigen and molecular testing is reviewed, with commentary on the potential for development and use in the point-of-care setting.
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Ndlovu Z, Ellman T. Lay testing cadres and point-of-care diagnostic tests for HIV and other diseases: An essential combination in health service delivery. PLoS Med 2021; 18:e1003867. [PMID: 34818336 PMCID: PMC8664212 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1003867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Zibusiso Ndlovu and Tom Ellman discuss the potential value of task sharing in provision of testing for HIV and other infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zibusiso Ndlovu
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Southern African Medical Unit, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Tom Ellman
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Southern African Medical Unit, Cape Town, South Africa
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MAKADZANGE TA, HLUPENI A, MACHEKANO R, BOYD K, MTISI T, NYAMAYARO P, ROSS C, VALLABHANENI S, BALACHANDRA S, CHONZI P, NDHLOVU CE. Survival following screening and preemptive antifungal therapy for subclinical cryptococcal disease in advanced HIV infection. AIDS 2021; 35:1929-1938. [PMID: 34101629 PMCID: PMC8416705 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000002971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Our study's primary objective was to compare 1-year survival rates between serum cryptococcal antigen (sCrAg)-positive and sCrAg-negative HIV-positive individuals with CD4+ cell counts less than 100 cells/μl without symptoms of meningitis in Zimbabwe. DESIGN This was a prospective cohort study. METHODS Participants were enrolled as either sCrAg-positive or sCrAg-negative and followed up for 52 weeks or less, with death as the outcome. Lumbar punctures were recommended to all sCrAg-positives and inpatient management with intravenous amphotericin B and high-dose fluconazole was recommended to those with disseminated Cryptococcus. Antiretroviral therapy was initiated immediately in sCrAg-negatives and after at least 4 weeks following initiation of antifungals in sCrAg-positives. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to determine risk factors for mortality. RESULTS We enrolled 1320 participants and 130 (9.8%) were sCrAg positive, with a median sCrAg titre of 1 : 20. Sixty-six (50.8%) sCrAg-positives had lumbar punctures and 16.7% (11/66) had central nervous system (CNS) dissemination. Cryptococcal blood cultures were performed in 129 sCrAg-positives, with 10 (7.8%) being positive. One-year (48-52 weeks) survival rates were 83.9 and 76.1% in sCrAg-negatives and sCrAg-positives, respectively, P = 0.011. Factors associated with increased mortality were a positive sCrAg, CD4+ cell count less than 50 cells/μl and having presumptive tuberculosis (TB) symptoms. CONCLUSION Our study reports a high prevalence of subclinical cryptococcal antigenemia and reiterates the importance of TB and a positive sCrAg as risk factors for mortality in advanced HIV disease (AHD). Therefore, TB and sCrAg screening remains a crucial component of AHD package, hence it should always be part of the comprehensive clinical evaluation in AHD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Admire HLUPENI
- Department of Medicine, University of Zimbabwe College of Health Sciences, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Rhoderick MACHEKANO
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, South Africa
| | - Kathryn BOYD
- Department of Medicine, University of Zimbabwe College of Health Sciences, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Takudzwa MTISI
- Department of Medicine, University of Zimbabwe College of Health Sciences, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Primrose NYAMAYARO
- Department of Medicine, University of Zimbabwe College of Health Sciences, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Christine ROSS
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | | | | | - Prosper CHONZI
- Health Services Department, City of Harare, Harare, Zimbabwe
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Zuniga-Moya JC, Romero-Reyes LE, Saavedra EB, Montoya S, Varela D, Borjas M, Cerna A, Bejarano S, Martinez P, Lujan K, Erazo K, Lainez I, Pineda L, Yanes D, O'Halloran JA, Spec A. Prevalence of Cryptococcal Antigen and Outcomes in People With Human Immunodeficiency Virus in Honduras: A Cohort Study. Open Forum Infect Dis 2020; 8:ofaa557. [PMID: 33447630 PMCID: PMC7794649 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofaa557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cryptococcal meningitis is a major cause of death among people with human immunodeficiency virus (PWH). Cryptococcal antigen (CrAg) testing of asymptomatic patients is an important public health measure to reduce mortality in high-incidence areas. However, limited data exist on CrAg prevalence in Central America. Methods We conducted a prospective cohort study at the 2 largest human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) clinics and hospitals in Honduras. Cryptococcal antigen in serum and cerebrospinal fluid was performed in individuals with HIV who had CD4 ≤100 cells/mm3 between 2017 and 2018. After CrAg testing, individuals were observed for 12 months to assess mortality using adjusted Cox proportional hazard models. Results A total of 220 PWH were tested for CrAg, 12.7% (n = 28) of which tested positive. Cryptococcal antigen prevalence was higher among hospitalized individuals in 40% (n = 10 of 25) of the cases. The proportion (35.8%) of individuals taking antiretroviral therapy was significantly (P < .01) lower among those who tested positive for CrAg. Overall mortality among the cohort was 11.4% (n = 25 of 220) by 12 months. Cryptococcal antigen-positive cases were at a significantly higher risk of death (adjusted hazard ratio, 2.69; 95% confidence interval, 1.07-6.84) compared with CrAg-negative participants. Conclusions Cryptococcal antigen prevalence in Honduras was high among PWH. Moreover, individuals who tested positive for CrAg testing were at a higher risk of death. Systemic CrAg of PWH with a CD4 ≤100 cells/mm3 should be routinely performed in Central America.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julio C Zuniga-Moya
- Universidad Catolica de Honduras Campus San Pedro Sula Pablo, San Pedro Sula, Honduras
| | | | | | | | - Diana Varela
- Hospital Escuela Universitario, Tegucigalpa, Honduras
| | | | - Alicia Cerna
- Hospital Escuela Universitario, Tegucigalpa, Honduras
| | - Suyapa Bejarano
- Universidad Catolica de Honduras Campus San Pedro Sula Pablo, San Pedro Sula, Honduras
| | - Paola Martinez
- Universidad Catolica de Honduras Campus San Pedro Sula Pablo, San Pedro Sula, Honduras
| | - Karen Lujan
- Clinica de Servicios de Atencion Integral, Tegucigalpa, Honduras
| | - Karen Erazo
- Clinica de Servicios de Atencion Integral, Tegucigalpa, Honduras
| | - Isis Lainez
- Hospital Dr. Mario Catarino Rivas, San Pedro Sula, Honduras
| | | | - David Yanes
- Universidad Catolica de Honduras Campus San Pedro Sula Pablo, San Pedro Sula, Honduras
| | - Jane A O'Halloran
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infection, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Andrej Spec
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infection, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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Greene G, Lawrence DS, Jordan A, Chiller T, Jarvis JN. Cryptococcal meningitis: a review of cryptococcal antigen screening programs in Africa. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2020; 19:233-244. [PMID: 32567406 DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2020.1785871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cryptococcal meningitis remains a significant contributor to AIDS-related mortality despite widened access to antiretroviral therapy. Cryptococcal antigen (CrAg) can be detected in the blood prior to development of meningitis. Development of highly sensitive and specific rapid diagnostic CrAg tests has helped facilitate the adoption of CrAg screening programs in 19 African countries. AREAS COVERED The biological rationale for CrAg screening and the programmatic strategies for its implementation are reviewed. We describe the approach to the investigation of patients with cryptococcal antigenemia and the importance of lumbar puncture to identify individuals who may have cryptococcal meningitis in the absence of symptoms. The limitations of current treatment recommendations and the potential role of newly defined combination antifungal therapies are discussed. A literature review was conducted using a broad database search for cryptococcal antigen screening and related terms in published journal articles dating up to December 2019. Conference abstracts, publicly available guidelines, and project descriptions were also incorporated. EXPERT OPINION As we learn more about the risks of cryptococcal antigenemia, it has become clear that the current management paradigm is inadequate. More intensive investigation and management are required to prevent the development of cryptococcal meningitis and reduce mortality associated with cryptococcal antigenemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greg Greene
- Centre for Healthcare-Associated Infections, Antimicrobial Resistance and Mycoses, National Institute for Communicable Diseases, a Division of the NHLS , Johannesburg, South Africa.,Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious & Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine , London, UK
| | - David S Lawrence
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious & Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine , London, UK.,Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership , Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Alex Jordan
- Mycotic Diseases Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , Atlanta, USA
| | - Tom Chiller
- Mycotic Diseases Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , Atlanta, USA
| | - Joseph N Jarvis
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious & Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine , London, UK.,Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership , Gaborone, Botswana
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8
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Ndlovu Z, Burton R, Stewart R, Bygrave H, Roberts T, Fajardo E, Mataka A, Szumilin E, Kerschberger B, Van Cutsem G, Ellman T. Framework for the implementation of advanced HIV disease diagnostics in sub-Saharan Africa: programmatic perspectives. Lancet HIV 2020; 7:e514-e520. [PMID: 32473102 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3018(20)30101-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2019] [Revised: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Patients with advanced HIV disease have a high risk of mortality, mainly from tuberculosis and cryptococcal meningitis. The advanced HIV disease management package recommended by WHO, which includes diagnostics, therapeutics, and patient psychosocial support, is barely implemented in many different countries. Here, we present a framework for the implementation of advanced HIV disease diagnostics. Laboratory and point-of-care-based reflex testing, coupled with provider-initiated requested testing, for cryptococcal antigen and urinary Mycobacterium tuberculosis lipoarabinomannan antigen, should be done for all patients with CD4+ cell counts of 200 cells per μL or less. Implementation of the advanced HIV disease package should be encouraged within primary health-care facilities and task shifting of testing to lay cadres could facilitate access to rapid results. Implementation of differentiated antiretroviral therapy delivery models can allow clinicians enough time to focus on the management of patients with advanced HIV disease. Efficient up-referral and post-discharge systems, including the development of patient-centric advanced HIV disease literacy, are also crucial. Implementation of the advanced HIV disease package is feasible at all health-care levels, and it should be part of the core of the global response towards ending AIDS as a public health threat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zibusiso Ndlovu
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Southern African Medical Unit, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Rosie Burton
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Southern African Medical Unit, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Helen Bygrave
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Access Campaign, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Teri Roberts
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Access Campaign, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Anafi Mataka
- African Society for Laboratory Medicine, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | | | - Gilles Van Cutsem
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Southern African Medical Unit, Cape Town, South Africa; Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Research, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Tom Ellman
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Southern African Medical Unit, Cape Town, South Africa
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9
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Temfack E, Bigna JJ, Luma HN, Spijker R, Meintjes G, Jarvis JN, Dromer F, Harrison T, Cohen JF, Lortholary O. Impact of Routine Cryptococcal Antigen Screening and Targeted Preemptive Fluconazole Therapy in Antiretroviral-naive Human Immunodeficiency Virus-infected Adults With CD4 Cell Counts <100/μL: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Clin Infect Dis 2020; 68:688-698. [PMID: 30020446 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciy567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/07/2018] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcal antigen (CrAg) screening and targeted preemptive fluconazole in antiretroviral-naive human immunodeficiency virus-infected adults with CD4 cell counts <100/μL seems promising as a strategy to reduce the burden of cryptococcal meningitis (CM). We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Web of Science and used random-effect meta-analysis to assess the prevalence of blood CrAg positivity (31 studies; 35644 participants) and asymptomatic CM in CrAg-positive participants and the incidence of CM and the all-cause mortality rate in screened participants. The pooled prevalence of blood CrAg-positivity was 6% (95% confidence interval [CI], 5%-7%), and the prevalence of asymptomatic CM in CrAg-positive participants was 33% (95% CI, 21%-45%). The incidence of CM was 21.4% (95% CI, 11.6%-34.4%) without preemptive fluconazole and 5.7% (95% CI, 3.0%-9.7%) with preemptive fluconazole therapy initiated at 800 mg/d. In CrAg-positive participants, postscreening lumbar puncture before initiating preemptive fluconazole at 800 mg/d further reduced the incidence of CM to null and showed some survival benefits. However, the all-cause mortality rate remained significantly higher in CrAg-positive than in CrAg-negative participants (risk ratio, 2.2; 95% CI, 1.7-2.9; P < .001).
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Affiliation(s)
- Elvis Temfack
- Internal Medicine Unit, Douala General Hospital, Cameroon.,Institut Pasteur of Paris, CNRS, Molecular Mycology Unit UMR 2000, France
| | - Jean Joel Bigna
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Centre Pasteur of Cameroon, Yaoundé
| | - Henry N Luma
- Internal Medicine Unit, Douala General Hospital, Cameroon
| | - Rene Spijker
- Cochrane Netherlands, Julius Centre for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Centre Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Graeme Meintjes
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine and Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Joseph N Jarvis
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom.,Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership.,Botswana-UPenn Partnership, Gaborone
| | - Françoise Dromer
- Institut Pasteur of Paris, CNRS, Molecular Mycology Unit UMR 2000, France
| | - Thomas Harrison
- Institute of Infection and Immunity, St. George's University of London, United Kingdom
| | - Jérémie F Cohen
- INSERM UMR 1153 and Department of Pediatrics, Necker Hospital, AP-HP, Paris Descartes University.,Paris Descartes University, Necker Pasteur Center for Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Hôpital Necker Enfants malades, AP-HP, IHU Imagine, France
| | - Olivier Lortholary
- Institut Pasteur of Paris, CNRS, Molecular Mycology Unit UMR 2000, France.,Paris Descartes University, Necker Pasteur Center for Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Hôpital Necker Enfants malades, AP-HP, IHU Imagine, France
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10
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Ford N, Meintjes G, Calmy A, Bygrave H, Migone C, Vitoria M, Penazzato M, Vojnov L, Doherty M. Managing Advanced HIV Disease in a Public Health Approach. Clin Infect Dis 2019. [PMID: 29514232 PMCID: PMC5850613 DOI: 10.1093/cid/cix1139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
In 2017, the World Health Organization (WHO) published guidelines for the management of advanced human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) disease within a public health approach. Recent data suggest that more than a third of people starting antiretroviral therapy (ART) do so with advanced HIV disease, and an increasing number of patients re-present to care at an advanced stage of HIV disease following a period of disengagement from care. These guidelines recommend a standardized package of care for adults, adolescents, and children, based on the leading causes of morbidity and mortality: tuberculosis, severe bacterial infections, cryptococcal meningitis, toxoplasmosis, and Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia. A package of targeted interventions to reduce mortality and morbidity was recommended, based on results of 2 recent randomized trials that both showed a mortality reduction associated with delivery of a simplified intervention package. Taking these results and existing recommendations into consideration, WHO recommends that a package of care be offered to those presenting with advanced HIV disease; depending on age and CD4 cell count, the package may include opportunistic infection screening and prophylaxis, including fluconazole preemptive therapy for those who are cryptococcal antigen positive and without evidence of meningitis. Rapid ART initiation and intensified adherence interventions should also be proposed to everyone presenting with advanced HIV disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan Ford
- HIV Department, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Graeme Meintjes
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Infectious Diseases Research in Africa, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine.,Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Alexandra Calmy
- Division of Infectious Diseases, HIV Unit, Department of Internal Medicine Specialties, Geneva University Hospitals and Faculty of Medicine, Switzerland
| | - Helen Bygrave
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Southern Africa Medical Unit, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Chantal Migone
- HIV Department, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Marco Vitoria
- HIV Department, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Lara Vojnov
- HIV Department, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Meg Doherty
- HIV Department, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
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11
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Re-thinking Linkage to Care in the Era of Universal Test and Treat: Insights from Implementation and Behavioral Science for Achieving the Second 90. AIDS Behav 2019; 23:120-128. [PMID: 31161462 PMCID: PMC6773672 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-019-02541-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
To successfully link to care, persons living with HIV must negotiate a complex series of processes from HIV diagnosis through initial engagement with HIV care systems and providers. Despite the complexity involved, linkage to care is often oversimplified and portrayed as a single referral step. In this article, we offer a new conceptual framework for linkage to care, tailored to the current universal test and treat era that presents linkage to care as its own nuanced pathway within the larger HIV care cascade. Conceptualizing linkage to care in this way may help better identify and specify processes posing a barrier to linkage, and allow for the development of targeted implementation and behavioral science-based approaches to address them. Such approaches are likely to be most relevant to programmatic and clinical settings with limited resources and high HIV burden.
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12
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Wake RM, Jarvis JN, Harrison TS, Govender NP. Brief Report: Point of Care Cryptococcal Antigen Screening: Pipetting Finger-Prick Blood Improves Performance of Immunomycologics Lateral Flow Assay. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2018; 78:574-578. [PMID: 29771787 PMCID: PMC6381996 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000001721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cryptococcal antigen (CrAg) screening at the point of care could improve cryptococcal meningitis prevention where laboratory resources are limited. We evaluated the accuracy of Immunomycologics (IMMY, Norman, OK) CrAg lateral flow assay (LFA) using different techniques at point of care. SETTING Two tertiary-level hospitals in Johannesburg and a community health clinic in Soweto, South Africa. METHODS A case-control diagnostic validation study and a prospective clinic-based implementation study using the IMMY CrAg LFA on finger-prick blood. Accuracy, using direct application of LFA to sample, or pipette to transfer sample to diluent, and reading after 10 and 20 minutes, was compared with laboratory-based plasma testing. RESULTS The validation study tested 64 CrAg-positive and 152 CrAg-negative patients with no symptoms or signs of meningitis, identified by routine laboratory screening, recruited by convenience sampling. Consecutively diagnosed HIV-infected adults (n = 654) were included in the implementation study. Sensitivity was 82% and 20% when the LFA was read 10 minutes after direct application to finger-prick blood in the validation and implementation studies, respectively. Using a pipette to transfer blood and reading after 20 minutes improved sensitivity to 100%, while retaining 100% specificity, in both studies. CONCLUSIONS Although the IMMY CrAg LFA performs well when applied directly to finger-prick blood for diagnosing cryptococcal meningitis, this technique may not provide adequate volume to detect low concentrations of CrAg when screening asymptomatic patients. Using a pipette to transfer larger volumes of blood to diluent before CrAg LFA testing and reading results after 20 minutes is a more reliable point-of-care method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel M Wake
- Centre for Healthcare-Associated Infections, Antimicrobial Resistance and Mycoses (CHARM), National Institute for Communicable Diseases, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Institute for Infection & Immunity, St George's University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Joseph N Jarvis
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Botswana-UPenn Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Thomas S Harrison
- Institute for Infection & Immunity, St George's University of London, London, United Kingdom
- Clinical Infection Unit, St George's Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nelesh P Govender
- Centre for Healthcare-Associated Infections, Antimicrobial Resistance and Mycoses (CHARM), National Institute for Communicable Diseases, Johannesburg, South Africa
- School of Pathology, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Division of Medical Microbiology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Ousley J, Niyibizi AA, Wanjala S, Vandenbulcke A, Kirubi B, Omwoyo W, Price J, Salumu L, Szumilin E, Spiers S, van Cutsem G, Mashako M, Mangana F, Moudarichirou R, Harrison R, Kalwangila T, Lumowo G, Lambert V, Maman D. High Proportions of Patients With Advanced HIV Are Antiretroviral Therapy Experienced: Hospitalization Outcomes From 2 Sub-Saharan African Sites. Clin Infect Dis 2018; 66:S126-S131. [PMID: 29514239 PMCID: PMC5850537 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciy103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) remains an important cause of hospitalization and death in low- and middle- income countries. Yet morbidity and in-hospital mortality patterns remain poorly characterized, with prior antiretroviral therapy (ART) exposure and treatment failure status largely unknown. Methods We studied HIV-infected inpatients aged ≥13 years from cohorts in Kenya and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), assessing clinical and demographic characteristics and hospitalization outcomes. Kenyan inpatients were prospectively enrolled during hospitalization; identical retrospective data were extracted for Congolese patients meeting the study criteria using routine medical information. Results Among 338 HIV-infected patients in Kenya and 411 in DRC, 83.7% (95% confidence interval [CI], 79.4%-87.3%) and 97.3% (95% CI, 95.2%-98.5%), were admitted with advanced disease (defined as CD4 <200 cells/µL or World Health Organization stage 3/4 illness). Among inpatients with advanced HIV, 35.4% and 21.7% were ART-naive at admission. Patients under care had a median time of 44.1 (interquartile range [IQR], 18.4-90.5) months and 55.9 (IQR, 28.1-99.6) months on treatment; 17.2% (95% CI, 13.5%-21.6%) and 29.6% (95% CI, 25.4%-34.3%) died, 25.9% (95% CI, 16.0%-39.0%) and 22.5% (95% CI, 15.8%-31.0%) of these within 48 hours. Conclusions Across 2 diverse clinical contexts in sub-Saharan Africa, advanced HIV inpatients were frequently admitted with low CD4 counts, often failing first-line ART. Earlier identification of treatment failure and rapid switching to second-line ART are needed.
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14
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Ford N, Shubber Z, Jarvis JN, Chiller T, Greene G, Migone C, Vitoria M, Doherty M, Meintjes G. CD4 Cell Count Threshold for Cryptococcal Antigen Screening of HIV-Infected Individuals: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Clin Infect Dis 2018; 66:S152-S159. [PMID: 29514236 PMCID: PMC5850628 DOI: 10.1093/cid/cix1143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Current guidelines recommend screening all people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLHIV) who have a CD4 count ≤100 cells/µL for cryptococcal antigen (CrAg) to identify those patients who could benefit from preemptive fluconazole treatment prior to the onset of meningitis. We conducted a systematic review to assess the prevalence of CrAg positivity at different CD4 cell counts. Methods We searched 4 databases and abstracts from 3 conferences up to 1 September 2017 for studies reporting prevalence of CrAg positivity according to CD4 cell count strata. Prevalence estimates were pooled using random effects models. Results Sixty studies met our inclusion criteria. The pooled prevalence of cryptococcal antigenemia was 6.5% (95% confidence interval [CI], 5.7%-7.3%; 54 studies) among patients with CD4 count ≤100 cells/µL and 2.0% (95% CI, 1.2%-2.7%; 21 studies) among patients with CD4 count 101-200 cells/µL. Twenty-one studies provided sufficient information to compare CrAg prevalence per strata; overall, 18.6% (95% CI, 15.4%-22.2%) of the CrAg-positive cases identified at ≤200 cells/µL (n = 11823) were identified among individuals with a CD4 count 101-200 cells/µL. CrAg prevalence was higher among inpatients (9.8% [95% CI, 4.0%-15.5%]) compared with outpatients (6.3% [95% CI, 5.3%-7.4%]). Conclusions The findings of this review support current recommendations to screen all PLHIV who have a CD4 count ≤100 cells/µL for CrAg and suggest that screening may be considered at CD4 cell count ≤200 cells/µL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan Ford
- HIV Department, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Zara Shubber
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College London, United Kingdom
| | - Joseph N Jarvis
- Botswana-UPenn Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
- Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom
| | - Tom Chiller
- Mycotic Diseases Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Greg Greene
- Mycotic Diseases Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Chantal Migone
- HIV Department, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Marco Vitoria
- HIV Department, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Meg Doherty
- HIV Department, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Graeme Meintjes
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Infectious Diseases Research in Africa, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine South Africa
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, South Africa
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