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Queiroz JHFDS, Barbosa MDS, Perez EVDO, da Silva BO, de Souza GHDA, Gonçalves CCM, Croda J, Simionatto S. Seroprevalence of Treponema pallidum infection among high-risk populations from Brazil. Acta Trop 2024; 256:107255. [PMID: 38761835 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2024.107255] [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: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
Syphilis is a significant public health concern worldwide. According to the 2020 estimates, nearly 7.1 million new cases of syphilis have been reported globally, with over 30 % of these cases reported from American nations, particularly Brazil. Concerns have been raised regarding the susceptibility of specific groups to syphilis due to challenges and vulnerabilities that place these groups at a higher risk of infections or complications in the treatment outcomes. The present study aimed to compare the seroprevalence and the factors associated with syphilis among such high-risk groups. The study was designed as a cross-sectional one and was conducted with pregnant women, people living with HIV (PLHIV), people living with tuberculosis (PLTB), indigenous and healthy populations in Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. The study was conducted between June 2019 and August 2022, during which the included patients were subjected to treponemal and non-treponemal serological assays. The study also included a survey conducted through a self-reported questionnaire to collect information regarding the participants' demographics and sexual behaviors. A total of 550 samples were collected, with 110 participants in each of the five groups. The results of the study revealed that the seroprevalence of Treponema pallidum infection in pregnant women, PLHIV, PLTB, indigenous and healthy populations of the study region was 10 % (n = 11/110), 41.81 % (n = 46/110), 17.27 % (n = 19/110), 5.45 % (n = 6/110), and 8.18 % (n = 9/110), respectively. Homosexual orientation (p = 0.04) and a history of sexually transmitted infection (STI) (p = 0.01) were associated with the seroprevalence of T. pallidum infection in PLHIV. However, no such associations were noted in the remaining four groups. The seroprevalence of T. pallidum infection was observed to vary significantly among the different high-risk groups, which highlighted the persistent concern of syphilis, particularly among vulnerable populations. These findings underscore the significance of focused interventions and public health strategies customized to the specific requirements of each of the groups evaluated in the present study to decrease the number of cases of syphilis and thereby prevent future complications in patients with other serious infections.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marcelo Dos Santos Barbosa
- Federal University of Grande Dourados - UFGD, Health Sciences Research Laboratory, Dourados, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
| | | | - Bruna Oliveira da Silva
- Federal University of Grande Dourados - UFGD, Health Sciences Research Laboratory, Dourados, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
| | | | | | - Julio Croda
- School of Medicine, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, Brazil; Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Campo Grande, Brazil; Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale University School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Simone Simionatto
- Federal University of Grande Dourados - UFGD, Health Sciences Research Laboratory, Dourados, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil.
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de Almeida SM, Tresoldi Neto J, Rocha A, Medeiros A, Gonçalves D, Guimarães F. Cerebrospinal Fluid Biomarkers of Symptomatic Neurosyphilis in People With HIV Compared with Uninfected Individuals. J Neurovirol 2024:10.1007/s13365-024-01199-7. [PMID: 38472642 DOI: 10.1007/s13365-024-01199-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
We evaluated the diagnostic clinical performance characteristics (DCPC) of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) total protein (TP), white blood cell count (WBC), and lactate (LA) with different cutoff points as adjunct biomarkers of confirmed or presumptive symptomatic neurosyphilis (NS) and the impact of HIV infection. From 5,640 participants who underwent lumbar punctures, 236 participants were included, and classified as either people with HIV (PWH) or people without HIV (PWoH) according to the CDC criteria for confirmed NS (n = 42), presumptive NS (n = 74), systemic syphilis (SS) (n = 38), serological diagnosis of syphilis (n = 18), PWH without SS and NS (n = 10), and negative control (n = 72). In PWoH, for presumptive NS, the combination of CSF TP > 45 mg/dL and/or WBC > 5.0 cells/mm3 is valuable for screening, whereas in PWH, it is not recommended for either screening or case-finding NS, however the DCPC were better in the suppressed group. In PWoH, the value of CSF TP > 45 mg/dL is adequate for both screening and confirmation of presumptive NS, subject to prevalence. For WBC count > 20 cell/mm3, the positive predictive value (PPV) of the test is almost perfect, suggesting a confirmatory test. In PWH, CSF TP is an inadequate marker of NS. The WBC count, with cutoffs of > 10 or > 20 cells/mm3, was moderately applicable for screening.As conclusions: CSF WBC count and TP showed distinct DCPC in confirmed or presumptive NS, better in the former. These biomarkers could be included for presumptive NS diagnosis. DCPC of these biomarkers for the diagnosis of NS is greatly affected by HIV co-infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sérgio Monteiro de Almeida
- Virology Section, Hospital de Clínicas, Universidade Federal Do Paraná, Setor Análises Clínicas Rua Padre Camargo, Curitiba, PR, 80060-240, Brazil.
- Neuroinfection Outclinic, Hospital de Clínicas, Universidade Federal Do Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil.
| | - José Tresoldi Neto
- Virology Section, Hospital de Clínicas, Universidade Federal Do Paraná, Setor Análises Clínicas Rua Padre Camargo, Curitiba, PR, 80060-240, Brazil
- Neuroinfection Outclinic, Hospital de Clínicas, Universidade Federal Do Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Amanda Rocha
- Virology Section, Hospital de Clínicas, Universidade Federal Do Paraná, Setor Análises Clínicas Rua Padre Camargo, Curitiba, PR, 80060-240, Brazil
- Neuroinfection Outclinic, Hospital de Clínicas, Universidade Federal Do Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Ana Medeiros
- Virology Section, Hospital de Clínicas, Universidade Federal Do Paraná, Setor Análises Clínicas Rua Padre Camargo, Curitiba, PR, 80060-240, Brazil
- Neuroinfection Outclinic, Hospital de Clínicas, Universidade Federal Do Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Debora Gonçalves
- Virology Section, Hospital de Clínicas, Universidade Federal Do Paraná, Setor Análises Clínicas Rua Padre Camargo, Curitiba, PR, 80060-240, Brazil
- Neuroinfection Outclinic, Hospital de Clínicas, Universidade Federal Do Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Fausto Guimarães
- Virology Section, Hospital de Clínicas, Universidade Federal Do Paraná, Setor Análises Clínicas Rua Padre Camargo, Curitiba, PR, 80060-240, Brazil
- Neuroinfection Outclinic, Hospital de Clínicas, Universidade Federal Do Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
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Navarrete J, Saavedra-Portales S. Syphilis for dermatologists: Current concepts. Clin Dermatol 2024; 42:134-154. [PMID: 38142790 DOI: 10.1016/j.clindermatol.2023.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
Dermatologists are familiar with the classic aspects of syphilis. Our objective in this update is to display novel features of sexually acquired syphilis, its pathophysiology, natural history, atypical clinical variants, skin of color, clinical pearls, and prospects. Textbook knowledge, congenital syphilis, epidemiology, and historical data are excluded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Navarrete
- Department of Dermatology, Clínica Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile; Department of Dermatology and Sexually Transmitted Infections Clinic, Hospital Padre Hurtado, Santiago, Chile.
| | - Stephanie Saavedra-Portales
- Department of Dermatology and Sexually Transmitted Infections Clinic, Hospital San Juan de Dios, Santiago, Chile
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Hu YT, Wu JB, Zhuang MH, Zhao YY, Lin Y, Jiang XY, Liu LL. A 4-fold or greater decrease in TPPA titers may indicate effective BPG treatment in primary syphilis. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 127:111333. [PMID: 38091829 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.111333] [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: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the majority of clinical environments, the treponema pallidum particle agglutination (TPPA) test is known for its higher specificity compared to the rapid plasma reagin (RPR) test and is commonly employed for the diagnosis of syphilis, but their use for serological monitoring after syphilis therapy is controversial. OBJECTIVES We aim to evaluate whether the TPPA titers is suitable for monitoring syphilis treatment efficacy. METHODS At first, 232 patients with primary syphilis were recruited. Serological testing was performed at baseline (initial visit) and at 6 months (±1 month) after benzathine penicillin G (BPG) treatment. Second, New Zealand white male rabbits were infected with Treponema pallidum (T. pallidum) to evaluate the changes in TPPA titers after BPG therapy. Finally, we compared the TPPA titers in the culture supernatant of rabbit splenocytes stimulated with T. pallidum with or without BPG. RESULTS After 6 months of treatment, 150 (64.7%) of 232 primary syphilis patients achieved serological cure, and 82 (35.3%) had adverse outcomes. Among 110 patients with TPPA titers decreased by more than fourfold, 109 of them were serological cure patients (≥4-fold decrease in RPR titers) (P < 0.0001). In the rabbit model of syphilis, the TPPA titers was significantly decreased in the treatment subgroup (P = 0.016) and remained constant (±2-fold) or increased (≥4-fold) in the nontreatment subgroup. In addition, T. pallidum resulted in a positive TPPA titers in the culture supernatant of splenocytes (median titers was 1: 80), while BPG could directly reduce the TPPA titers in the culture supernatant (median titers was 1: 40) (P = 0.032). CONCLUSIONS A 4-fold or greater decrease in TPPA titers may indicate effective treatment in primary syphilis. Combining TPPA titers with RPR titers results may potentially aid in the early diagnosis of syphilis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Ting Hu
- Center of Clinical Laboratory, Zhongshan Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian Province, China
| | - Jia-Bin Wu
- Laboratory of Basic Medicine, Fuzong Clinical College (The 900th Hospital), Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
| | - Miao-Hui Zhuang
- Xiamen International Travel Health Care Center, Xiamen, Fujian Province, China
| | - Yuan-Yi Zhao
- Center of Clinical Laboratory, Zhongshan Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian Province, China
| | - Yu Lin
- Center of Clinical Laboratory, Zhongshan Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian Province, China
| | - Xiao-Yong Jiang
- Department of Dermatology, Zhongshan Hospital, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian Province, China.
| | - Li-Li Liu
- Center of Clinical Laboratory, Zhongshan Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian Province, China; Xiamen Clinical Laboratory Quality Control Center, Xiamen, Fujian Province, China.
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Wu Y, Lu L, Song X, Liu X, Yang Y, Chen L, Tang J, Han Y, Lv W, Cao W, Li T. Clinical and immunological characteristics of HIV/syphilis co-infected patients following long-term antiretroviral treatment. Front Public Health 2024; 11:1327896. [PMID: 38288435 PMCID: PMC10823526 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1327896] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective This study aims to analyze the efficacy of anti-syphilis treatment and the impact of syphilis events on HIV virology and immunology in HIV/syphilis co-infected patients on long-term antiretroviral therapy (ART) and to investigate the incidence and factors of syphilis recurrence/re-infection/serofast state. The insights derived from this investigation can potentially guide strategies for preventing and managing syphilis and AIDS. Methods A retrospective case-control study was conducted at the AIDS clinic of Peking Union Medical College Hospital from January 2003 to December 2022. The study involved 86 HIV/syphilis co-infected patients and 86 HIV mono-infected patients matched based on age, baseline CD4 + T cell counts, and viral load. We examined the clinical characteristics of HIV/syphilis co-infected patients, evaluated the efficacy of anti-syphilis treatment, and analyzed the dynamic changes in HIV virology and immunology. The Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE) model investigated the factors associated with HIV/syphilis co-infection and syphilis recurrence/reinfection/serofast state. Results Syphilis serofast state was observed in 11.6% (10/86) of HIV/syphilis co-infected patients after treatment, and 33.7% (29/86) had syphilis recurrence or re-infection. The overall effectiveness of syphilis treatment stood at 76.8% (63/82). Notably, the effectiveness of syphilis treatment displayed a significant correlation with baseline syphilis titers exceeding 1:128 (p = 0.003). Over the 10-year follow-up period on ART, the HLA-DR + CD8+/CD8 + % levels in the HIV/syphilis co-infected group were markedly higher than those in the HIV mono-infected group (p < 0.05). However, no significant differences were observed between the two groups regarding HIV viral load, CD4+ T cell counts, CD8+ T cell counts, CD4/CD8 ratio, and CD38 + CD8+/CD8 + % (p > 0.05). GEE analysis model revealed that elevated HLA-DR + CD8+/CD8 + % levels were associated with HIV/syphilis co-infection (OR = 1.026, 95% CI = 1.007-1.046; p = 0.007) and syphilis recurrence/reinfection/serofast state (OR = 1.036, 95% CI = 1.008-1.065; p = 0.012). Conclusion While HIV/syphilis co-infected patients typically receive adequate treatment, the incidence of syphilis recurrence and reinfection remain notably elevated. A heightened HLA-DR + CD8+/CD8+ % is a notable risk factor for HIV/syphilis co-infection and syphilis recurrence/reinfection/serofast state. Therefore, it is advisable to reinforce health education efforts and ensure regular follow-ups for people living with HIV undergoing ART to monitor syphilis infection or increased risk of syphilis infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanni Wu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Lianfeng Lu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaojing Song
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaosheng Liu
- Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ling Chen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jia Tang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yang Han
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Lv
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Cao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Taisheng Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Beijing, China
- State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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Jia DT, Carcamo PM, Diaz MM. Ongoing Healthcare Disparities in neuroHIV: Addressing Gaps in the Care Continuum. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2023; 20:368-378. [PMID: 37999827 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-023-00683-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW We aim to review the neurological complications of HIV and the social, cultural, and economic inequalities that contribute to disparities in neuroHIV care. RECENT FINDINGS Disparities in diagnostics and care of patients with neurological infections and non-infectious conditions associated with HIV in both high-income and low-to-middle-income countries (LMIC) are common. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated these disparities. Factors, such as HIV-related stigma, may deter people from accessing HIV treatment. First-line recommended treatments for neurological infections are not available in many LMICs, leading to inadequate treatment and exposure to agents with more harmful side effect profiles. Access-related factors, such as lack of transportation, lack of health insurance, and inadequate telehealth access, may increase the risk of HIV-related neurological complications. Further research is needed to increase awareness of neurological complications among providers and PWH, and regional guidelines should be considered to better address these complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Tong Jia
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Paloma M Carcamo
- Laboratory of Epidemiology and Public Health, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
- Health Innovation Laboratory, Alexander Von Humboldt Tropical Medicine Institute, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| | - Monica M Diaz
- Department of Neurology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
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Huang Z, Liu J, Lin K, Yang F, Yan Y, Xie Y, Tan Z, Liu Q, Li J, Wang L, Zhou Y, Yao G, Huang S, Ye C, Cen M, Liao X, Xu L, Zhang C, Yan Y, Huang L, Li Y, Yang Y, Fu X, Jiang H. Factors Associated with Immediate Antiretroviral Therapy Initiation Among Newly Diagnosed People Living with HIV in Guangdong Province, China. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2023; 37:561-565. [PMID: 38096117 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2023.0233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoqian Huang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jun Liu
- Department of HIV/AIDS Control and Prevention, Guangdong Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kaihao Lin
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fang Yang
- Department of HIV/AIDS Control and Prevention, Guangdong Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yao Yan
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yingqian Xie
- Department of HIV/AIDS Control and Prevention, Guangdong Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhimin Tan
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qicai Liu
- Supervision Ward, Guangzhou Eighth People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Junbin Li
- Guangdong AIDS and HCV Diagnosis and Treatment Quality Control Center, Guangzhou Eighth People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lihua Wang
- Department of HIV/AIDS Control and Prevention, Jiangmen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Jiangmen, China
| | - Yi Zhou
- Department of HIV/AIDS Control and Prevention, Zhuhai Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Zhuhai, China
| | - Gang Yao
- Department of HIV/AIDS Control and Prevention, Zhuhai Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Zhuhai, China
| | - Shanzi Huang
- Department of HIV/AIDS Control and Prevention, Zhuhai Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Zhuhai, China
| | - Chenglong Ye
- Department of HIV/AIDS Control and Prevention, Yangjiang Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Yangjiang, China
| | - Meixi Cen
- Department of HIV/AIDS Control and Prevention, Yunfu Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Yunfu, China
| | - Xiaowen Liao
- Department of HIV/AIDS Control and Prevention, Yunfu Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Yunfu, China
| | - Lu Xu
- Department of HIV/AIDS Control and Prevention, Shantou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shantou, China
| | - Chi Zhang
- Department of HIV/AIDS Control and Prevention, Shantou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shantou, China
| | - Yubin Yan
- Department of HIV/AIDS Control and Prevention, Huizhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Huizhou, China
| | - Lin Huang
- Department of HIV/AIDS Control and Prevention, Huizhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Huizhou, China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of HIV/AIDS Control and Prevention, Guangdong Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi Yang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaobing Fu
- Department of HIV/AIDS Control and Prevention, Guangdong Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hongbo Jiang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
- Centre for Clinical Research, Epidimiology, Modelling and Evaluation, Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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Kelgaonkar A, Patel A, Tyagi M, Padhi TR, Basu S, McCluskey P. Beaded Pearls Appearance in Syphilitic Chorioretinitis. Ocul Immunol Inflamm 2023; 31:1328-1332. [PMID: 36888981 DOI: 10.1080/09273948.2023.2185265] [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: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To report an atypical case of bilateral syphilitic chorioretinitis. METHODS A case report. RESULTS A young male presented with bilateral pigmentary retinal changes along with multifocal chorioretinal lesions along the blood vessels giving a "beaded pearl" appearance. He was a hitherto undiagnosed case of human immunodeficiency virus infection and was diagnosed to have syphilis. He had a favourable visual and anatomical outcome following treatment. CONCLUSION Multifocal chorioretinal lesions along blood vessels forming a "beaded pearls" appearance can be a rare and unique presentation of syphilis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anup Kelgaonkar
- L V Prasad Eye Institute, Mithu Tulsi Chanrai Campus, Bhubaneswar, India
| | - Anamika Patel
- LV Prasad Eye Institute, GMR Varalaxmi Campus, Visakhapatnam, India
| | - Mudit Tyagi
- LV Prasad Eye Institute, Kallam Anji Reddy Campus, Hyderabad, India
| | - Tapas Ranjan Padhi
- L V Prasad Eye Institute, Mithu Tulsi Chanrai Campus, Bhubaneswar, India
| | - Soumyava Basu
- LV Prasad Eye Institute, Kallam Anji Reddy Campus, Hyderabad, India
| | - Peter McCluskey
- Save Sight Institute, The Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Sifuentes Rentería SE, Rodríguez Badillo P, Valdez González T. Multimodal Imaging Features of the Posterior Segment in Ocular Syphilis and HIV Co-Infection: A Single Center Case Series. Ocul Immunol Inflamm 2023:1-7. [PMID: 37590885 DOI: 10.1080/09273948.2023.2244073] [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: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To analyze the frequent multimodal imaging features in posterior syphilitic uveitis. PURPOSE Syphilis infection has re-emerged as a global health problem. Multimodal imaging approach has been proposed for diagnosis and follow-up; there are not previous reports dedicated to the anatomic and visual outcomes in patients diagnosed with ocular syphilis and concomitant HIV infection. METHODS All demographic information was recovered; a complete ophthalmological examination and multimodal imaging evaluation (retinal fluorescein angiography (FA), autofluorescence (AF), optical coherence tomography (OCT)) were performed on initial visit and 1 month after antibiotic therapy. RESULTS 18 eyes of 9 patients were included. The most frequent features observed were: Hyperfluorescence on optic disk on FA, Hyperautofluorescence punctate pattern on AF, Vitritis on SD-OCT. After treatment, there was a functional and anatomical improvement. CONCLUSION Ocular syphilis represents a diagnostic challenge. Multimodal imaging approach allows identification of structural changes, follow-up and early detection of complications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paulina Rodríguez Badillo
- Inflammatory Ocular Diseases Department, Foundation Hospital Nuestra Señora de la Luz (FHNSL), Mexico City, Mexico
- Ophthalmology Department, Clinica Especializada Condesa - Iztapalapa (CECI), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Teresa Valdez González
- Inflammatory Ocular Diseases Department, Foundation Hospital Nuestra Señora de la Luz (FHNSL), Mexico City, Mexico
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Chan CP, Kwan TH, Wong NS, Poon CM, Lee SS. Temporal Changes in Sexually Transmitted Infections in a Cohort of Men Who Have Sex with Men Living with HIV: Sex Partner Seeking and Behavioral Correlates. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2023:10.1007/s10508-023-02598-3. [PMID: 37099189 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-023-02598-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
With "undetectable equals untransmittable," continued engagement in condomless sex has prolonged STI risk in people living with HIV. This study examined the pattern and relationship between STI diagnosis and sex partner-seeking practice over time in a cohort of men who have sex with men (MSM) attending the HIV specialist clinic in Hong Kong. Participants' STI diagnosis record since HIV diagnosis was retrieved and their frequency of seeking sex partners (A) before, (B) after HIV diagnosis, and (C) following extended period (5-10 years), through eight different settings, was assessed in two rounds of survey, along with their risk behavioral profile. Multivariable regression models were employed to study the factors associated with STI diagnosis and partner-seeking frequency, while their temporal relationships over the three time points (A-C) were examined using cross-lagged panel model. Of 345 subjects recruited, STI incidence dropped from 252 to 187 cases/1000 person-years during 2015-2019. Totally 139/212 MSM (66%) had ≥ 1 episode of STI within the 10-year period after HIV diagnosis, giving an 11-20% annual prevalence. The reduced frequency of seeking sex partner was well preserved following diagnosis with a rebound specifically noted in the use of mobile application, the patrons of which were more likely to be co-infected with STI in 2019. Chemsex, concurrent partnership, and casual sex were risk factors shared between frequent partner-seeking practice and STI diagnosis. A robust autoregressive effect for partner-seeking frequency was also identified, and which significantly predicted STI risk in the long term. To enhance HIV care, the co-administration of STI/behavioral surveillance should be emphasized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chin Pok Chan
- JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Tsz Ho Kwan
- Stanley Ho Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Ngai Sze Wong
- JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong
- Stanley Ho Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Chin Man Poon
- Stanley Ho Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Shui Shan Lee
- Stanley Ho Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong.
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11
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Prozherin SV, Podymova AS. Delayed positivity of serological reactions in secondary syphilis against the background of severe HIV-induced immunosuppression. VESTNIK DERMATOLOGII I VENEROLOGII 2023. [DOI: 10.25208/vdv1413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent decades, there has been an increase in syphilis associated with HIV infection cases, especially among men who have sex with men. The global prevalence of syphilitic infection among people living with HIV exceeds population rates. Concomitant HIV infection can affect not just the clinical course of syphilis, but also the production of antibodies to Treponema pallidum. In the presence of severe immunodeficiency in patients with HIV infection associated with secondary syphilis, the results of non-treponemal and/or treponemal tests may be false-negative or may become positive at a later date. Such cases are known, they occur infrequently and cause some diagnostic difficulties. The article presents a clinical observation of delayed positivity of serological reactions in secondary syphilis in a 23-year-old HIV-positive man from the authors' practice. The tactic of managing HIV-infected patients with clinical symptoms of syphilis and negative results of serological tests is discussed.
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12
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Blohm A, O'Donnell A, Simmons K, Fitzpatrick C, Williams D, Richardson D. Early syphilis and transient loss of HIV virological control in people living with HIV on antiretroviral therapy. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2023; 37:e441-e442. [PMID: 36178168 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.18627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alice Blohm
- Sexual Health & HIV, University Hospitals Sussex NHS foundation Trust, Brighton, UK
| | - Alice O'Donnell
- Sexual Health & HIV, University Hospitals Sussex NHS foundation Trust, Brighton, UK
| | - Kiersten Simmons
- Sexual Health & HIV, University Hospitals Sussex NHS foundation Trust, Brighton, UK
| | - Colin Fitzpatrick
- Sexual Health & HIV, University Hospitals Sussex NHS foundation Trust, Brighton, UK
| | - Deborah Williams
- Sexual Health & HIV, University Hospitals Sussex NHS foundation Trust, Brighton, UK
| | - Daniel Richardson
- Sexual Health & HIV, University Hospitals Sussex NHS foundation Trust, Brighton, UK.,Brighton & Sussex Medical School, Brighton, UK
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13
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Getaneh Y, Getnet F, Amogne MD, Liao L, Yi F, Shao Y. Burden of hepatitis B virus and syphilis co-infections and its impact on HIV treatment outcome in Ethiopia: nationwide community-based study. Ann Med 2023; 55:2239828. [PMID: 37498806 PMCID: PMC10375928 DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2023.2239828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and syphilis have been the most common co-infections that hinder treatment outcomes and increase early mortality among people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLHIV). In this study, we aimed to determine the burden of HBV and syphilis co-infections and its impact on treatment outcomes among PLHIV in Ethiopia. METHODS We used data from the Ethiopian Population-based HIV Impact Assessment (EPHIA), which was a household-based national survey in 2017/2018. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing was done among 19,136 participants using the national testing algorithm and 662 participants (3.50%) were HIV positives who were further tested for viral hepatitis and syphilis co-infections using HBV surface antigen and Chembio DPP syphilis assay, respectively. Viral load, CD4 count and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) were done to measure HIV treatment outcomes. Descriptive statistics were used to determine the burden of co-infections and a logistic regression model to evaluate the determinants of co-infections using STATA V17.0. RESULTS Overall prevalence of HBV and syphilis co-infection was 5.5% and 2.2%, respectively. HBV and syphilis (double co-infection) was 5.9%. The highest prevalence of HBV co-infection was observed among 10-19 years age group (12.9%) and male participants (7.44%) while the highest syphilis co-infection was among people aged ≥50 years (3.5%) followed by age groups 40-49 (3.3%) and 10-19 years (3.2%). Syphilis co-infection was higher among males (5.2%) compared to females (1.1%). After adjusted regression analysis, HBV co-infected PLHIV had higher odds of virologic failure (AOR (95% confidence interval (CI)) = 6.3 (4.2-14.3)), immunosuppression (CD4 count < 500 cells/mm3) (AOR (95%CI) = 2.1(1.3-4.9)) and inflammation (hsCRP >10 mg/dL) (AOR (95%CI) = 9.2(4.3-14.6)). Immunosuppression was also significantly higher among syphilis co-infected PLHIV (AOR (95%CI) = 3.4 (1.3-5.2)). CONCLUSIONS Burden of HBV and syphilis co-infections is high particularly among male and adolescent PLHIV and these co-infections hinder virologic and immunologic outcome in Ethiopia. Hence, the program shall enhance HBV and syphilis testing and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yimam Getaneh
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Fentabil Getnet
- Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Takemi Program in International Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Minilik Demissie Amogne
- Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Lund University, School of Public Health, Lund, Sweden
| | - Lingjie Liao
- State Key Laboratory for Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Feng Yi
- State Key Laboratory for Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Yiming Shao
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory for Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
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14
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Syphilis Infections, Reinfections and Serological Response in a Large Italian Sexually Transmitted Disease Centre: A Monocentric Retrospective Study. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11247499. [PMID: 36556115 PMCID: PMC9781386 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11247499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Syphilis infection does not confer definitive and protective immunity against reinfection, and crucial aspects of repeated episodes of syphilis are far from being understood, especially among people living with HIV (PLWH). Methods: In order to explore the burden of syphilis in a large cohort of HIV-negative patients and PLWH, this retrospective study describes the demographics, clinical presentation and treatment outcome of patients with syphilis treated at our clinic from 2013 to 2021. Results: Within the study period, 1859 syphilis episodes (827, 44.5% first infections and 1032, 55.5% reinfections) were recorded. A total of 663 patients, of whom 347 (52%) had PLWH, were considered. Syphilis was mostly diagnosed in males (77%) and European (79%) patients. More than half of syphilis episodes were recorded during the late latent stage (64%) or during follow-up/screening visits for other diseases, while symptomatic stages led to a diagnosis in almost half of HIV-negative patients (p < 0.001). PLWH with syphilis infection were predominantly homo/bisexual (p < 0.001). A significantly higher rate of syphilis reinfection was observed in PLWH, who also demonstrated a higher range of subsequent episodes. The serofast state was found to be similar at the 6- and 12-month follow-up visits. The multivariate analysis carried out in the HIV-positive group showed that an RPR titre >1:16 was an independent predictor for serological non-response. Conclusions: Syphilis reinfections are predominantly diagnosed in HIV-positive MSM. The high rate of asymptomatic presentation among PLWH supports the role of periodical syphilis screening. In PLWH, the only baseline factor associated with an increased risk of non-response was an RPR titre >1:16, while assessment at 12 months after treatment increased the possibility of detecting a serological response, indicating that PLWH have a slower serological response to treatment.
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15
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Barba A, Bati F, Tura JB, Addis B, Abrahim S. Magnitude and Determinants of Syphilis and HIV Co-Infection Among Female Sex Workers in Ethiopia: Evidence from Respondent Driven Samples, 2019-2020. HIV AIDS (Auckl) 2022; 14:473-485. [PMID: 36337317 PMCID: PMC9635310 DOI: 10.2147/hiv.s384213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Female sex workers (FSWs) play an important role in transmitting Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and syphilis from high-risk groups to the general population. Syphilis and HIV infections are generally more prevalent among FSWs. However, in Ethiopia, up-to-date evidence about Syphilis-HIV co-infections among FSWs was lacking. Objective To determine the magnitude and determinants of Syphilis-HIV co-infection among FSWs in Ethiopia, 2019-2020. Methods A cross-sectional HIV and other sexually transmitted infections Bio-Behavioral Survey (HSBS) was conducted using respondent-driven sampling (RDS) among 6,085 FSWs in Ethiopia from August 2019 to January 2020. Data was collected, merged with laboratory data, and analyzed in R software using the RDS package. The odds ratio was calculated at 95% CI to measure associations between the dependent and independent variables. Variables that yield p<0.25 in univariate analysis were included in multivariate analysis. In multivariate analysis, variables with p<0.05 were declared as statistically significant. Results were presented in frequency tables and charts. Results The prevalence of Syphilis-HIV co-infection among FSWs was 2.9% [95% CI=2.6-3.2]. Age of the FSWs (15-19 years old (AOR=0.03; 95% CI=0.01-0.12)), non-formal educational level (AOR=3.18; 95% CI=1.78-5.68), monthly income <2,500 ETB (AOR=3.05; 95% CI=1.45-6.42), major depression (AOR=1.85; 95% CI=1.18-2.89), forced first sex experience (AOR=1.71; 95% CI=1.2-2.44), condom breakage (AOR=1.62; 95% CI=1.14-2.30), Hepatitis B seropositivity (AOR=2.32; 95% CI=1.10-4.90), and Hepatitis C seropositivity (AOR=5.37; 95% CI=1.70-16.93) were strongly associated with Syphilis-HIV co-infection among FSWs in Ethiopia. Conclusion The prevalence of Syphilis-HIV co-infection among FSWs in Ethiopia was high. To ward off Syphilis-HIV co-infection among FSWs, a special FSWs-targeted HIV and Syphilis/STIs prevention program and treatment approach needs to be devised. An outreach approach to address the sexual and reproductive health needs of FSWs has to be part of the strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ammar Barba
- Director General Office, Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia,Correspondence: Ammar Barba, Director General Office, Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Tel +251 925 229 205, Email
| | - Fayiso Bati
- Tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS Research Directorate, Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Jaleta Bulti Tura
- Tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS Research Directorate, Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Beza Addis
- Director General Office, Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Saro Abrahim
- Tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS Research Directorate, Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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16
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Christmann CR, Figg WD, Chatterjee R, Lavere PF, Mehta N. Tertiary Syphilis Masquerading as Oropharyngeal Cancer. Cureus 2022; 14:e28912. [PMID: 36237821 PMCID: PMC9547047 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.28912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Syphilis is re-emerging in the United States. Treponema pallidum, the spirochete bacterium responsible for syphilis, has immunoevasive properties that facilitate pathogenesis and widespread tissue involvement. Host immune status, particularly the presence of HIV/AIDS, can influence the presentation and severity of the disease. Patients co-infected with HIV and syphilis may develop atypical lesions, including those involving the oropharynx. Any immunocompromised patient with tongue lesions and lymphadenopathy is presumed to have a wide differential diagnosis, and tissue sampling with histopathologic analysis is indicated. We present a patient with gumma of the tongue as the initial manifestation of tertiary syphilis.
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17
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Solaimalai D, Gupta A, George L, Manesh A, Karthik R, Sathishkumar D, Peter CVD, Varghese GM, Pulimood SA, Kannangai R, Prakash JAJ. Upward trends of syphilis in the non-pregnant adults: A six-year report on clinical and epidemiological profile of syphilis from a tertiary care center, India. Front Public Health 2022; 10:908591. [PMID: 35958862 PMCID: PMC9359669 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.908591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Since 2000, a resurgence of syphilis has been noted in many developed and developing countries, especially among men who have sex with men (MSM). Incidence and prevalence of syphilis in pregnant women have been reduced drastically by mandatory screening in early pregnancy. Insufficient data in other populations especially from developing countries limit targeted public health interventions. This study aimed to describe the clinical and epidemiological profile of serologically confirmed syphilis cases among the non-pregnant high-risk group reporting to a tertiary care center in Southern India. A retrospective study was carried out in a tertiary care center in Southern India for 6 years from 2015 to 2020. A total of 265 serologically confirmed syphilis patients were included. A statistically significant increase in positivity from 0.52 to 2.1% was observed in this study (2015 to 2020). Among risk factors, high-risk behavior with multiple heterosexual partners was the commonest (51.3%), followed by marital partners who tested positive (9.4%) and MSM (7.5%). The majority of the patients were diagnosed at the latent stage (79%), followed by secondary syphilis (10%) and tertiary syphilis (8%). A quarter of patients (23%) were coinfected with HIV. Serological non-responsiveness was more common among HIV infected (47 vs. 24%). Sixteen had neurosyphilis and six had ocular involvement. HIV co-infection complicated 50% (8/16) of neurosyphilis patients. Syphilis is still prevalent, especially in high-risk groups including those are attending STI clinics. Further prospective multicentric studies are needed to identify and implement public health measures.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ankan Gupta
- Department of Dermatology, Christian Medical College, Vellore, India
| | - Leni George
- Department of Dermatology, Christian Medical College, Vellore, India
| | - Abi Manesh
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Christian Medical College, Vellore, India
| | - Rajiv Karthik
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Christian Medical College, Vellore, India
| | | | - C. V Dincy Peter
- Department of Dermatology, Christian Medical College, Vellore, India
| | - George M Varghese
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Christian Medical College, Vellore, India
| | | | - Rajesh Kannangai
- Department of Clinical Virology, Christian Medical College, Vellore, India
| | - John AJ Prakash
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Christian Medical College, Vellore, India
- *Correspondence: John AJ Prakash
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