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Katende A, Roos L, Urio VZ, Mahundi E, Myovela V, Mnzava D, Mlula C, Chitimbwa C, Raphael DM, Gingo W, Franzeck FC, Paris DH, Elzi L, Weisser M, Rohacek M. Recovery of left ventricular systolic function in peripartum cardiomyopathy: an observational study from rural Tanzania. BMC Cardiovasc Disord 2024; 24:243. [PMID: 38724901 PMCID: PMC11080156 DOI: 10.1186/s12872-024-03906-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to evaluate the recovery rate of the left ventricular systolic function of women diagnosed with peripartum cardiomyopathy receiving specialized care in rural Tanzania. METHODS In this observational study, women diagnosed with peripartum cardiomyopathy at a referral center in rural Tanzania between December 2015 and September 2021 were included. Women diagnosed between February and September 2021 were followed prospectively, those diagnosed between December 2015 and January 2021 were tracked back for a follow-up echocardiography. All participants received a clinical examination, a comprehensive echocardiogram, and a prescription of guideline-directed medical therapy. The primary outcome was recovery of the left ventricular systolic function (left ventricular ejection fraction > 50%). RESULTS Median age of the 110 participants was 28.5 years (range 17-45). At enrolment, 49 (45%) participants were already on cardiac medication, 50 (45%) had severe eccentric hypertrophy of the left ventricle, and the median left ventricular ejection fraction was 30% (range 15-46). After a median follow-up of 8.98 months (IQR 5.72-29.37), 61 (55%) participants were still on cardiac medication. Full recovery of the left ventricular systolic function was diagnosed in 76 (69%, 95% CI 59.6-77.6%) participants. In the multivariate analysis, a higher left ventricular ejection fraction at baseline was positively associated with full recovery (each 5% increase; OR 1.7, 95% CI 1.10-2.62, p = 0.012), while higher age was inversely associated (each 10 years increase; OR 0.40, 95% CI 0.19-0.82, p = 0.012). CONCLUSION Left ventricular systolic function recovered completely in 69% of study participants with peripartum cardiomyopathy from rural Tanzania under specialized care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Katende
- St. Francis Regional Referral Hospital, Ifakara, United Republic of Tanzania
- Ifakara Health Institute, Ifakara, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Laurine Roos
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Victor Z Urio
- St. Francis Regional Referral Hospital, Ifakara, United Republic of Tanzania
- Ifakara Health Institute, Ifakara, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Evance Mahundi
- St. Francis Regional Referral Hospital, Ifakara, United Republic of Tanzania
- Ifakara Health Institute, Ifakara, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Victor Myovela
- St. Francis Regional Referral Hospital, Ifakara, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Dorcas Mnzava
- Ifakara Health Institute, Ifakara, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Chipegwa Mlula
- St. Francis Regional Referral Hospital, Ifakara, United Republic of Tanzania
| | | | - Dominick M Raphael
- St. Francis Regional Referral Hospital, Ifakara, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Winfrid Gingo
- St. Francis Regional Referral Hospital, Ifakara, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Fabian C Franzeck
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Research and analytics services, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Daniel H Paris
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Luigia Elzi
- Regional Hospital of Bellinzona e Valli, Bellinzona, Switzerland
| | - Maja Weisser
- Ifakara Health Institute, Ifakara, United Republic of Tanzania
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Martin Rohacek
- St. Francis Regional Referral Hospital, Ifakara, United Republic of Tanzania.
- Ifakara Health Institute, Ifakara, United Republic of Tanzania.
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland.
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH), Kreuzstrasse 2, Allschwil, 4123, Switzerland.
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Erba A, Franzeck FC, Hinic V, Egli A, Osthoff M. Utilization of a Meningitis/Encephalitis PCR panel at the University Hospital Basel - a retrospective study to develop a diagnostic decision rule. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1351903. [PMID: 38695026 PMCID: PMC11061443 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1351903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The Biofire® FilmArray® Meningitis/Encephalitis (ME) PCR panel covers 14 viral, bacterial, and fungal pathogens and has been implemented in many institutions worldwide. Post-marketing studies indicate a reduced sensitivity and overutilization underscoring the need for a more targeted usage. The aim of our study is to describe the utilization of the ME panel and to develop a diagnostic-stewardship based decision rule. Materials Adult patients, who underwent CSF analysis with the ME panel between August 2016 and June 2021 at the University Hospital Basel, were included. Demographic, clinical, microbiological, and laboratory data were extracted from the electronic health record. Factors associated with a positive ME panel result were identified, and a decision rule was developed to potentially optimize the diagnostic yield and reduce the number of unnecessary tests. Results 1,236 adult patients received at least one panel in the observed period, of whom 106 panels tested positive (8.6%). The most frequently observed pathogens were Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV, 27%), Streptococcus pneumoniae (19%), Enterovirus (16%), Herpes simplex Virus 1/2 (16%), and Human Herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6, 13%). Fever, vomiting, headache, and photophobia were more frequently present in test positive patients as were significantly higher CSF leukocytes and protein concentrations. When simulating a decision rule based on CSF leukocytes and protein concentration, only 35% of all patients would have qualified for a ME panel tests, thereby increasing the positivity rate to 22.7%. 10 of 106 positive ME panels would have been missed, only involving HHV-6 and VZV (6 and 4 cases, respectively). As these subjects were either severely immunocompromised or had clinical features of shingles we propose extending the testing algorithm by including those criteria. Conclusion The ME panel positivity rate at our institution was similar as previously published. Our results highlight the need for diagnostic-stewardship interventions when utilizing this assay by implementing a stepwise approach based on a limited number of clinical and laboratory features. This decision rule may improve the pretest probability of a positive test result, increase the quality of test utilization, and reduce costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Erba
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Fabian C. Franzeck
- Clinical Data Warehouse, Research and Analytics Services, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Vladimira Hinic
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Division of Clinical Bacteriology and Mycology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Adrian Egli
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Division of Clinical Bacteriology and Mycology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Michael Osthoff
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cantonal Hospital Winterthur, Winterthur, Switzerland
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Gebhard CE, Sütsch C, Gebert P, Gysi B, Bengs S, Todorov A, Deforth M, Buehler PK, Meisel A, Schuepbach RA, Zinkernagel AS, Brugger SD, Acevedo C, Patriki D, Wiggli B, Beer JH, Friedl A, Twerenbold R, Kuster GM, Pargger H, Tschudin-Sutter S, Schefold JC, Spinetti T, Henze C, Pasqualini M, Sager DF, Mayrhofer L, Grieder M, Tontsch J, Franzeck FC, Wendel Garcia PD, Hofmaenner DA, Scheier T, Bartussek J, Haider A, Grämer M, Mikail N, Rossi A, Zellweger N, Opić P, Portmann A, von Känel R, Pazhenkottil AP, Messerli M, Buechel RR, Kaufmann PA, Treyer V, Siegemund M, Held U, Regitz-Zagrosek V, Gebhard C. Impact of sex and gender on post-COVID-19 syndrome, Switzerland, 2020. Euro Surveill 2024; 29:2300200. [PMID: 38214079 PMCID: PMC10785203 DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es.2024.29.2.2300200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BackgroundWomen are overrepresented among individuals with post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC). Biological (sex) as well as sociocultural (gender) differences between women and men might account for this imbalance, yet their impact on PASC is unknown.AimWe assessed the impact of sex and gender on PASC in a Swiss population.MethodOur multicentre prospective cohort study included 2,856 (46% women, mean age 44.2 ± 16.8 years) outpatients and hospitalised patients with PCR-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection.ResultsAmong those who remained outpatients during their first infection, women reported persisting symptoms more often than men (40.5% vs 25.5% of men; p < 0.001). This sex difference was absent in hospitalised patients. In a crude analysis, both female biological sex (RR = 1.59; 95% CI: 1.41-1.79; p < 0.001) and a score summarising gendered sociocultural variables (RR = 1.05; 95% CI: 1.03-1.07; p < 0.001) were significantly associated with PASC. Following multivariable adjustment, biological female sex (RR = 0.96; 95% CI: 0.74-1.25; p = 0.763) was outperformed by feminine gender-related factors such as a higher stress level (RR = 1.04; 95% CI: 1.01-1.06; p = 0.003), lower education (RR = 1.16; 95% CI: 1.03-1.30; p = 0.011), being female and living alone (RR = 1.91; 95% CI: 1.29-2.83; p = 0.001) or being male and earning the highest income in the household (RR = 0.76; 95% CI: 0.60-0.97; p = 0.030).ConclusionSpecific sociocultural parameters that differ in prevalence between women and men, or imply a unique risk for women, are predictors of PASC and may explain, at least in part, the higher incidence of PASC in women. Once patients are hospitalised during acute infection, sex differences in PASC are no longer evident.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline E Gebhard
- Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- These authors contributed equally
| | - Claudia Sütsch
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- These authors contributed equally
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Pimrapat Gebert
- Institute of Biometry and Clinical Epidemiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Bianca Gysi
- Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Susan Bengs
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Atanas Todorov
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Manja Deforth
- Department of Biostatistics at Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Philipp K Buehler
- Institute of Intensive Care, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Alexander Meisel
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Reto A Schuepbach
- Institute of Intensive Care, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Annelies S Zinkernagel
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Silvio D Brugger
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Claudio Acevedo
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Dimitri Patriki
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Benedikt Wiggli
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cantonal Hospital of Baden, Baden, Switzerland
| | - Jürg H Beer
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cantonal Hospital of Baden, Baden, Switzerland
| | - Andrée Friedl
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cantonal Hospital of Baden, Baden, Switzerland
| | - Raphael Twerenbold
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Cardiology and University Center of Cardiovascular Science, University Heart and Vascular Center Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Gabriela M Kuster
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Hans Pargger
- Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Sarah Tschudin-Sutter
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Joerg C Schefold
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Inselspital Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Thibaud Spinetti
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Inselspital Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Chiara Henze
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Mina Pasqualini
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Dominik F Sager
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Lilian Mayrhofer
- Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Mirjam Grieder
- Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Janna Tontsch
- Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Fabian C Franzeck
- Department of Informatics, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Pedro D Wendel Garcia
- Institute of Intensive Care, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Daniel A Hofmaenner
- Institute of Intensive Care, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Scheier
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jan Bartussek
- Department of Quantitative Biomedicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Institute of Intensive Care, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ahmed Haider
- Division of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, and Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Muriel Grämer
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Nidaa Mikail
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Alexia Rossi
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Núria Zellweger
- Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Petra Opić
- Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Angela Portmann
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Roland von Känel
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Aju P Pazhenkottil
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Michael Messerli
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ronny R Buechel
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Philipp A Kaufmann
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Valerie Treyer
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Martin Siegemund
- Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ulrike Held
- Department of Biostatistics at Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Vera Regitz-Zagrosek
- Institute of Gender in Medicine (GiM), Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Catherine Gebhard
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
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Dräger S, von Rotz M, Labhardt ND, Siegemund M, Rentsch KM, Osthoff M, Franzeck FC. Early Target Attainment With Continuous Infusion Meropenem and Piperacillin/Tazobactam and Utilization of Therapeutic Drug Monitoring in Critically Ill Patients: A Retrospective Cohort Study From 2017 to 2020. Open Forum Infect Dis 2023; 10:ofad143. [PMID: 37077503 PMCID: PMC10109529 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofad143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background We analyzed the attainment of early pharmacological targets of continuous infusion meropenem and piperacillin/tazobactam and the use and effect of a real-time therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) program on subsequent dosing and target attainment in patients who are critically ill. Methods This was a single-center, retrospective study among patients hospitalized in the intensive care unit in a Swiss tertiary care hospital from 2017 to 2020. The primary outcome was target attainment [100% tT ≥ 4xECOFF (Pseudomonas aeruginosa)] of continuous infusion meropenem and piperacillin/tazobactam within 72 hours after initiation of treatment. Results A total of 234 patients were included. Median first meropenem (n = 186 of 234) and piperacillin (n = 48 of 234) concentration was 21 mg/L (interquartile range [IQR], 15.6-28.6) and 100.7 mg/L (IQR, 64.0-160.2), respectively. Pharmacological target was attained in 95.7% (95% confidence interval [CI], 91.7-98.1) of patients receiving meropenem and 77.0% (95% CI, 62.7-87.9) treated with piperacillin/tazobactam. In the univariable and multivariable logistic regression, body weight and estimated glomerular filtration rate were negatively associated with target attainment. Subsequently, meropenem dosage was decreased or stopped in 35 of 186 (18.8%) and 89 of 186 (47.9%) patients, respectively, and increased in 2 of 186 (1.1%) patients. Conclusions Continuous infusion meropenem and piperacillin/tazobactam yielded excellent and moderate early pharmacological target attainment in critically ill patients, respectively. The TDM was mainly used to decrease meropenem dosage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Dräger
- Correspondence: Fabian Franzeck, MD, Department of Research and Analytic Services, University Hospital Basel, Petersgraben 4, 4031 Basel, Switzerland (); Sarah Dräger, MD, Division of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Basel, Petersgraben 4, 4031 Basel, Switzerland ()
| | - Matthias von Rotz
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Niklaus D Labhardt
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Clinical Research Unit, Department of Medicine, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Martin Siegemund
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, BaselSwitzerland
- Intensive Care Unit, Department of Acute Medicine, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Katharina M Rentsch
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Fabian C Franzeck
- Correspondence: Fabian Franzeck, MD, Department of Research and Analytic Services, University Hospital Basel, Petersgraben 4, 4031 Basel, Switzerland (); Sarah Dräger, MD, Division of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Basel, Petersgraben 4, 4031 Basel, Switzerland ()
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5
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Romann L, Werlen L, Rommers N, Hermann A, Gisler I, Bassetti S, Bingisser R, Siegemund M, Roloff T, Weisser M, Muigg V, Hinic V, Osthoff M, Franzeck FC, Egli A. Factors impacting the pre-analytical quality of blood cultures-Analysis at a tertiary medical center. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0282918. [PMID: 36928259 PMCID: PMC10019732 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0282918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Blood cultures (BC) are critical for the diagnosis of bloodstream infections, pathogen identification, and resistance testing. Guidelines recommend a blood volume of 8-10 mL per bottle as lower volumes result in decreased sensitivity. We aimed to evaluate factors for non-adherence to recommended volumes and assess the effects on diagnostic performance. METHODS From February to April 2020, we measured collected blood volumes by weighing all BC containers from inpatient samples at the University Hospital Basel. Information on BC volumes was merged with clinical and microbiological data, as well as nursing staff schedules. We analyzed factors associated with (i) BC sampling volume, (ii) reaching recommended volumes (≥8 mL), (iii) BC positivity, and (iv) time to positivity using linear and generalized linear mixed effect models. RESULTS We evaluated a total of 4'118 BC bottles collected from 686 patients. A total of 1'495 (36.3%) of all bottles contained the recommended filling volume of ≥8 mL. Using a central venous and arterial catheter for drawing blood resulted in an increase of filling volume by 0.26 mL (95% CI 0.10, 0.41) and 0.50 mL (95% CI 0.31, 0.69) compared to peripheral venipuncture, respectively. Each additional nursing staff working at the time of blood drawing was associated with 6% higher odds of achieving the recommended filling volume. We found no significant correlation between the filling volume and the positivity rate. CONCLUSION Our results indicate critical pre-analytical quality markers linked to BC collection procedures to reach recommended collection volumes. No significant impact on the positivity rate was found.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Romann
- Clinical Bacteriology and Mycology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department Biomedicine, Applied Microbiology Research, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- * E-mail:
| | - Laura Werlen
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Nikki Rommers
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Anja Hermann
- Chief Medical and Nursing Office, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Isabelle Gisler
- Chief Medical and Nursing Office, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Stefano Bassetti
- Internal Medicine, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Roland Bingisser
- Emergency Department, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Martin Siegemund
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Tim Roloff
- Clinical Bacteriology and Mycology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department Biomedicine, Applied Microbiology Research, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Maja Weisser
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Veronika Muigg
- Clinical Bacteriology and Mycology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Vladimira Hinic
- Clinical Bacteriology and Mycology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Michael Osthoff
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Internal Medicine, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Fabian C. Franzeck
- Department of Research and Analytics Services, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Adrian Egli
- Clinical Bacteriology and Mycology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department Biomedicine, Applied Microbiology Research, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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6
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Sava M, Bättig V, Gerull S, Passweg JR, Khanna N, Garzoni C, Gerber B, Mueller NJ, Schanz U, Berger C, Chalandon Y, van Delden C, Neofytos D, Stampf S, Franzeck FC, Weisser M. Bloodstream infections in allogeneic haematopoietic cell recipients from the Swiss Transplant Cohort Study: trends of causative pathogens and resistance rates. Bone Marrow Transplant 2023; 58:115-118. [PMID: 36310245 PMCID: PMC9812769 DOI: 10.1038/s41409-022-01851-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Mihaela Sava
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Veronika Bättig
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Sabine Gerull
- Division of Oncology, Hematology and Transfusion Medicine, Kantonsspital Aarau, Aarau, Switzerland
| | - Jakob R Passweg
- Department of Hematology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Nina Khanna
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Christian Garzoni
- Clinic of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Clinica Luganese Moncucco, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Bernhard Gerber
- Clinic of Hematology, Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale, Bellinzona, Switzerland.,Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Nicolas J Mueller
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Urs Schanz
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Christoph Berger
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Yves Chalandon
- Division of Hematology and Faculty of Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals and University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Christian van Delden
- Transplant Infectious Diseases Unit, University Hospitals Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Dionysios Neofytos
- Transplant Infectious Diseases Unit, University Hospitals Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Susanne Stampf
- Clinic for Transplantation Immunology and Nephrology (Swiss Transplant Cohort Study), University Hospital of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Fabian C Franzeck
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Maja Weisser
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
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Schmuelling L, Franzeck FC, Nickel CH, Mansella G, Bingisser R, Schmidt N, Stieltjes B, Bremerich J, Sauter AW, Weikert T, Sommer G. Deep learning-based automated detection of pulmonary embolism on CT pulmonary angiograms: No significant effects on report communication times and patient turnaround in the emergency department nine months after technical implementation. Eur J Radiol 2021; 141:109816. [PMID: 34157638 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2021.109816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Rapid communication of CT exams positive for pulmonary embolism (PE) is crucial for timely initiation of anticoagulation and patient outcome. It is unknown if deep learning automated detection of PE on CT Pulmonary Angiograms (CTPA) in combination with worklist prioritization and an electronic notification system (ENS) can improve communication times and patient turnaround in the Emergency Department (ED). METHODS In 01/2019, an ENS allowing direct communication between radiology and ED was installed. Starting in 10/2019, CTPAs were processed by a deep learning (DL)-powered algorithm for detection of PE. CTPAs acquired between 04/2018 and 06/2020 (n = 1808) were analysed. To assess the impact of the ENS and the DL-algorithm, radiology report reading times (RRT), radiology report communication time (RCT), time to anticoagulation (TTA), and patient turnaround times (TAT) in the ED were compared for three consecutive time periods. Performance measures of the algorithm were calculated on a per exam level (sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, F1-score), with written reports and exam review as ground truth. RESULTS Sensitivity of the algorithm was 79.6 % (95 %CI:70.8-87.2%), specificity 95.0 % (95 %CI:92.0-97.1%), PPV 82.2 % (95 %CI:73.9-88.3), and NPV 94.1 % (95 %CI:91.4-96 %). There was no statistically significant reduction of any of the observed times (RRT, RCT, TTA, TAT). CONCLUSION DL-assisted detection of PE in CTPAs and ENS-assisted communication of results to referring physicians technically work. However, the mere clinical introduction of these tools, even if they exhibit a good performance, is not sufficient to achieve significant effects on clinical performance measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena Schmuelling
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Fabian C Franzeck
- Department of Research and Analytic Services, University Hospital Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Christian H Nickel
- Emergency Department, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Gregory Mansella
- Emergency Department, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Roland Bingisser
- Emergency Department, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Noemi Schmidt
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Bram Stieltjes
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Switzerland; Department of Research and Analytic Services, University Hospital Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Jens Bremerich
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Alexander W Sauter
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Switzerland; Department of Research and Analytic Services, University Hospital Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Thomas Weikert
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Switzerland; Department of Research and Analytic Services, University Hospital Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Gregor Sommer
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Switzerland.
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Romanov A, Bach M, Yang S, Franzeck FC, Sommer G, Anastasopoulos C, Bremerich J, Stieltjes B, Weikert T, Sauter AW. Automated CT Lung Density Analysis of Viral Pneumonia and Healthy Lungs Using Deep Learning-Based Segmentation, Histograms and HU Thresholds. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11050738. [PMID: 33919094 PMCID: PMC8143124 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11050738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
CT patterns of viral pneumonia are usually only qualitatively described in radiology reports. Artificial intelligence enables automated and reliable segmentation of lungs with chest CT. Based on this, the purpose of this study was to derive meaningful imaging biomarkers reflecting CT patterns of viral pneumonia and assess their potential to discriminate between healthy lungs and lungs with viral pneumonia. This study used non-enhanced and CT pulmonary angiograms (CTPAs) of healthy lungs and viral pneumonia (SARS-CoV-2, influenza A/B) identified by radiology reports and RT-PCR results. After deep learning segmentation of the lungs, histogram-based and threshold-based analyses of lung attenuation were performed and compared. The derived imaging biomarkers were correlated with parameters of clinical and biochemical severity (modified WHO severity scale; c-reactive protein). For non-enhanced CTs (n = 526), all imaging biomarkers significantly differed between healthy lungs and lungs with viral pneumonia (all p < 0.001), a finding that was not reproduced for CTPAs (n = 504). Standard deviation (histogram-derived) and relative high attenuation area [600-0 HU] (HU-thresholding) differed most. The strongest correlation with disease severity was found for absolute high attenuation area [600-0 HU] (r = 0.56, 95% CI = 0.46-0.64). Deep-learning segmentation-based histogram and HU threshold analysis could be deployed in chest CT evaluation for the differentiating of healthy lungs from AP lungs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrej Romanov
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Petersgraben 4, 4031 Basel, Switzerland; (A.R.); (G.S.); (J.B.); (T.W.); (A.W.S.)
| | - Michael Bach
- Department of Research & Analytic Services, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Spitalstrasse 8, 4031 Basel, Switzerland; (M.B.); (S.Y.); (F.C.F.); (B.S.)
| | - Shan Yang
- Department of Research & Analytic Services, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Spitalstrasse 8, 4031 Basel, Switzerland; (M.B.); (S.Y.); (F.C.F.); (B.S.)
| | - Fabian C. Franzeck
- Department of Research & Analytic Services, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Spitalstrasse 8, 4031 Basel, Switzerland; (M.B.); (S.Y.); (F.C.F.); (B.S.)
| | - Gregor Sommer
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Petersgraben 4, 4031 Basel, Switzerland; (A.R.); (G.S.); (J.B.); (T.W.); (A.W.S.)
| | - Constantin Anastasopoulos
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Petersgraben 4, 4031 Basel, Switzerland; (A.R.); (G.S.); (J.B.); (T.W.); (A.W.S.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Jens Bremerich
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Petersgraben 4, 4031 Basel, Switzerland; (A.R.); (G.S.); (J.B.); (T.W.); (A.W.S.)
| | - Bram Stieltjes
- Department of Research & Analytic Services, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Spitalstrasse 8, 4031 Basel, Switzerland; (M.B.); (S.Y.); (F.C.F.); (B.S.)
| | - Thomas Weikert
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Petersgraben 4, 4031 Basel, Switzerland; (A.R.); (G.S.); (J.B.); (T.W.); (A.W.S.)
- Department of Research & Analytic Services, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Spitalstrasse 8, 4031 Basel, Switzerland; (M.B.); (S.Y.); (F.C.F.); (B.S.)
| | - Alexander Walter Sauter
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Petersgraben 4, 4031 Basel, Switzerland; (A.R.); (G.S.); (J.B.); (T.W.); (A.W.S.)
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Roth JA, Franzeck FC, Balakrishna S, Lautenschlager S, Thurnheer MC, Trellu LT, Cavassini M, Vernazza P, Bernasconi E, Braun D, Kouyos RD, Battegay M. Repeated Syphilis Episodes in HIV-Infected Men Who Have Sex With Men: A Multicenter Prospective Cohort Study on Risk Factors and the Potential Role of Syphilis Immunity. Open Forum Infect Dis 2020; 7:ofaa019. [PMID: 32016128 PMCID: PMC6988838 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofaa019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Syphilis is re-emerging globally in general and HIV-infected populations, and repeated syphilis episodes may play a central role in syphilis transmission among core groups. Besides sexual behavioral factors, little is known about determinants of repeated syphilis episodes in HIV-infected individuals—including the potential impact of preceding syphilis episodes on subsequent syphilis risk. Methods In the prospective Swiss HIV cohort study, with routine syphilis testing since 2004, we analyzed HIV-infected men who have sex with men (MSM). Our primary outcome was first and repeated syphilis episodes. We used univariable and multivariable Andersen-Gill models to evaluate risk factors for first and repeated incident syphilis episodes. Results Within the 14-year observation period, we included 2513 HIV-infected MSM with an initially negative syphilis test. In the univariable and multivariable analysis, the number of prior syphilis episodes (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] per 1-episode increase, 1.15; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01–1.31), having occasional sexual partners with or without condomless anal sex (aHR, 4.99; 95% CI, 4.08–6.11; and aHR, 2.54; 95% CI, 2.10–3.07), and being currently on antiretroviral therapy (aHR, 1.62; 95% CI, 1.21–2.16) were associated with incident syphilis. Conclusions In HIV-infected MSM, we observed no indication of decreased syphilis risk with repeated syphilis episodes. The extent of sexual risk behavior over time was the strongest risk factor for repeated syphilis episodes. The observed association of antiretroviral therapy with repeated syphilis episodes warrants further immunological and epidemiological investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan A Roth
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Basel Institute for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Fabian C Franzeck
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Suraj Balakrishna
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Institute of Medical Virology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Stephan Lautenschlager
- Outpatient Clinic of Dermatology and Venerology, City Hospital Triemli, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Laurence Toutous Trellu
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Geneva, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Matthias Cavassini
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Lausanne, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Pietro Vernazza
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Enos Bernasconi
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Regional Hospital Lugano, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Dominique Braun
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Roger D Kouyos
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Institute of Medical Virology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Manuel Battegay
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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Nyogea D, Mtenga S, Henning L, Franzeck FC, Glass TR, Letang E, Tanner M, Geubbels E. Determinants of antiretroviral adherence among HIV positive children and teenagers in rural Tanzania: a mixed methods study. BMC Infect Dis 2015; 15:28. [PMID: 25637106 PMCID: PMC4314748 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-015-0753-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2014] [Accepted: 01/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Around 3.3 million children worldwide are infected with HIV and 90% of them live in sub-Saharan Africa. Our study aimed to estimate adherence levels and find the determinants, facilitators and barriers of ART adherence among children and teenagers in rural Tanzania. Methods We applied a sequential explanatory mixed method design targeting children and teenagers aged 2–19 years residing in Ifakara. We conducted a quantitative cross sectional study followed by a qualitative study combining focus group discussions (FGDs) and in-depth interviews (IDIs). We used pill count to measure adherence and defined optimal adherence as > =80% of pills being taken. We analysed determinants of poor adherence using logistic regression. We held eight FGDs with adolescent boys and girls on ART and with caretakers. We further explored issues emerging in the FGDs in four in-depth interviews with patients and health workers. Qualitative data was analysed using thematic content analysis. Results Out of 116 participants available for quantitative analysis, 70% had optimal adherence levels and the average adherence level was 84%. Living with a non-parent caretaker predicted poor adherence status. From the qualitative component, unfavorable school environment, timing of the morning ART dose, treatment longevity, being unaware of HIV status, non-parental (biological) care, preference for traditional medicine (herbs) and forgetfulness were seen to be barriers for optimal adherence. Conclusion The study has highlighted specific challenges in ART adherence faced by children and teenagers. Having a biological parent as a caretaker remains a key determinant of adherence among children and teenagers. To achieve optimal adherence, strategies targeting the caretakers, the school environment, and the health system need to be designed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Nyogea
- Ifakara Health institute, P.O Box 153, Ifakara, Tanzania. .,Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Sally Mtenga
- Ifakara Health institute, P.O Box 153, Ifakara, Tanzania.
| | - Lars Henning
- Ifakara Health institute, P.O Box 153, Ifakara, Tanzania. .,Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland. .,University Hospital of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland.
| | - Fabian C Franzeck
- Ifakara Health institute, P.O Box 153, Ifakara, Tanzania. .,Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Tracy R Glass
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Emilio Letang
- Ifakara Health institute, P.O Box 153, Ifakara, Tanzania. .,Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland. .,ISGlobal, Barcelona Ctr. Int. Health Res. (CRESIB), Hospital Clínic - Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Marcel Tanner
- Ifakara Health institute, P.O Box 153, Ifakara, Tanzania. .,Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland.
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11
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Franzeck FC, Ngwale R, Msongole B, Hamisi M, Abdul O, Henning L, Letang E, Mwaigomole G, Battegay M, Hatz C, Tanner M. Viral hepatitis and rapid diagnostic test based screening for HBsAg in HIV-infected patients in rural Tanzania. PLoS One 2013; 8:e58468. [PMID: 23469281 PMCID: PMC3585939 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0058468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2012] [Accepted: 02/05/2013] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Co-infection with hepatitis B virus (HBV) is highly prevalent in people living with HIV in Sub-Saharan Africa. Screening for HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) before initiation of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) is recommended. However, it is not part of diagnostic routines in HIV programs in many resource-limited countries although patients could benefit from optimized antiretroviral therapy covering both infections. Screening could be facilitated by rapid diagnostic tests for HBsAg. Operating experience with these point of care devices in HIV-positive patients in Sub-Saharan Africa is largely lacking. We determined the prevalence of HBV and Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection as well as the diagnostic accuracy of the rapid test device Determine HBsAg in an HIV cohort in rural Tanzania. METHODS Prospectively collected blood samples from adult, HIV-1 positive and antiretroviral treatment-naïve patients in the Kilombero and Ulanga antiretroviral cohort (KIULARCO) in rural Tanzania were analyzed at the point of care with Determine HBsAg, a reference HBsAg EIA and an anti-HCV EIA. RESULTS Samples of 272 patients were included. Median age was 38 years (interquartile range [IQR] 32-47), 169/272 (63%) subjects were females and median CD4+ count was 250 cells/µL (IQR 97-439). HBsAg was detected in 25/272 (9.2%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 6.2-13.0%) subjects. Of these, 7/25 (28%) were positive for HBeAg. Sensitivity of Determine HBsAg was rated at 96% (95% CI 82.8-99.6%) and specificity at 100% (95% CI, 98.9-100%). Antibodies to HCV (anti-HCV) were found in 10/272 (3.7%, 95% CI 2.0-6.4%) of patients. CONCLUSION This study reports a high prevalence of HBV in HIV-positive patients in a rural Tanzanian setting. The rapid diagnostic test Determine HBsAg is an accurate assay for screening for HBsAg in HIV-1 infected patients at the point of care and may further help to guide cART in Sub-Saharan Africa.
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12
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Breitenstein A, Wyss CA, Spescha RD, Franzeck FC, Hof D, Riwanto M, Hasun M, Akhmedov A, von Eckardstein A, Maier W, Landmesser U, Lüscher TF, Camici GG. Peripheral blood monocyte Sirt1 expression is reduced in patients with coronary artery disease. PLoS One 2013; 8:e53106. [PMID: 23382833 PMCID: PMC3558418 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0053106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2012] [Accepted: 11/23/2012] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inflammation plays a key role in atherosclerosis. Sirt1 regulates transcription factors involved in inflammatory processes and blunts atherosclerosis in mice. However, its role in humans remains to be defined. This study was therefore designed to investigate the role of Sirt1 in the development of atherosclerosis. METHODS AND RESULTS 48 male subjects admitted for cardiac catheterization were subdivided into healthy subjects, patients with stable coronary artery disease (CAD), and with acute coronary syndromes (ACS). Monocytes were isolated and Sirt1 mRNA levels were determined. Sirt1 gene expression was higher in healthy subjects as compared to patients with CAD or ACS (P<0.05), respectively. Interestingly, HDL levels correlated positively with Sirt1 expression. Thus, HDL from the three groups was isolated and incubated with THP-1 monocytes to determine the effects of HDL on Sirt1 protein in controlled experimental conditions. HDL from healthy subjects stimulated Sirt1 expression in THP-1 monocytes to a higher degree than HDL from CAD and ACS patients (P<0.05). Paraoxonase-1 (PON-1), a HDL-associated enzyme, showed a reduced activity in HDL isolated from CAD and ACS patients as compared to the controls (P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS Monocytic Sirt1 expression is reduced in patients with stable CAD and ACS. Experiments on THP-1 monocytes suggest that this effect is HDL-dependent and is mediated by a reduced activity of HDL-associated enzyme PON1.
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