Monkeypox in Montréal: Epidemiology, Phylogenomics, and Public Health Response to a Large North American Outbreak

BACKGROUND

Monkeypox, a viral zoonotic disease, is causing a global outbreak outside of endemic areas.

OBJECTIVE

To characterize the outbreak of monkeypox in Montréal, the first large outbreak in North America.

DESIGN

Epidemiologic and laboratory surveillance data and a phylogenomic analysis were used to describe and place the outbreak in a global context.

SETTING

Montréal, Canada.

PATIENTS

Probable or confirmed cases of monkeypox.

MEASUREMENTS

Epidemiologic, clinical, and demographic data were aggregated. Whole-genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis were performed for a set of outbreak sequences. The public health response and its evolution are described.

RESULTS

Up to 18 October 2022, a total of 402 cases of monkeypox were reported mostly among men who have sex with men (MSM), most of which were suspected to be acquired through sexual contact. All monkeypox genomes nested within the B.1 lineage. Montréal Public Health worked closely with the affected communities to control the outbreak, becoming the first jurisdiction to offer 1 dose of the Modified Vaccinia Ankara-Bavarian Nordic vaccine as preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to those at risk in early June 2022. Two peaks of cases were seen in early June and July (43 and 44 cases per week, respectively) followed by a decline toward near resolution of the outbreak in October. Reasons for the biphasic peak are not fully elucidated but may represent the tempo of vaccination and/or several factors related to transmission dynamics and case ascertainment.

LIMITATIONS

Clinical data are self-reported. Limited divergence among sequences limited genomic epidemiologic conclusions.

CONCLUSION

A large outbreak of monkeypox occurred in Montréal, primarily among MSM. Successful control of the outbreak rested on early and sustained engagement with the affected communities and rapid offer of PrEP vaccination to at-risk persons.

PRIMARY FUNDING SOURCE

None.

Safety and Tolerability of Oral Cannabinoids in People Living with HIV on Long-Term ART: A Randomized, Open-Label, Interventional Pilot Clinical Trial (CTNPT 028)

BACKGROUND

With anti-inflammatory properties, cannabinoids may be a potential strategy to reduce immune activation in people living with HIV (PLWH) but more information on their safety and tolerability is needed.

METHODS

We conducted an open-label interventional pilot study at the McGill University Health Centre in Montreal, Canada. PLWH were randomized to oral Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC): cannabidiol (CBD) combination (THC 2.5 mg/CBD 2.5 mg) or CBD-only capsules (CBD 200 mg). Individuals titrated doses as tolerated to a maximum daily dose THC 15 mg/CBD 15 mg or 800 mg CBD, respectively, for 12 weeks. The primary outcome was the percentage of participants without any significant toxicity based on the WHO toxicity scale (Grades 0-2 scores).

RESULTS

Out of ten individuals, eight completed the study. Two from the CBD-only arm were withdrawn for safety concerns: phlebotomy aggravating pre-existing anemia and severe hepatitis on 800 mg CBD with newly discovered pancreatic adenocarcinoma, respectively. Seven did not have any significant toxicity. Cannabinoids did not alter hematology/biochemistry profiles. CD4 count, CD4/CD8 ratio, and HIV suppression remained stable. Most adverse effects were mild-moderate.

CONCLUSIONS

In PLWH, cannabinoids seem generally safe and well-tolerated, though larger studies are needed. Screening for occult liver pathology should be performed and hepatic enzymes monitored, especially with high CBD doses.

Chemsex and incidence of sexually transmitted infections among Canadian pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) users in the l'Actuel PrEP Cohort (2013-2020)

OBJECTIVES

Use of illicit substances during sex (chemsex) may increase transmission of HIV and other STIs. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is highly effective at preventing HIV transmission, providing an important prevention tool for those who practise chemsex. However, it does not prevent acquisition of other STIs. We aim to examine the impact of chemsex on STI incidence among gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (gbMSM), and transgender women using PrEP in Montréal, Canada.

METHODS

We linked baseline sociodemographic and behavioural data with follow-up STI testing from 2013 to 2020 among PrEP users in the l'Actuel PrEP Cohort (Canada). Focusing on the 24 months following PrEP initiation, we estimated the effect of chemsex reported at baseline on cumulative incidence of gonorrhoea and chlamydia using Kaplan-Meier curves and survival analyses. We investigated the role of polysubstance use and effect modification by sociodemographic factors.

RESULTS

There were 2086 clients (2079 cisgender gbMSM, 3 transgender gbMSM, 4 transgender women) who initiated PrEP, contributing 1477 years of follow-up. There were no incident HIV infections among clients on PrEP. Controlling for sociodemographic confounders, clients reporting chemsex at baseline had a 32% higher hazard of gonorrhoea/chlamydia diagnosis (adjusted HR=1.32; 95% CI: 1.10 to 1.57), equivalent to a risk increase of 8.9 percentage points (95% CI: 8.5 to 9.4) at 12 months. The effect was greater for clients who reported polysubstance use (adjusted HR=1.51; 95% CI: 1.21 to 1.89). The strength of the effect of chemsex on STI incidence varied by age, education and income.

CONCLUSION

Among PrEP users, chemsex at baseline was linked to increased incidence of gonorrhoea and chlamydia. This effect was stronger for people reporting multiple chemsex substances. The high STI incidence among gbMSM who report chemsex highlights the importance of PrEP for this population and the need for integrated services that address the complexities of sexualised substance use.

Depression, diabetes and immigration status: a retrospective cohort study using the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging

BACKGROUND

A bidirectional association between depression and diabetes exists, but has not been evaluated in the context of immigrant status. Given that social determinants of health differ between immigrants and nonimmigrants, we evaluated the association between diabetes and depression incidence, depression and diabetes incidence, and whether immigrant status modified this association, among immigrants and nonimmigrants in Canada.

METHODS

We employed a retrospective cohort design using data from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging Comprehensive cohort (baseline [2012-2015] and 3-year follow-up [2015-2018]). We defined participants as having diabetes if they self-reported it or if their glycated hemoglobin A_1c level was 7% or more; we defined participants as having depression if their Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression score was 10 or higher or if they were currently undergoing depression treatment. We excluded those with baseline depression (Cohort 1) and baseline diabetes (Cohort 2) to evaluate the associations between diabetes and depression incidence, and between depression and diabetes incidence, respectively. We constructed logistic regression models with interaction by immigrant status.

RESULTS

Cohort 1 (n = 20 723; mean age 62.7 yr, standard deviation [SD] 10.1 yr; 47.6% female) included 3766 (18.2%) immigrants. Among immigrants, 16.4% had diabetes, compared with 15.6% among nonimmigrants. Diabetes was associated with an increased risk of depression in nonimmigrants (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 1.27, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.08-1.49), but not in immigrants (adjusted OR 1.12, 95% CI 0.80-1.56). Younger age, female sex, weight change, poor sleep quality and pain increased depression risk. Cohort 2 (n = 22 054; mean age 62.1 yr, SD 10.1 yr; 52.2% female) included 3913 (17.7%) immigrants. Depression was associated with an increased risk of diabetes in both nonimmigrants (adjusted OR 1.39, 95% CI 1.16-1.68) and immigrants (adjusted OR 1.60, 95% CI 1.08-2.37). Younger age, male sex, waist circumference, weight change, hypertension and heart disease increased diabetes risk.

INTERPRETATION

We found an overall bidirectional association between diabetes and depression that was not significantly modified by immigrant status. Screening for diabetes for people with depression and screening for depression for those with diabetes should be considered.

Characteristics of new HIV diagnoses over 1995-2019: A clinic-based study in Montréal, Canada

BACKGROUND

Characterization of populations at risk of acquiring HIV is required to inform the public health response to HIV. To identify potential changing needs in HIV prevention and care cascade, we aim to describe how the demographic profiles and exposure categories of newly diagnosed HIV positive individuals attending a large sexual health clinic in Montréal (Canada) evolved since the beginning of the antiretroviral therapy era in the mid-1990s.

METHODS

Using diagnosis data from participants of the Clinique médicale l'Actuel cohort of HIV-positive patients, we examined the distribution of exposure categories (sexual orientation, sexual behaviours, injection drug use, being born in an HIV-endemic country) by gender and year of diagnosis. Time trends in mean age and in the proportion of patients with late (CD4 <350 cells/μL) or advanced stage (CD4 <200 cells/μL) of HIV infection at diagnosis were assessed through meta-regressions.

RESULTS

A total of 2,612 patients diagnosed with HIV between January 1st, 1995 and December 31st, 2019 were included. Overall, mean age was 35 years (standard deviation: 10 years) and remained stable over time. The proportion of patients with advanced stage of HIV infection decreased from 16% in 1995 to 4% in 2019. Although men who have sex with men (MSM) consistently accounted for the highest proportion of new diagnoses (77%, 2,022/2,612 overall), their proportion decreased since 2013. There was also a concomitant decrease in the proportion of people who inject drugs, with none of the newly diagnosed participants reporting injection drug use since 2017, and an important increase in the proportion of patients born in an HIV-endemic country (24%, 7/29 in 2019), especially among women. Compared to patients from non-endemic countries, those from HIV-endemic countries were characterized by higher proportions of heterosexuals (88% vs 17%) and of women (52% vs 7%), and were twice likely to get diagnosed at an advanced stage of HIV infection (32% vs 15%).

CONCLUSIONS

In absolute numbers, MSM continue to account for the largest exposure category. However, patients from HIV-endemic countries, who tend to be diagnosed at later stages of HIV infection, constitute an increasing proportion of newly diagnosed individuals. These persons could face distinct barriers to rapid diagnosis. Tailoring HIV testing strategies and other prevention interventions to the specific unmet prevention needs of these individuals is warranted.

Characterization of people living with HIV in a Montreal-based tertiary care center with COVID-19 during the first wave of the pandemic

People living with HIV (PLWH) often have worse health outcomes compared to HIV-uninfected individuals. We characterized PLWH followed at a tertiary care clinic in Montreal who acquired COVID-19 and described their outcomes during the first wave of the pandemic. A retrospective chart review was performed for PLWH followed at the Chronic Viral Illness Service with a positive COVID-19 nasopharyngeal PCR or symptoms suggestive of COVID-19 between 1 March and 15 June 2020. Data on demographics, socioeconomic status, co-morbidities and severity of COVID-19 and outcomes were extracted. Of 1702 individuals, 32 (1.9%) had a positive COVID-19 test (n = 24) or symptoms suspicious for COVID-19 (n = 3). Median age was 52 years [IQR 40, 62]. Nearly all (97%) earned $34,999 Canadian dollars or less. Eleven (34%) individuals worked in long-term care (LTC) homes while 5 (6%) lived in LTC homes. Median CD4 count was 566 cells/mm³ [347, 726] and six had detectable plasma HIV viral loads. Median duration of HIV was 17 years [7, 22] and 30 individuals had been prescribed antiretroviral therapy. Five persons were asymptomatic. Of symptomatic persons, 21 (12%), 1 (4%) and 3 (12%) individuals had mild, moderate and severe disease, respectively. Three individuals died with COVID-19. In one case, the cause of death was due to COVID-19, whereas in the other two cases, the individuals died with positive COVID-19 test results but the immediate cause of death is unclear. PLWH who tested positive for COVID-19 had low socioeconomic status and had employment or living conditions that put them at high risk. PLWH may be disproportionately impacted by the social determinants of health which predispose them to COVID-19.

Polyfunctional Fc Dependent Activity of Antibodies to Native Trimeric Envelope in HIV Elite Controllers

Antibody dependent (AD) functions such as AD cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) were associated with lower viral load (VL) in untreated HIV progressors and protection from HIV infection in the modestly protective RV144 HIV vaccine trial. Target cells used to measure ADCC, AD complement deposition (ADCD), and AD cellular trogocytosis (ADCT) have been either HIV envelope (Env) gp120-coated CEM.NKr.CCR5 cells or HIV infected cell cultures. In HIV infected cell cultures, uninfected bystander cells take up gp120 shed from infected cells. Both gp120-coated and gp120+ bystander cells expose CD4 induced (CD4i) epitopes, which are normally hidden in native trimeric Env expressed by genuinely HIV infected cells since Nef and Vpu downmodulate cell surface CD4. Antibody dependent assays using either of these target cells probe for CD4i Abs that are abundant in HIV⁺ plasma but that do not recognize HIV-infected cells. Here, we examined ADCC, ADCD, and ADCT functions using a target cell line, sorted HIV-infected cell line cells, whose HIV infection frequency nears 100% and that expresses HIV Env in a native trimeric closed conformation. Using sorted HIV-infected cells (siCEM) as targets, we probed the binding and AD functions of anti-gp120/Env Abs in plasma from HIV-infected untreated progressor (UTP, n = 18) and treated (TP, n = 24) subjects, compared to that in Elite controllers (EC, n = 37) and Viral Controllers (VC, n = 16), which are rare subsets of HIV-infected individuals who maintain undetectable or low VL, respectively, without treatment. Gp120-coated beads were used to measure AD cellular phagocytosis. Equivalent concentrations of input IgG in plasma from UTPs, ECs, and VCs supported higher levels of all AD functions tested than plasma from TPs. When AD activities were normalized to the concentration of anti-gp120/Env-specific Abs, between-group differences largely disappeared. This finding suggests that the anti-gp120/Env Abs concentrations and not their potency determined AD functional levels in these assays. Elite controllers did differ from the other groups by having AD functions that were highly polyfunctional and highly correlated with each other. PCR measurement of HIV reservoir size showed that ADCC activity was higher in ECs and VCs with a reservoir size below the limit of detection compared to those having a measurable HIV reservoir size.

Cannabis Consumption in People Living with HIV: Reasons for Use, Secondary Effects, and Opportunities for Health Education

Introduction: Rates of cannabis consumption range from 40% to 74% among people living with HIV (PLWH). Little is known about the reasons for cannabis use, related modes of administration, effectiveness for symptom relief, or undesirable effects in the modern antiretroviral therapy (ART) era. Our aim was to conduct an exploratory study to identify potential areas for further evaluation and intervention. Materials and Methods: From January to June 2018, health care providers at the Chronic Viral Illness Service in Montreal, Canada, asked their patients about cannabis use during routine visits. Patients reporting cannabis use were invited to complete a 20-min coordinator-administered questionnaire. Questions related to patterns of use, modes of administration, reasons for use, secondary effects, and HIV health-related factors (e.g., adherence to ART). Results: One hundred and four PLWH reporting cannabis use participated. Median age was 54 years (interquartile range [IQR] 46-59), 13% were female, and 42% were HIV-Hepatitis C co-infected. Median CD4 count was 590 cells/mm³ (IQR 390-821), 95% of participants were on ART, and 88% had suppressed viral loads. Reported cannabis use was more than once daily (32%); daily (25%); weekly (22%); monthly (17%); and rarely (twice to thrice per year; 6%). The majority of participants (97%) smoked dry plant cannabis. Other modes included vaping (12%), capsules (2%), edibles (21%), and oils (12%). Common reasons for cannabis use were for pleasure (68%) and to reduce anxiety (57%), stress (55%), and pain (57%). Many participants found cannabis "quite effective" or "extremely effective" (45%) for symptom relief. Secondary effects included feeling high (74%), increased cough (45%), paranoia (22%), palpitations (20%), and increased anxiety (21%). Over two-thirds of participants indicated that secondary effects were not bothersome at all. Most participants (68%) rarely missed doses of their ART, while 27% missed occasionally (once to twice per month). The most commonly accessed sources of information about cannabis were friends (77%) and the internet (55%). Conclusion: The most common reasons for cannabis use in our population were for pleasure, followed by reduction of stress/anxiety and symptoms associated with a medical condition. Most smoke cannabis and rate cannabis as quite effective for symptom relief. While many participants experience secondary effects, most are not bothered by these symptoms. Amid widespread changes in the regulatory landscape of recreational cannabis, health care providers should be prepared to answer questions about cannabis.

Cohort profile: l'Actuel Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Cohort study in Montreal, Canada

PURPOSE

The l'Actuel PrEP Cohort was established to monitor the uptake, effectiveness, safety and changes in sexual risk behaviours among individuals receiving pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for the prevention of HIV. This prospective dynamic cohort is based at Clinique médicale l'Actuel, a large sexual health clinic located in Montreal, Canada.

PARTICIPANTS

Since the cohort inception in January of 2013 through June 2018, 2156 individuals consulted for PrEP as participants in the l'Actuel PrEP Cohort. Median age was 35 years (IQR: 29-44 years) and the majority (96%) were men who have sex with men. Among 1551 individuals who initiated PrEP care, the median duration of follow-up was 9.2 months (IQR: 3.7-19.6), with substantial variation based on year of cohort entry. The l'Actuel PrEP Cohort contains both daily and intermittent 'on-demand' PrEP users and has the largest reported population of intermittent PrEP users (n=406) in North America.

FINDINGS TO DATE

No incident HIV infections have occurred among individuals using PrEP over 1637 person-years of follow-up. However, retention in PrEP care is essential as three individuals who discontinued PrEP subsequently acquired HIV, translating to an HIV incidence of 3.9 cases per 100 person-years (95% CI: 1.3 to 12.1). Among a sample of participants with 1 year of follow-up before and after PrEP initiation (n=109), a moderate increase in sexually transmitted infections was observed following PrEP start.

FUTURE PLANS

The l'Actuel PrEP Cohort continues to grow with new participants starting PrEP monthly and extended follow-up for existing users. The cohort data will be used for ongoing monitoring of PrEP and for population-level modelling of the impact of PrEP on HIV incidence in Montreal.

CXCL13 as a Biomarker of Immune Activation During Early and Chronic HIV Infection

Background: CXCL13 is preferentially secreted by Follicular Helper T cells (T_FH) to attract B cells to germinal centers. Plasma levels of CXCL13 have been reported to be elevated during chronic HIV-infection, however there is limited data on such elevation during early phases of infection and on the effect of ART. Moreover, the contribution of CXCL13 to disease progression and systemic immune activation have been partially defined. Herein, we assessed the relationship between plasma levels of CXCL13 and systemic immune activation.

Methods: Study samples were collected in 114 people living with HIV (PLWH) who were in early (EHI) or chronic (CHI) HIV infection and 35 elite controllers (EC) compared to 17 uninfected controls (UC). A subgroup of 11 EHI who initiated ART and 14 who did not were followed prospectively. Plasma levels of CXCL13 were correlated with CD4 T cell count, CD4/CD8 ratio, plasma viral load (VL), markers of microbial translocation [LPS, sCD14, and (1→3)-β-D-Glucan], markers of B cell activation (total IgG, IgM, IgA, and IgG1-4), and inflammatory/activation markers like IL-6, IL-8, IL-1β, TNF-α, IDO-1 activity, and frequency of CD38⁺HLA-DR⁺ T cells on CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells.

Results: Plasma levels of CXCL13 were elevated in EHI (127.9 ± 64.9 pg/mL) and CHI (229.4 ± 28.5 pg/mL) compared to EC (71.3 ± 20.11 pg/mL), and UC (33.4 ± 14.9 pg/mL). Longitudinal analysis demonstrated that CXCL13 remains significantly elevated after 14 months without ART (p < 0.001) and was reduced without normalization after 24 months on ART (p = 0.002). Correlations were observed with VL, CD4 T cell count, CD4/CD8 ratio, LPS, sCD14, (1→3)-β-D-Glucan, total IgG, TNF-α, Kynurenine/Tryptophan ratio, and frequency of CD38+HLA-DR+ CD4 and CD8 T cells. In addition, CMV+ PLWH presented with higher levels of plasma CXCL13 than CMV- PLWH (p = 0.005).

Conclusion: Plasma CXCL13 levels increased with HIV disease progression. Early initiation of ART reduces plasma CXCL13 and B cell activation without normalization. CXCL13 represents a novel marker of systemic immune activation during early and chronic HIV infection and may be used to predict the development of non-AIDS events.

Use of Smoking Cessation Aids in a Convenience Sample of PLHIV in a Canadian Tertiary Care Clinic

Background:

Tobacco smoking is among the most significant predictors of cardiovascular disease and lung cancer in People Living with HIV (PLHIV). Smoking rates in this population are high, necessitating more effective smoking cessation strategies. We conducted a descriptive analysis of tobacco-related clinical and sociodemographic characteristics of smokers at a tertiary care HIV clinic in Montreal and an exploratory analysis of smoking cessation methods in order to identify potential areas of improvement in the clinic’s approach to smoking cessation.

Methods:

A convenience sample of patients completed a 10-minute questionnaire on tobacco-related behaviours and outcomes. Use of smoking cessation methods was compared using McNemar’s exact test with a Bonferroni correction for multiple testing (p<0.01 considered significant).

Results:

Seventy-two PLHIV participated. Two-thirds of our total participants were interested in quitting within six months, but the use of effective cessation strategies was low, particularly for counseling and oral therapy. Overall, oral therapy (e.g. varenicline) (16.7%) and counseling for cessation (5.6%) were used less than nicotine patches (50.0%) or ‘other’ methods (50.0%), which included abstinence and nicotine gum (p<0.001).

Conclusion:

Despite a small and potentially unrepresentative sample of HIV positive tobacco smokers at our clinic, this study could help guide further research aiming to determine and address barriers to smoking cessation and access to effective smoking cessation aids in PLHIV. Future studies might consider factors that affect motivation to quit, such as co-morbid mental health and substance use disorders, or the attitudes of HIV healthcare providers.

Oral cannabinoids in people living with HIV on effective antiretroviral therapy: CTN PT028-study protocol for a pilot randomised trial to assess safety, tolerability and effect on immune activation

INTRODUCTION

Despite antiretroviral therapy (ART), people living with HIV have higher rates of non-infectious chronic diseases. These conditions are driven by relatively high levels of inflammation persisting on ART compared with uninfected individuals. Chronic inflammation also contributes to HIV persistence during ART. Cannabis when taken orally may represent a way to reduce inflammation and strengthen immune responses. Before planning large interventional studies, it is important to ensure that cannabis taken orally is safe and well tolerated in people living with HIV. We propose to conduct a pilot randomised trial to examine the safety and tolerability of cannabis oils containing tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) consumed orally in people living with HIV. We will also measure inflammatory markers, markers of HIV persistence in peripheral blood cells and changes in the gastrointestinal microbiome.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

Twenty-six people living with HIV having undetectable viral load for at least 3 years will be randomised to receive TN-TC11LM (THC:CBD in 1:1 ratio) or TN-TC19LM (THC:CBD in 1:9 ratio) capsules daily for 12 weeks. Safety and tolerability of these capsules will be assessed through haematological, hepatic and renal blood tests, face-to-face interviews and questionnaires. Proportions of participants without any signs of significant toxicity (grades 0-2 scores on the WHO toxicity scale) and who complete the study, as well as scores on quality of life and mood will be examined using descriptive statistics. The effects on inflammatory markers, markers of peripheral blood reservoir size and effect on the composition of the gastrointestinal microbiome will be assessed before and after study completion.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

This study has been approved by the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre. A Data Safety Monitor will review safety information at regular intervals. The final manuscript will be submitted to an open-access journal within 6 months of study completion.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT03550352.

Prevalence and predictors of airflow obstruction in an HIV tertiary care clinic in Montreal, Canada: a cross-sectional study

Objectives

The reported prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in people living with HIV (PLWHIV) varies widely. Our objective was to estimate the prevalence of airflow obstruction and COPD in unselected PLWHIV and identify characteristics that increase the risk of nonreversible airflow obstruction in order to guide case finding strategies for COPD.

Methods

All adults attending the Chronic Viral Illness Service were invited to participate in the study, regardless of smoking status or history of known COPD/asthma. Individuals underwent spirometric testing both before and after use of a salbutamol bronchodilator. Airflow obstruction was defined as forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV₁)/forced vital capacity (FVC) < 0.7 post‐bronchodilation, whereas COPD was defined as FEV₁/FVC < 0.7 post‐bronchodilation and Medical Research Council (MRC) score > 2. Multivariate logistic regression was used to evaluate risk factors associated with airflow obstruction, reported as adjusted odds ratios (aORs).

Results

Five hundred and three participants successfully completed spirometry testing. The median (Q1; Q3) age was 52 (44; 58) years. The median (Q1; Q3) CD4 count was 598 (438; 784) cells/μL and the median (Q1; Q3) nadir CD4 count was 224 (121; 351) cells/μL. There were 119 (24%) current smokers and 145 (29%) former smokers. Among those screened, 54 (11%) had airflow obstruction whereas three (1%) of the participants had COPD. Factors that were associated with airflow obstruction included a history of smoking [aOR 2.2; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.1; 4.7], older age (aOR 1.6; 95% CI 1.2; 2.2), and lower CD4 count (aOR 0.8; 95% CI 0.7; 1.0).

Conclusions

Airflow obstruction was relatively uncommon. Our findings suggest that PLWHIV who are ≥50 years old, smokers and those with nadir CD4 counts ≤ 200 cells/μL could be targeted to undergo spirometry to diagnose chronic airflow obstruction.

Multiple remissions of extracavitary primary effusion lymphoma treated with a single cycle of liposomal doxorubicin in a patient infected with HIV

Primary effusion lymphoma (pel) is a rare human herpesvirus 8 (hhv8)-related large B cell lymphoma with plasmablastic, immunoblastic, or anaplastic features that often carries a poor prognosis. This lymphoma occurs mainly in patients with hiv infection, most often with Epstein-Barr virus (ebv) co-infection, and usually presents as body cavity effusions or, less commonly, as extracavitary lesions without effusion (ec-pel). Chemotherapeutic treatment options are limited and require concurrent antiretroviral therapy (art). Here, we report the case of an adult patient with hiv infection and chronic hepatitis E virus (hev) co-infection who had low CD4 T cell recovery after years of art. The patient then developed a cutaneous ec-pel which rapidly regressed after 1 cycle of liposomal doxorubicin (ld) for his Kaposi sarcoma (ks) before treatment with chop chemotherapy. He had previously received numerous cycles of ld for cutaneous ks over 2 years. Because of the patient's low CD4 T cell count, hev co-infection, and earlier unexpected remission of ec-pel before chop, the patient opted for a single trial of ld before other options. Surprisingly, he experienced a complete remission lasting 18 months. Subsequently, his ec-pel relapsed twice at 31 and at 41 months after the initial diagnosis. Upon recurrence, a similar single cycle of ld was given, which again induced remission. The patient today is in complete remission after a total of 4 ld infusions over 54 months. This patient represents a unique case of hiv-with-hhv8-related, ebv-negative ec-pel with chronic hev coinfection, in which rapid remission was achieved after a single cycle of ld, suggesting an antiviral response in addition to the chemotherapeutic effect.

Evaluation of an environmentally sustainable UV-assisted water treatment system for the removal of Bacillus globigii spores in water

Development of greener water treatment technologies is important for the production of safe drinking water and water security applications, such as decontamination. Chlorine assisted disinfection is common and economical, but can generate disinfection byproducts (DBPs) that may be of health concern. DBPs are formed due to the reaction of chlorine with naturally occurring organic and inorganic substances in water. Currently, various innovative technologies are being developed as alternative approaches for preventing DBPs during water treatment. In this study, we evaluated the effectiveness of a novel combination of high efficiency flow filtration and UV disinfection treatment system for the removal of Bacillus globigii (B. globigii) spores in water. The filtration system consists of a charged membrane filter (CMF) that not only helps to remove suspended particles but also reduces the impact of other impurities including bio organisms. In order to get most performance details, the CMF was evaluated at clean, half-life, and end of life (EOL) conditions along with 100% UV transmittance (UVT). In addition, the effectiveness of the UV system was evaluated as a stand alone system at 100% and 70% EOL intensity. The study was conducted at the US EPA's Test and Evaluation (T&E) Facility in Cincinnati, OH, using B. globigii, a surrogate for B. anthracis spores. This non-chemical environmentally-friendly CMF/UV combination system and the stand alone UV unit showed greater than 6.0 log removal of B. globigii during the tests.

Angiocentric lymph proliferative disorder (lymphomatoid granulomatosis) in a person with newly-diagnosed HIV infection: a case report

Background

Angiocentric lymph proliferative disorder (ALPD) is a granulomatous lymphoproliferative condition associated with various primary and secondary immunodeficiency states. ALPD is so rare that its prevalence has not been established. Typically affecting middle-aged adults, this condition is often found in the context of Epstein Bar Virus infection and consists of angiocentric and angioinvasive pulmonary infiltrates. Herein, we present a biopsy-proven case of a patient manifesting with a viral meningoencephalomyelitis-like picture with brain, spinal cord, renal and splenic lesions. The diagnosis was confirmed to be ALPD in the context of newly diagnosed HIV infection.

Case presentation

A 35 year-old homosexual man presented with a 5-week history of headaches followed by a 3-week history of horizontal diplopia, limb weakness and right 6th cranial nerve palsy. Lumbar puncture revealed a lymphocytic pleocytosis, high protein and low glucose. Magnetic Resonance Imaging showed scattered lesions throughout the brain and spinal cord and Computed Tomography of the abdomen and pelvis revealed hypodensities involving the kidneys and spleen. HIV testing was positive, with a viral load of 11,096 copies/mL and CD4 count of 324 cells/μL. Serum Epstein Bar virus PCR was positive with 12,434 copies/ml. Right frontal brain biopsy revealed gray matter containing angiogentric cerebritis with organizing infarction but Epstein Bar Virus-in situ preparations were negative and no viral inclusions were identified. A diagnosis of ALPD (also known as lymphomatoid granulomatosis) was made. The patient was initiated on antiretroviral therapy and treated with intravenous rituximab every 3 weeks for 4 cycles and made progressive improvements. By the time of discharge his strength had improved and he was ambulating again although with a walker. Within 2 months, his HIV viral load was suppressed. Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the brain 6 months later revealed interval improvement. At his most recent follow-up, 34 months later, his neurological symptoms had almost completed resolved.

Conclusion

Albeit rare, ALPD should be considered in the differential diagnosis of central nervous system lesions in persons with HIV once common etiologies have been eliminated. Furthermore, ALPD involving the central nervous system may occur in in the absence of documented EBV infection in the central nervous system.

Socio-economic status and time trends associated with early ART initiation following primary HIV infection in Montreal, Canada: 1996 to 2015

INTRODUCTION

Guidelines regarding antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation in HIV infection have varied over time, with the 2015 World Health Organization recommendation suggesting ART initiation at the time of diagnosis regardless of CD4 T-cell counts. Herein, we investigated the influence of socio-demographic and clinical factors in addition to time trends on early ART initiation among participants of the Montreal Primary HIV Infection Study.

METHODS

The Montreal Primary HIV Infection Study is a prospective cohort established in three community medical centres (CMCs) and two university medical centres (UMCs). Recently diagnosed HIV-infected adults were categorized as receiving early (vs. delayed) ART if ART was initiated within 180 days of the baseline visit. Associations between early ART initiation and socio-demographic, socio-economic and behavioural information were examined. Independent associations of factors linked with early ART initiation were determined using multivariable binary logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 348 participants had a documented date of HIV acquisition of <180 days. The median interquartile range (IQR) age of participants was 35 (28; 42) years and the majority were male (96%), having paid employment (63%), men who have sex with men (MSM) (78%) and one to four sexual partners in the last three months (70%). Participants presented with a median IQR HIV plasma viral load of 4.6 (3.7; 5.3) log10 copies/ml, CD4 count of 510 (387; 660) cells/μl and were recruited in CMCs (52%) or UMCs (48%). Early ART initiation was observed in 47% of the participants and the trend followed a V-shaped curve with peaks in 1996 to 1997 (89%) and 2013 to 2015 (88%) with a dip in 2007 to 2009 (22%). Multivariable analyses showed that having a paid employment adjusted odds ratio (aOR: 2.43; 95% CI: 1.19, 4.95), lower CD4 count (aOR per 50 cell increase: 0.93; 95% CI: 0.87, 0.99) and care at UMCs (aOR: 2.03; 95% CI: 1.06 to 3.90) were independently associated with early ART initiation.

CONCLUSIONS

Early ART initiation during primary HIV infection was associated with diminished biological prognostic factors and calendar time mirroring evolution of treatment guidelines. In addition, socio-economic factors such as having a paid employment, contribute to early ART initiation in the context of universal access to care in Canada.

Screening for nonalcoholic steatohepatitis by using cytokeratin 18 and transient elastography in HIV mono-infection

BACKGROUND AND AIM

HIV-infected individuals are at high risk of developing nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a leading cause of end-stage liver disease in Western countries. Nonetheless, due to the invasiveness of liver biopsy, NASH remains poorly understood in HIV mono-infection. We aimed to characterize the prevalence and predictors of NASH in unselected HIV mono-infected patients by means of non-invasive diagnostic tools.

METHODS

HIV-infected adults without significant alcohol intake or co-infection with hepatitis B or C underwent a routine screening program employing transient elastography (TE) with controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) and the serum biomarker cytokeratin-18 (CK-18). NASH was diagnosed non-invasively as the coexistence of fatty liver (CAP ≥248 dB/m) and CK-18 >246 U/L. Identified cases of NASH were offered a diagnostic liver biopsy. Predictors of NASH were determined by multivariate logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

202 consecutive HIV mono-infected patients were included. NASH was non-invasively diagnosed in 23 cases (11.4%). Among them, 17 underwent a liver biopsy, and histology confirmed NASH in all cases. The prevalence of NASH was higher in patients with hypertriglyceridemia (17.1%), insulin resistance defined by homeostasis model for assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) (25%), those with detectable HIV viral load (42.9%) and those with elevated ALT (53.6%). After adjustment, higher HOMA-IR (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.20, 95% CI 1.01-1.43; p = 0.03) and ALT (aOR = 2.39, 95% CI 1.50-3.79; p<0.001) were independent predictors of NASH.

CONCLUSIONS

NASH, diagnosed by a non-invasive diagnostic approach employing CK-18 and TE with CAP, is common in unselected HIV mono-infected individuals, particularly in the presence of insulin resistance and elevated ALT.

Early Initiation Rather Than Prolonged Duration of Antiretroviral Therapy in HIV Infection Contributes to the Normalization of CD8 T-Cell Counts

BACKGROUND

CD8 T-cell counts remain elevated in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection even after long-term antiretroviral therapy (ART), which is associated with an increased risk of non-AIDS-related events. We assessed the impact of ART initiation in early versus chronic HIV infection on trajectories of CD8 cell counts over time.

METHODS

Of 280 individuals enrolled during primary HIV infection (PHI), 251 were followed up for 24 months; 84 started ART before 6 months of infection (eART), 49 started between 6 and 24 months, and 118 remained untreated. Plasma HIV viral load (VL), CD4 and CD8 cell counts were assessed at each study visit. CD8 counts were also examined in 182 age-matched HIV-infected individuals who started ART during chronic infection and maintained undetectable plasma VL for ≥5 years.

RESULTS

At PHI baseline, higher CD8 cell counts were associated with more recent infection (P = .02), higher CD4 cell counts (P < .001), and higher VL (P < .001). The CD8 count in the eART group decreased from 797 to 588 cells/µL over 24 months (P < .001), to a level lower than that in untreated PHI (834 cells/µL; P = .004) or in long-term-treated patients with chronic HIV infection (743 cells/µL; P = .047). More prominent CD4 T-cell recovery was observed in the eART group than in the delayed ART group.

CONCLUSIONS

ART initiated in early HIV infection is associated with improved resolution of CD8 T-cell elevation compared with long-term ART initiated in chronic infection. Early ART may help reduce the risk of non-AIDS-related events by alleviating this elevation.

Rapid progression to gummatous syphilitic hepatitis and neurosyphilis in a patient with newly-diagnosed HIV

We review the literature on hepatic involvement in patients with HIV and syphilis co-infection and describe a case of rapid progression to neurosyphilis and presumed gummatous syphilitic hepatitis in a patient newly diagnosed with HIV. To our knowledge, this is the first case of syphilitic hepatitis with gummas described in the HIV population.

Sci-Thur AM: Planning - 06: Planning target volume margin suitability in lung stereotactic body radiation therapy: A preliminary evaluation using cone-beam computed tomography

Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) requires precise delivery of radiation to the target; intra- and inter-fraction lung tumour motion may adversely impact local tumour control. The purpose of this study was to retrospectively evaluate the impact of planning target volume (PTV) margin size on the coverage of the internal target volume (ITV) as localized in pre- and post-treatment cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images. Data from two patients undergoing SBRT were evaluated. For planning, free-breathing and 4DCT scans were performed, and used to contour the ITV. A 5mm margin was added to create the PTV. During treatment, 14 CBCTs were collected pre- and post-beam delivery. A data set comprising the average 4DCT intensities where available and treatment planning CT intensities for voxels that were beyond the field of view of the 4DCT was constructed. Registration of the combined planning image to each CBCT was performed using a deformable image registration algorithm. The transformations aligning the combined planning image with the CBCTs were applied to the planning ITV to obtain the treatment ITVs. For each CBCT, the fraction of treatment ITV within the PTV was determined using Boolean logic. This was repeated for various PTV margins ranging from 0 to 10 mm at 1mm intervals. The 3 and 5 mm PTV margins covered 95.1 ± 5.9% and 99.0 ± 2.0% of the ITV, respectively. Analysis of additional patients will be performed to confirm these preliminary results, which reinforce the use of a 5mm PTV margin for lung SBRT.

Nongenomic effect of thyroid hormone on free-radical production in human polymorphonuclear leukocytes

Over the past few years increasing evidence has suggested the nongenomic effects of thyroid hormone, such as the activation of the signal transduction pathways and the activation of nuclear factor-kappaB by the induction of oxidative stress. The present study was undertaken to investigate the effect of thyroid hormone on human polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNLs) which are known as important sources of reactive oxygen species in the circulation. The production of superoxide anion (O2-) and the activity of myeloperoxidase were determined in the presence and absence of several inhibitors of the signalling pathway. L-thyroxine (T4) l-3,5,3'-tri-iodothyronine (T3) and L-3,5-di-iodothyronine (T2) stimulated O2- production in PMNLs in a dose-dependent manner within a few minutes of addition to cells. Thyroid hormone-stimulated O2- production was partially inhibited by pertussis toxin, an inhibitor of GTP-binding G protein, and was completely abolished by the protein kinase C inhibitors calphostin C and Ro-32-0432, and by a calcium chelator (BAPTA; bis-(o-aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N',N'-tetra-acetic acid). Thyroid hormone stimulated myeloperoxidase activity and induced 125I- incorporation into PMNLs. Furthermore, thyroid hormone pre-incubation enhanced O2- production for n-formyl-methionyl-leucyl- phenylalanine (FMLP) stimulation. In conclusion, novel nongenomic actions of thyroid hormone, the induction of superoxide anion production and the stimulation of myeloperoxidase activity in PMNLs were demonstrated. The induction of O2- production requires calcium and is mediated by a pertussis toxin-sensitive G protein via stimulation of protein kinase C(s). These results suggest the existence of a membrane-bound binding site for thyroid hormone in PMNLs and a physiological role for thyroid hormone in the cellular defence mechanisms by stimulating free-radical production.

SPECT using 99mTc-DTPA for the assessment of disease activity in Graves' ophthalmopathy: a comparison with the results from MRI

Currently available methods for the estimation of disease activity in the orbits of patients with Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO) have the disadvantages of being either expensive or time consuming. The aim of this study was to develop a quick, reliable method using Tc labelled diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA) and four-headed single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) for this purpose. The theoretical basis of the method is that the high capillarization and oedema in the orbit may be reflected on Tc-DTPA images in GO. SPECT data of 28 orbits of 14 patients with GO were compared with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) T2 relaxation time scores. Based on the number of 'active' muscles with T2 relaxation times of more than 70 ms in a given orbit, an MRI score of 0 (no active muscle) to 4 (all rectus muscles active) was assigned to the orbit. With MRI, 18 orbits were inactive, and 10 were active. Thirty minutes after the intravenous administration of 7 MBq.kg Tc-DTPA, 128 projections were acquired by a four-headed SPECT. On the sum of six transaxial slices containing the entire bulbar region of the skull, a triangle-like region of interest (ROI) was drawn (OR ROI). This ROI was 'slipped' to the right temporal region of the brain as reference site (B ROI). The count ratios of OR/B were calculated and compared to MRI score values. In the group of 18 inactive orbits (an MRI score of zero on both sides), in the transaxial plane, the mean OR/B value was 6.4+/-1.17, and in the group of 10 active orbits (an MRI score of 1-3) 8.30+/-2.08, the difference being significant (P <0.05). Tc-DTPA orbital SPECT is a promising method for the estimation of disease activity in the orbits of patients with Graves' ophthalmopathy.

In vitro cell irradiation systems based on 210Po alpha source: construction and characterisation

One way of studying the risk to human health of low-level radiation exposure is to make biological experiments on living cell cultures. Two 210Po alpha-particle emitting devices, with 0.5 and 100 MBq activity, were designed and constructed to perform such experiments irradiating monolayers of cells. Estimates of dose rate at the cell surface were obtained from measurements by a PIPS alpha-particle spectrometer and from calculations by the SRIM 2000, Monte Carlo charged particle transport code. Particle fluence area distributions were measured by solid state nuclear track detectors. The design and dosimetric characterisation of the devices are discussed.

Seeing is believing? The form and substance of French medical debates over Lourdes

Recent works on Lourdes have tended to emphasize the positive personal, social, and spiritual aspects of a pilgrimage, while downplaying the role of religious politics in (over)determining discussions around the events taking place there over the course of the Third Republic. This paper seeks to reassert the extent to which the medical community remained divided, along religious lines, over the existence and nature of the cures taking place at Lourdes well into the twentieth century, while analyzing how Catholic physicians were able to create an aura of therapeutic credibility around the cures.

The impact of increased blood flow rates on recirculation in central venous hemodialysis catheters

A recent practice change in our unit from Quinton dual lumen PermCaths to Vas-Cath Optiflow central venous catheters resulted in the routine achievement of bloodflow rates (BFR) of 500 ml/min. Previously BFRs of 300-400 ml/min were the norm. The increased BFR was achieved without any apparent increase in venous pressure, prompting us to consider the possibility that increased recirculation was occurring. This paper presents the results of a study designed to answer the following questions: (a) What is the difference in recirculation rates between Quinton dual lumen PermCaths and Vas-Cath Optiflow dual lumen catheters? and (b) What is the impact of increased BFR on recirculation rates in Optiflow hemodialysis catheters? The study documented recirculation rates in two groups of patients. In Group 1, the Optiflow group, recirculation rates were calculated for 10 subjects, first at 350 ml/min and then at 500 ml/min. In Group 2, the PermCath Group, recirculation rates were calculated for 10 subjects at 300 ml/min. Paired t-tests were performed to compare Group 1 at 350 ml/min with Group 2. No significant differences were found within or between groups suggesting that recirculation rates were not affected by increased BFR.

High throughput cell-based assay of hematopoietic progenitor differentiation

The in vitro efficacy of drug candidates relative to hematopoietic stem cell proliferation and differentiation is currently assayed through use of the clonogenic "colony assay." The extremely low throughput of this assay precludes its use in library screening and much drug discovery work. A rapid-throughput assay of progenitor cell differentiation based on the quantification of hematopoietic lineage-specific markers has been developed. The CELISA assay employs a single incubation with a lanthanide-conjugated primary antibody and subsequent time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy. The rapid-throughput nature of this assay is enhanced by the use of cell culture-compatible filter plates to reduce the number of manipulations as compared to currently available cell-based assays. The culture and assay are done in 96-well plates, and the quantitation process requires approximately 1 hour. The myeloid, erythroid, and megakaryocytic lineages can be objectively quantified; data from the assay correlate extremely well with data generated through use of the traditional colony assay. This assay makes possible both rapid-throughput drug discovery and toxicity screening in the area of hematopoiesis.

Growth and development in preterm infants fed long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids: a prospective, randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVES

A randomized, masked, controlled trial was conducted to assess effects of supplementing premature infant formulas with oils containing the long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, arachidonic acid (AA; 20:4 n6), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA; 22:6 n3) on growth, visual acuity, and multiple indices of development.

METHODS

Infants (N = 470) with birth weights 750 to 1800 g were assigned within 72 hours of the first enteral feeding to 1 of 3 formula groups with or without long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids: 1) control (N = 144), 2) AA+DHA from fish/fungal oil (N = 140), and 3) AA+DHA from egg-derived triglyceride (egg-TG)/fish oil (N = 143). Infants were fed human milk and/or Similac Special Care with or without 0.42% AA and 0.26% DHA to term corrected age (CA), then fed human milk or NeoSure with or without 0.42% AA and 0.16% DHA to 12 months' CA. Infants fed exclusively human milk to term CA (EHM-T; N = 43) served as a reference.

RESULTS

Visual acuity measured by acuity cards at 2, 4, and 6 months' CA was not different among groups. Visual acuity measured by swept-parameter visual-evoked potentials in a subgroup from 3 sites (45 control, 50 AA+DHA [fish/fungal]; 39 AA+DHA [egg-TG/fish]; and 23 EHM-T) was better in both the AA+DHA (fish/fungal; least square [LS] means [cycle/degree] +/- standard error [SE; octaves] 11.4 +/- 0.1) and AA+DHA (egg-TG/fish; 12.5 +/- 0.1) than control (8.4 +/- 0.1) and closer to that of the EHM-T group (16.0 +/- 0.2) at 6 months' CA. Visual acuity improved from 4 to 6 months' CA in all but the control group. Scores on the Fagan test of novelty preference were greater in AA+DHA (egg-TG/fish; LS means +/- SE, 59.4 +/- 7.7) than AA+DHA (fish/fungal; 57.0 +/- 7.5) and control (57.5 +/- 7.4) at 6 months' CA, but not at 9 months' CA. There were no differences in the Bayley Mental Development Index at 12 months' CA. However, the Bayley motor development index was higher for AA+DHA (fish/fungal; LS means +/- SE, 90.6 +/- 4.4) than control (81.8 +/- 4.3) for infants </=1250 g. When Spanish-speaking infants and twins were excluded from the analyses, the MacArthur Communicative Development Inventory revealed that control infants (LS means +/- SE, 94.1 +/- 2.9) had lower vocabulary comprehension at 14 months' CA than AA+DHA (fish/fungal) infants (100.6 +/- 2.9) or AA+DHA (egg-TG/fish) infants (102.2 +/- 2.8). There were no consistent differences in weight, length, head circumference, or anthropometric gains.

CONCLUSION

These results showed a benefit of supplementing formulas for premature infants with AA and DHA from either a fish/fungal or an egg-TG/fish source from the time of first enteral feeding to 12 months' CA.

Dealing with emergencies in rural areas of Europe: proceedings from WONCA Europe 2000

On 4 July 2000, two workshops on handling emergencies in rural areas of Europe were held at the WONCA (World Organisation of National Colleges and Academies of Family Medicine/General Practice) conference in Vienna under the auspices of EURIPA (European Rural and Isolated Practitioners' Association). Papers submitted covered varying patterns of service provision and examples of short intensive training for emergencies at resident and general practitioner levels. Ways of collecting data routinely for accident prevention were also discussed. The workshops concluded that there was a need for more research in the application of emergency skills, that lack of confidence in dealing with emergencies may contribute to recruitment problems, and that further work towards a document detailing training requirements for emergencies was needed. This will be developed at a EURIPA workshop at WONCA in Tampere, June 2001.

Prevalence of iodine deficiency and goitre during pregnancy in east Hungary

OBJECTIVE

To assess the iodine nutritional status and the prevalence of goitre during pregnancy in a region of Hungary that appeared to be iodine sufficient in previous studies.

DESIGN

A cross-sectional voluntary screening study was organized in which 313 pregnant women participated.

METHODS

Urine iodine concentration and the volume of the thyroid gland were measured in every woman. In the presence of low urinary iodine concentrations, goitre, or both, thyroid function tests were performed.

RESULTS

Iodine deficiency was found in 57.1% of the pregnant women, and was severe in 15.6%. The volume of the thyroid gland was enlarged in 19.2% of individuals. Nodular goitre was found in 17 women (5.4%). The frequency of goitre and the mean thyroid volume were increased in the group of iodine-deficient women. In the 89 cases of iodine deficiency or goitre, thyrotrophin concentrations were in the normal range; however, the free triiodothyronine:free throxine ratio was increased in 97% of them, indicating that the thyroid gland was in a stimulated state in these individuals.

CONCLUSIONS

Iodine deficiency with high prevalence of goitre was recognized among pregnant women in an area that previously appeared to be iodine sufficient. An unexpected mild iodine deficiency was also noted in the non-pregnant control group. Reassessment and continuous monitoring of iodine nutritional status is warranted even in populations that are apparently considered to be 'at no risk' of iodine deficiency, especially in pregnant women. Regular administration of iodine, starting at preconception or in early pregnancy and continuing during the period of nursing, is recommended in these regions.

Follow-up of prostate carcinoma patients treated with total androgen blockade by repeated map-biopsy

A prospective study was carried out on ten patients with prostate cancer. The TNM stage, Gleason's grade, general clinical status and, serum PSA level were all registered by the time of diagnosis. Total androgen blockade (TAB) was performed. Serum PSA control and general clinical examination re-biopsy was performed on average 107 days after the start of the therapy. The pre- and post treatment histology included HE and Tunel reaction to show apoptotic cells, as well as p53, bcl2 and Ki67 immunostaining. Clinical improvement of the disease, manifested by regression or by steady state was observed in all ten patients. An increase of apoptotic index, and a decrease of mitotic index was detected in most cases. The serum PSA level decreased in all patients. Ki67, bcl2 and mutant p53 were strongly expressed in tumor cells of patients in whom Gleason's grade was 7 or higher and decreased markedly in all cases upon therapy. Data obtained by repeated biopsy in the course of TAB therapy are indicators of the effectiveness of TAB, like changes in serum PSA, and may be considered as predictive factors.

Graves' ophthalmopathy: eye muscle involvement in patients with diplopia

BACKGROUND

Diplopia identifies patients with eye muscle involvement in Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO).

OBJECTIVE

To identify clinical parameters that could eliminate the need for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to assess the activity of inflammation in the eye muscles of GO patients with diplopia.

METHODS

In 43 patients with GO with recently developed diplopia, orbital ultrasound and MRI were performed. Muscle diameters and MRI T2 relaxation times were measured, and the amount of orbital connective tissue was calculated from MRI scans and compared with ultrasound readings, diplopia grades, degree of protrusion, ocular pressure, tear production, antibody levels and hormonal parameters of thyroid function.

RESULTS

No correlation was found between diameters of 233 extraocular muscles measured by MRI and by ultrasound. For each of the four muscles, there was a diameter above which ultrasound was always unreliable. MRI data were used in further analysis. Of the muscles examined, the inferior rectuses were the most frequently enlarged - at least one, in 93% of cases. Medial, lateral and superior rectuses were enlarged in 59%, 37% and 34% of the orbits respectively. The pattern of muscle involvement of the two orbits tended to be symmetric (r=0.49, P=0.003), particularly for the medial rectuses (r=0.90, P=0.000). Proptosis correlated with the sum of the muscle diameters for a given eye (right eye: r=0.54, P=0.003; left eye: r=0.57, P=0.001), but it failed to correlate with the amount of orbital connective tissue. In 53% of the patients, normal T2 relaxation times were found in all eight muscles. There was only a weak correlation between muscle thickness and T2 relaxation time (r=0.49, P=0.003), indicating that muscle enlargement alone is not a sign of disease activity. The severity of diplopia was independent of T2 relaxation time. The amount of orbital connective tissue showed a negative correlation with the greatest T2 relaxation time for a given eye (r= -0.52, P=0.004); this suggests that disease types exist that have predominant muscle involvement and predominant connective tissue expansion. No correlation between connective tissue expansion and proptosis, diplopia grade, muscle thickness or disease duration was found - that is, connective tissue expansion is not a major factor in diplopia. Both muscle and connective tissue findings were independent of thyroid function.

CONCLUSION

Ultrasound and MRI eye muscle diameter readings do not correlate, because of the inherent inaccuracy of orbital ultrasound. Muscle enlargement alone does not mean oedematous swelling and active disease. Neither ultrasound, nor any combination of 11 clinical and laboratory parameters provided the degree of information on muscles and connective tissue that was obtainable by MRI. In unclear cases of recently developed diplopia, before orbital decompression surgery, in the case of treatment failure or if, for any other reason, imaging is needed in GO, MRI is the method of choice.