Vulvovaginitis in pregnant women

• The balanced vaginal microbiome is the main factor defending the vaginal environment against infections. Lactobacilli play a key role in this regard, maintaining the vaginal pH within the normal range (3.8 to 4.5). •Hormonal and immune adaptations resulting from pregnancy influence changes in the vaginal microbiome during pregnancy. •An altered vaginal microbiome predisposes to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. •Bacterial vaginosis is the main clinical expression of an imbalanced vaginal microbiome. •Vulvovaginal candidiasis depends more on the host's conditions than on the etiological agent. •Trichomonas vaginalis is a protozoan transmitted during sexual intercourse. •The use of probiotics is not approved for use in pregnant women.

Multiscale Optical Imaging Fusion for Cervical Precancer Diagnosis: Integrating Widefield Colposcopy and High-Resolution Endomicroscopy

OBJECTIVE

Early detection and treatment of cervical precancers can prevent disease progression. However, in low-resource communities with a high incidence of cervical cancer, high equipment costs and a shortage of specialists hinder preventative strategies. This manuscript presents a low-cost multiscale in vivo optical imaging system coupled with a computer-aided diagnostic system that could enable accurate, real-time diagnosis of high-grade cervical precancers.

METHODS

The system combines portable colposcopy and high-resolution endomicroscopy (HRME) to acquire spatially registered widefield and microscopy videos. A multiscale imaging fusion network (MSFN) was developed to identify cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 or more severe (CIN 2+). The MSFN automatically identifies and segments the ectocervix and lesions from colposcopy images, extracts nuclear morphology features from HRME videos, and integrates the colposcopy and HRME information.

RESULTS

With a threshold value set to achieve sensitivity equal to clinical impression (0.98 [p = 1.0]), the MSFN achieved a significantly higher specificity than clinical impression (0.75 vs. 0.43, p = 0.000006).

CONCLUSION

Our findings show that multiscale optical imaging of the cervix allows the highly sensitive and specific detection of high-grade precancers.

SIGNIFICANCE

The multiscale imaging system and MSFN could facilitate the accurate, real-time diagnosis of cervical precancers in low-resource settings.

Development of a multimodal mobile colposcope for real-time cervical cancer detection

Cervical cancer remains a leading cause of cancer death among women in low-and middle-income countries. Globally, cervical cancer prevention programs are hampered by a lack of resources, infrastructure, and personnel. We describe a multimodal mobile colposcope (MMC) designed to diagnose precancerous cervical lesions at the point-of-care without the need for biopsy. The MMC integrates two complementary imaging systems: 1) a commercially available colposcope and 2) a high speed, high-resolution, fiber-optic microendoscope (HRME). Combining these two image modalities allows, for the first time, the ability to locate suspicious cervical lesions using widefield imaging and then to obtain co-registered high-resolution images across an entire lesion. The MMC overcomes limitations of high-resolution imaging alone; widefield imaging can be used to guide the placement of the high-resolution imaging probe at clinically suspicious regions and co-registered, mosaicked high-resolution images effectively increase the field of view of high-resolution imaging. Representative data collected from patients referred for colposcopy at Barretos Cancer Hospital in Brazil, including 22,800 high resolution images and 9,900 colposcope images, illustrate the ability of the MMC to identify abnormal cervical regions, image suspicious areas with subcellular resolution, and distinguish between high-grade and low-grade dysplasia.

Adverse Neonatal Outcomes Associated With Maternal Sexually Transmitted Infections From a Public Health Clinic Cohort in Southern Brazil

Pregnant women at public medical centers in Porto Alegre, Brazil, were recruited for a study on screening and treatment of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). STIs were detected in 79 (23%) of 350 pregnant women and were found to be associated with infant low birth weight (adjusted odds ratio 5.8; 95% confidence interval 1.9-18).

Effect of Maternal Vaccination of PCV-10, PPV-23 or Placebo on the Immunogenicity of PCV-10 in HIV-exposed Uninfected Infants: A Randomized Clinical Trial

BACKGROUND

The effect of pneumococcal vaccination of mothers with HIV on infant responses to childhood vaccination has not been studied. We compared the immunogenicity of PCV-10 in HIV-exposed uninfected infants born to mothers who received PCV-10, PPV-23 or placebo during pregnancy.

METHODS

Antibody levels against seven serotypes were measured at birth, before the 1 st and 2 nd doses of PCV-10 and after the completion of the 2-dose regimen in 347 infants, including 112 born to mothers who received PPV-23, 112 PCV-10, and 119 placebo during pregnancy. Seroprotection was defined by antibody levels ≥0.35µg/ml.

RESULTS

At birth and 8 weeks of life, antibody levels were similar in infants born to PCV-10- or PPV-23-recipient mothers and higher than infants of placebo-recipient mothers. After the last dose of PCV-10, infants in the maternal PCV-10 group had significantly lower antibody levels against five serotypes compared to infants in the maternal PPV-23 group; against three serotypes compared to infants in the maternal placebo group; and did not have higher antibody levels against any serotype. The seroprotection rate against seven serotypes was 50% in infants in the maternal PCV-10 compared to 71% in each of the maternal PPV-23 and placebo groups (p<0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Administration of PCV-10 during pregnancy was associated with decreased antibody responses to PCV-10 and seroprotection rates in infants. Considering that PCV-10 and PPV-23 had similar immunogenicity in pregnant women with HIV and that administration of PPV-23 did not affect the immunogenicity of PCV-10 in infants, PPV-23 in pregnancy may be preferred over PCV-10.

Interactions between etonogestrel-releasing contraceptive implant and 3 antiretroviral regimens

OBJECTIVES

Long-acting reversible contraceptives are effective contraceptives for women with HIV, but there are limited data on etonogestrel implant and antiretroviral therapy pharmacokinetic drug-drug interactions. We evaluated etonogestrel/antiretroviral therapy drug-drug interactions, and the effects of etonogestrel on ritonavir-boosted-atazanavir, ritonavir-boosted-lopinavir, and efavirenz pharmacokinetics.

STUDY DESIGN

We enrolled postpartum women using etonogestrel implants and receiving ritonavir-boosted-atazanavir, ritonavir-boosted-lopinavir, or efavirenz-based regimens between 2012 and 2015. Etonogestrel implants were inserted 2 to 12 weeks postpartum. We performed pharmacokinetic sampling pre-etonogestrel insertion and 6 to 7 weeks postinsertion. We measured antiretroviral concentrations pre and postetonogestrel insertion, and compared etonogestrel concentrations between antiretroviral regimens. We considered a minimum serum etonogestrel concentration of 90 pg/mL adequate for ovulation suppression.

RESULTS

We collected pharmacokinetic data for 74 postpartum women, 22 on ritonavir-boosted-atazanavir, 26 on ritonavir-boosted-lopinavir, and 26 on efavirenz. The median serum concentrations of etonogestrel when co-administered were highest with etonogestrel/ritonavir-boosted-atazanavir (604 pg/mL) and etonogestrel/ritonavir-boosted-lopinavir (428 pg/mL), and lowest with etonogestrel/efavirenz (125 pg/mL); p < 0.001. Minimum concentration (C_min) of ritonavir-boosted-atazanavir and ritonavir-boosted-lopinavir were lower after etonogestrel implant insertion, but overall exposure, predose concentrations, clearance, and half-lives were unchanged. We found no significant change in efavirenz exposure after etonogestrel insertion.

CONCLUSIONS

Unlike efavirenz, ritonavir-boosted-atazanavir and ritonavir-boosted-lopinavir were not associated with significant decreases in etonogestrel concentrations. Efavirenz was associated with a significant decrease in etonogestrel concentrations.

IMPLICATIONS

The findings demonstrate no interactions between etonogestrel and ritonavir-boosted-lopinavir or ritonavir-boosted-atazanavir, but confirm the decreased efficacy of etonogestrel with efavirenz-based antiretrovirals. This information should be used to counsel women with HIV who desire long-acting reversible contraceptives.

Diagnosis and treatment of sexually transmitted infections in male partners of pregnant women in Brazil

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can adversely affect a woman's pregnancy and the health of the developing fetus. The source of these infections may be the male sexual partner who remains under-diagnosed and un-treated due to a combination of lack of symptoms, decreased access to health care, and poor health-seeking behaviors. From September 2018 to November 2019, we offered a cohort of pregnant women (gestational age range: 4.6-41 weeks) clinic-based STI testing for HIV and syphilis (via lateral flow assay rapid tests) and for Neisseria (N.) gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia (C.) trachomatis, and Trichomonas (T.) vaginalis (via PCR-based testing) at Santa Casa Hospital and 10 affiliated prenatal clinics in Porto Alegre, Brazil. 400 women between the ages of 18 and 46 years (mean age: 27 years) enrolled and 24% were diagnosed with an STI. Each woman enrolled agreed to invite their male partners to clinic for the same panel of STI testing, and 255 men (64%) between the ages of 18 and 64 years (mean age: 29 years) attended clinic and all accepted full intervention. In these male partners, 40 (16%) were diagnosed with an STI including 22 (8.7%) testing positive for C. trachomatis, 15 (6%) for treponemal antibody (syphilis), 7 (2.8%) for T. vaginalis, 3 (1.2%) for N. gonorrhoeae, and 1 (0.4%) for HIV antibody. In our multivariate analysis, having symptoms of an STI (AOR 4.5, 95% CI 1.3-15.2) and arguing about jealousy (AOR 3.1, 95% CI 1.2-8.2) remained significantly associated with male diagnosis of an STI. Sexually transmitted infections are common in sexual partners of pregnant women in Brazil and should be addressed to prevent reinfection of pregnant women.

Two cases of neural tube defects with dolutegravir use at conception in south Brazil

Dolutegravir (DTG) is amongst the most prescribed antiretrovirals worldwide and is recommended as first line regimen in most HIV treatment guidelines. Its use, although infrequently, had been associated to an increased chance of neural tube defects (NTD) in Botswana, Africa. Herein we describe two cases of NTD in women who conceived while taking DTG as part of their antiretroviral treatment in the city of Porto Alegre, Brazil.

High Prevalence of Sexually Transmitted Infections in Pregnant Women Living in Southern Brazil

BACKGROUND

Porto Alegre, Brazil, has the highest rates of congenital syphilis and HIV in the country. Other treatable sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are associated with poor pregnancy and neonatal outcomes, but are only diagnosed by syndromic algorithms.

METHODS

Between September 2018 and November 2019, we offered all pregnant women clinic-based STI testing for HIV antibody and treponemal antibody (via lateral flow assay rapid tests provided by the Brazilian Government) and for Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis, and Trichomonas vaginalis (via polymerase chain reaction-based testing provided by Gene Xpert, Sunnyvale, CA) in 10 public prenatal health clinics in Porto Alegre. Participating women answered a brief survey via audio computer-assisted survey instrument regarding demographics, partnerships, and sexual behaviors. All infected individuals received appropriate treatment and referrals.

RESULTS

Of 400 pregnant women recruited, 94 (24%) were diagnosed with an STI, including 2% with HIV, 11% with syphilis, 9% with chlamydia, 1% with gonorrhea, 5% with trichomoniasis, and 3% with more than 1 STI. In our multivariate analysis, younger age (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 1.1; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1-1.2), being non-White (AOR, 1.8; 95% CI, 1.1-3.1), having less education (AOR, 2; 95% CI, 1.2-3.4), and having a relationship <1 year (AOR, 2; 95% CI, 1.1-3.6) were all independent predictors of women having an STI. Endorsing symptoms of an STI (e.g., vaginal ulcers/lesions and vaginal discharge) was not predictive of having a laboratory-diagnosed STI (OR, 1.1; 95% CI, 0.7-1.7).

CONCLUSIONS

Etiologic-based screening for STIs was uniformly accepted by women attending both hospital-based and primary health clinics in the south of Brazil and can result in appropriate treatment of pregnant women.

Efavirenz pharmacokinetics during pregnancy and infant washout

BACKGROUND

Limited data exist on efavirenz pharmacokinetics in HIV-positive pregnant women and neonatal washout.

METHODS

HIV-infected pregnant women receiving 600 mg efavirenz once daily had intensive steady-state 24-h pharmacokinetics profiles during the second trimester (2T), third trimester (3T) and 6-12 weeks postpartum (PP). Maternal and umbilical cord blood samples were drawn at delivery and neonatal washout pharmacokinetics were determined. Therapeutic targets were the estimated 10th percentile efavirenz area under the concentration-time curve (AUC) in non-pregnant historical controls (40.0 μg•h/ml) and a trough concentration (C_{24 h}) of 1 μg/ml. Data were prospectively collected within two trials: IMPAACT P1026s (United States) and PANNA (Europe).

RESULTS

Among 42 women studied, 15, 42 and 40 had efavirenz pharmacokinetic data available in 2T, 3T and PP, respectively. Median (range) 3T age 33 (20.7-43.5) years, weight 74 (50-132) kg and gestational age 33.4 (28.4-37.9 weeks). Efavirenz AUC during the 3T (60 μg•h/ml) was similar to that reported in non-pregnant adults (58 μg•h/ml). Exposure in the 2T was lower, but within the 0.80-1.25 range. C₂₄ concentrations during pregnancy were lower compared to historical controls on 600 mg efavirenz, however, they were similar to the C₂₄ concentrations after equally potent dose of 400 mg efavirenz. Cord blood/maternal plasma concentration ratio (range) was 0.67 (0.36-0.95). Among 23 infants with washout data available, median (interquartile range) elimination half-life was 65.6 h (40.6-129). HIV RNA viral loads at delivery were <400 and <50 copies/ml for 96.7% and 86.7% of women, respectively. In 3T and PP, respectively, 8/41 (19%) and 6/40 (15%) had AUC below target; 7/41 (17%) and 3/39 (8%) had C₂₄ below target.

CONCLUSIONS

Efavirenz exposure was similar during pregnancy compared with PP, C₂₄ was in line with C24 after 400 mg equipotent efavirenz dosing. Efavirenz readily crossed the placenta and infant elimination half-life was over twice that of maternal participants. Clincaltrials.gov identifiers: NCT00825929 and NCT00042289.

Human Immunodeficiency Virus Antiretroviral Resistance and Transmission in Mother-Infant Pairs Enrolled in a Large Perinatal Study

Background

The presence of antiretroviral drug-associated resistance mutations (DRMs) may be particularly problematic in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected pregnant women as it can lead to mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of resistant HIV strains. This study evaluated the prevalence and the effect of antiretroviral DRMs in previously untreated mother-infant pairs.

Methods

A case-control design of 1:4 (1 transmitter to 4 nontransmitters) was utilized to evaluate DRMs as a predictor of HIV MTCT in specimens obtained from mother-infant pairs. ViroSeq HIV-1 genotyping was performed on mother-infant specimens to assess for clinically relevant DRMs.

Results

One hundred forty infants acquired HIV infection; of these, 123 mother-infant pairs (88%) had specimens successfully amplified using ViroSeq and assessed for drug resistance genotyping. Additionally, 483 of 560 (86%) women who did not transmit HIV to infants also had samples evaluated for DRMs. Sixty-three of 606 (10%) women had clinically relevant DRMs; 12 (2%) had DRMs against >1 drug class. Among 123 HIV-infected infants, 13 (11%) had clinically relevant DRMs, with 3 (2%) harboring DRMs against >1 drug class. In univariate and multivariate analyses, DRMs in mothers were not associated with increased HIV MTCT (adjusted odds ratio, 0.8 [95% confidence interval, .4-1.5]). Presence of DRMs in transmitting mothers was strongly associated with DRM presence in their infants (P < .001).

Conclusions

Preexisting DRMs were common in untreated HIV-infected pregnant women, but did not increase the risk of HIV MTCT. However, if women with DRMs are not virologically suppressed, they may transmit resistant mutations, thus complicating infant management.

Pharmacokinetics of Increased Nelfinavir Plasma Concentrations in Women During Pregnancy and Postpartum

This study aims to evaluate the safety, acceptability, and pharmacokinetics (PK) of an increased dose of nelfinavir (NFV) during the third trimester of pregnancy. The study was registered as part of the International Maternal Pediatric Adolescent AIDS Clinical Trials network (IMPAACT-P1026s), an ongoing multicenter prospective cohort study of antiretroviral PK during pregnancy (NCT00042289). NFV intensive PK evaluations were performed at steady state during the third trimester of pregnancy and 2-3 weeks postpartum. Plasma concentrations of NFV and its active metabolite, hydroxyl-tert-butylamide (M8) were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection. A total of 18 women are included in the analysis. NFV area under the concentration-time curve (AUC) with the increased dose during the third trimester was nearly identical to the standard dose postpartum, with a geometric mean ratio for third trimester to postpartum AUC of 0.98 (90%CI 0.71-1.35). Despite the increased dose, M8 AUC was lower during the third trimester compared to postpartum (0.53, IQR [0.38-0.75]), as was the M8/NFV AUC ratio (0.51, IQR [0.42-0.63]). NFV AUC_0-12 was above target in 15 of 18 (83%) of participants during the third trimester compared to 14 of 16 (88%) postpartum. No major safety concerns were noted. Increasing the NFV dose to 1875 mg twice daily during the third trimester achieved similar concentrations postpartum compared to standard dosing (1250 mg twice daily). Increased NFV dose regimens may still have some benefit to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive pregnant women living in countries where novel protease inhibitors are currently unavailable or in individuals who are intolerant to ritonavir-boosted HIV medications.

Congenital Cytomegalovirus and HIV Perinatal Transmission

BACKGROUND

Congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection (cCMV) is an important cause of hearing loss and cognitive impairment. Prior studies suggest that HIV-exposed children are at higher risk of acquiring cCMV. We assessed the presence, magnitude and risk factors associated with cCMV among infants born to HIV-infected women, who were not receiving antiretrovirals during pregnancy.

METHODS

cCMV and urinary CMV load were determined in a cohort of infants born to HIV-infected women not receiving antiretrovirals during pregnancy. Neonatal urines obtained at birth were tested for CMV DNA by qualitative and reflex quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

Urine specimens were available for 992 (58.9%) of 1684 infants; 64 (6.5%) were CMV-positive. Mean CMV load (VL) was 470,276 copies/ml (range: < 200-2,000,000 copies/ml). Among 89 HIV-infected infants, 16 (18%) had cCMV versus 42 (4.9%) of 858 HIV-exposed, uninfected infants (P < 0.0001). cCMV was present in 23.2% of infants with in utero and 9.1% infants with intrapartum HIV infection (P < 0.0001). Rates of cCMV among HIV-infected infants were 4-fold greater (adjusted OR, 4.4; 95% CI: 2.3-8.2) and 6-fold greater among HIV in utero-infected infants (adjusted OR, 6; 95% CI: 3-12.1) compared with HIV-exposed, uninfected infants. cCMV was not associated with mode of delivery, gestational age, Apgar scores, 6-month infant mortality, maternal age, race/ethnicity, HIV viral load or CD4 count. Primary cCMV risk factors included infant HIV-infection, particularly in utero infection.

CONCLUSION

High rates of cCMV with high urinary CMV VL were observed in HIV-exposed infants. In utero HIV infection appears to be a major risk factor for cCMV in infants whose mothers have not received combination antiretroviral therapy in pregnancy.

Combined evaluation of sexually transmitted infections in HIV-infected pregnant women and infant HIV transmission

Background

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) including Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG), Treponema pallidum (TP), and cytomegalovirus (CMV) may lead to adverse pregnancy and infant outcomes. The role of combined maternal STIs in HIV mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) was evaluated in mother-infant pairs from NICHD HPTN 040.

Methodology

Urine samples from HIV-infected pregnant women during labor were tested by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for CT, NG, and CMV. Infant HIV infection was determined by serial HIV DNA PCR testing. Maternal syphilis was tested by VDRL and confirmatory treponemal antibodies.

Results

A total of 899 mother-infant pairs were evaluated. Over 30% had at least one of the following infections (TP, CT, NG, and/or CMV) detected at the time of delivery. High rates of TP (8.7%), CT (17.8%), NG (4%), and CMV (6.3%) were observed. HIV MTCT was 9.1% (n = 82 infants). HIV MTCT was 12.5%, 10.3%, 11.1%, and 26.3% among infants born to women with CT, TP, NG or CMV respectively. Forty-two percent of HIV-infected infants were born to women with at least one of these 4 infections. Women with these infections were nearly twice as likely to have an HIV-infected infant (aOR 1.9, 95% CI 1.1–3.0), particularly those with 2 STIs (aOR 3.4, 95% CI 1.5–7.7). Individually, maternal CMV (aOR 4.4 1.5–13.0) and infant congenital CMV (OR 4.1, 95% CI 2.2–7.8) but not other STIs (TP, CT, or NG) were associated with an increased risk of HIV MTCT.

Conclusion

HIV-infected pregnant women identified during labor are at high risk for STIs. Co-infection with STIs including CMV nearly doubles HIV MTCT risk. CMV infection appears to confer the largest risk of HIV MTCT.

Trial registration

NCT00099359.

Cytomegalovirus Urinary Shedding in HIV-infected Pregnant Women and Congenital Cytomegalovirus Infection

BACKGROUND

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) urinary shedding in pregnant women infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) was evaluated to determine whether it poses an increased risk for congenital CMV infection (cCMV).

METHODS

A subset of mother-infant pairs enrolled in the perinatal NICHD HPTN 040 study (distinguished by no antiretroviral use before labor) was evaluated. Maternal and infant urines were tested by qualitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for CMV DNA with quantitative RT-PCR performed on positive specimens.

RESULTS

Urine specimens were available for 260 women with 85.4% from the Americas and 14.6% from South Africa. Twenty-four women (9.2%) had detectable CMV viruria by qualitative PCR. Maternal CMV viruria was not associated with mean CD4 cell counts or HIV viral load but was associated with younger maternal age (P = .02). Overall, 10 of 260 infants (3.8%) had cCMV. Women with detectable peripartum CMV viruria were more likely to have infants with cCMV than those without: 20.8% (5/24) versus 2.1% (5/236), (P = .0001). Women with CMV viruria had significantly higher rates of HIV perinatal transmission (29.2% vs. 8.1%, P = .002). They were 5 times (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 5.6, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.9-16.8) and nearly 30 times (aOR, 29.7; 95% CI, 5.4-164.2) more likely to transmit HIV and CMV to their infants, respectively. Maternal gonorrhea (aOR, 19.5; 95% CI, 2.5-151.3) and higher maternal HIV log10 viral load (OR, 2.8; 95% CI, 1.3-6.3) were also significant risk factors for cCMV.

CONCLUSION

In this cohort of HIV-infected pregnant women not on antiretrovirals, urinary CMV shedding was a significant risk factor for CMV and HIV transmission to infants.

CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT00099359.

Bone Age and Mineral Density Assessments Using Plain Roentgenograms in Tenofovir-exposed Infants in Malawi and Brazil Enrolled in HIV Prevention Trials Network 057

BACKGROUND

Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) use during pregnancy has been increasing, and studies linking bone toxicity with exposure to TDF have raised concern for its use in infants.

METHODS

Hand/wrist and spine radiographs were obtained at 3 days and 12 weeks of age in infants born to HIV-infected pregnant women enrolled in the HIV Prevention Trials Network 057 pharmacokinetic study of TDF conducted in Malawi and Brazil assigned to 3 TDF dosing cohorts. In cohort 1, mothers received 600 mg of TDF during labor. In cohort 2, infants received 4 mg/kg dose on days 0, 3 and 5. In cohort 3, a 900 mg maternal dose was given during labor, followed by a 6 mg/kg infant dose on days 0, 3 and 5 of life.

RESULTS

Across all 3 cohorts, 89 infants had radiographs performed at either time point, and 85 had radiographs performed at both time points. Metaphyseal lucency was present in 1 case in Brazil and 2 in Malawi. Fifteen percent of infants from Brazil and 9% of infants from Malawi presented bone age discrepancies. No other abnormalities were identified in Brazil, whereas in Malawi, there were 7 more cases of wrist osteopenia, 2 of spine osteopenia and 3 other abnormalities.

CONCLUSION

Bone abnormalities were not uncommon in the overall cohort of HIV-exposed infants. Because of very limited study drug exposure at the time of birth, it is unlikely that TDF was associated with these findings. Untreated maternal HIV disease and/or maternal nutritional status could potentially be related to fetal bone development. This association should be explored in future cohort studies.

Maraviroc Pharmacokinetics in HIV-1-Infected Pregnant Women

OBJECTIVE

To describe the pharmacokinetics of maraviroc in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected women during pregnancy and post partum.

METHODS

HIV-infected pregnant women receiving maraviroc as part of clinical care had intensive steady-state 12-hour pharmacokinetic profiles performed during the third trimester and ≥2 weeks after delivery. Cord blood samples and matching maternal blood samples were taken at delivery. The data were collected in 2 studies: P1026 (United States) and PANNA (Europe). Pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated.

RESULTS

Eighteen women were included in the analysis. Most women (12; 67%) received 150 mg of maraviroc twice daily with a protease inhibitor, 2 (11%) received 300 mg twice daily without a protease inhibitor, and 4 (22%) had an alternative regimen. The geometric mean ratios for third-trimester versus postpartum maraviroc were 0.72 (90% confidence interval, .60-.88) for the area under the curve over a dosing interval (AUCtau) and 0.70 (0.58-0.85) for the maximum maraviroc concentration. Only 1 patient showed a trough concentration (Ctrough) below the suggested target of 50 ng/mL, both during pregnancy and post partum. The median ratio of maraviroc cord blood to maternal blood was 0.33 (range, 0.03-0.56). The viral load close to delivery was <50 copies/mL in 13 women (76%). All children were HIV negative at testing.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall maraviroc exposure during pregnancy was decreased, with a reduction in AUCtau and maximum concentration of about 30%. Ctrough was reduced by 15% but exceeded the minimum Ctrough target concentration. Therefore, the standard adult dose seems sufficient in pregnancy.

CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION

NCT00825929 and NCT000422890.

Repeat pregnancy in women with HIV infection in Latin America and the Caribbean

Intended and unintended pregnancies occur frequently among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected women. We evaluated the occurrence of repeat pregnancy and characteristics associated with this outcome among HIV-infected women in Latin America and the Caribbean who were participating in the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) International Site Development Initiative (NISDI). Of the 1342 HIV-infected pregnant women enrolled in NISDI, 124 (9.2%) had one or more repeat pregnancies on study. Median time between the index delivery and date of conception of the subsequent pregnancy was 1.4 years (range 0.1-5.7). Younger age (odds ratio [OR] = 1.07, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.04-1.11 per one year decrease in age), hospitalization during the index pregnancy or up to six months post-partum [OR = 2.0, 95% CI: 1.2-3.4], and poor index pregnancy outcome (stillbirth or spontaneous/therapeutic abortion; OR = 3.4, 95% CI: 1.4-8.4) were associated with increased occurrence of repeat pregnancy in multivariable analysis. Among women with repeat pregnancies, the proportion receiving antiretroviral treatment (vs. prophylaxis) increased from 39.4% at the time of the index pregnancy to 81.8% at the time of the repeat pregnancy (p < 0.001). These results can help identify women most likely to benefit from reproductive counseling in order to assist with healthy pregnancy planning and prevention of unintended pregnancies.

Long-term postpartum adherence to antiretroviral drugs among women in Latin America

Antiretroviral adherence in the postpartum period is crucial for maternal health and decreasing the risk of mother-to-child HIV transmission and transmission to sexual partners. Self-reported antiretroviral adherence was examined between 6- to 12-weeks and 30 months postpartum among 270 HIV-infected women enrolled in a prospective cohort study from 2008 to 2010 at multiple sites in Latin America. Adherence data were collected at each study visit to quantify the proportion of prescribed antiretrovirals taken during the previous three days, assess the timing of the last missed dose, and identify predictors of adherence. Mean adherence rates were 89.5% at 6-12 weeks and 92.4% at 30 months; the proportions with perfect adherence were 80.3% and 83.6%, respectively. The overall trend for perfect adherence was not significant (p = 0.71). In adjusted regression modelling, younger age was associated with an increased probability of non-perfect adherence at 18 and 24 months postpartum. Other factors associated with increased probability of non-perfect adherence were higher parity, current use of alcohol and tobacco, and more advanced HIV disease. Women with perfect adherence had lower viral loads. Interventions for alcohol and tobacco use cessation, and support for young women and those with advanced HIV disease should be considered to improve postpartum adherence.

Syphilis in HIV-infected mothers and infants: results from the NICHD/HPTN 040 study

BACKGROUND

Untreated syphilis during pregnancy is associated with spontaneous abortion, stillbirth, prematurity and infant mortality. Syphilis may facilitate HIV transmission, which is especially concerning in low- and middle-income countries where both diseases are common.

METHODS

We performed an analysis of data available from NICHD/HPTN 040 (P1043), a study focused on the prevention of intrapartum HIV transmission to 1684 infants born to 1664 untreated HIV-infected women. This analysis evaluates risk factors and outcomes associated with a syphilis diagnosis in this cohort of HIV-infected women and their infants.

RESULTS

Approximately, 10% of women (n=171) enrolled had serological evidence of syphilis without adequate treatment documented and 1.4% infants (n=24) were dually HIV and syphilis infected. Multivariate logistic analysis showed that compared with HIV-infected women, co-infected women were significantly more likely to self-identify as non-white (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 2.5, 95% CI: 1.5-4.2), to consume alcohol during pregnancy (AOR 1.5, 95% CI: 1.1-2.1) and to transmit HIV to their infants (AOR 2.1, 95% CI: 1.3-3.4), with 88% of HIV infections being acquired in utero. As compared with HIV-infected or HIV-exposed infants, co-infected infants were significantly more likely to be born to mothers with venereal disease research laboratory titers≥1:16 (AOR 3, 95% CI: 1.1-8.2) and higher viral loads (AOR 1.5, 95% CI: 1.1-1.9). Of 6 newborns with symptomatic syphilis, 2 expired shortly after birth, and 2 were HIV-infected.

CONCLUSION

Syphilis continues to be a common co-infection in HIV-infected women and can facilitate in utero transmission of HIV to infants. Most infants are asymptomatic at birth, but those with symptoms have high mortality rates.

Reduced indinavir exposure during pregnancy

AIM

To describe the pharmacokinetics and safety of indinavir boosted with ritonavir (IDV/r) during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy and in the post-partum period.

METHODS

IMPAACT P1026s is an on-going, prospective, non-blinded study of antiretroviral pharmacokinetics (PK) in HIV-infected pregnant women with a Thai cohort receiving IDV/r 400/100 mg twice daily during pregnancy through to 6-12 weeks post-partum as part of clinical care. Steady-state PK profiles were performed during the second (optional) and third trimesters and at 6-12 weeks post-partum. PK targets were the estimated 10(th) percentile IDV AUC (12.9 μg ml(-1)h) in non-pregnant historical Thai adults and a trough concentration of 0.1 μg ml(-1), the suggested minimum target.

RESULTS

Twenty-six pregnant women were enrolled; thirteen entered during the second trimester. Median (range) age was 29.8 (18.9-40.8) years and weight 60.5 (50.0-85.0) kg at the third trimester PK visit. The 90% confidence limits for the geometric mean ratio of the indinavir AUC(0,12 h) and Cmax during the second trimester and post-partum (ante : post ratios) were 0.58 (0.49, 0.68) and 0.73 (0.59, 0.91), respectively; third trimester/post-partum AUC(0,12 h) and Cmax ratios were 0.60 (0.53, 0.68) and 0.63 (0.55, 0.72), respectively. IDV/r was well tolerated and 21/26 women had a HIV-1 viral load < 40 copies ml(-1) at delivery. All 26 infants were confirmed HIV negative.

CONCLUSION

Indinavir exposure during the second and third trimesters was significantly reduced compared with post-partum and ∼30% of women failed to achieve a target trough concentration. Increasing the dose of IDV/r during pregnancy to 600/100 mg twice daily may be preferable to ensure adequate drug concentrations.

Predictors of adverse pregnancy outcomes in women infected with HIV in Latin America and the Caribbean: a cohort study

OBJECTIVE

To examine maternal characteristics associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes among women infected with HIV.

DESIGN

Prospective cohort study.

SETTING

Multiple sites in Latin America and the Caribbean.

POPULATION

Women infected with HIV enrolled in the Perinatal (2002-2007) and the Longitudinal Study in Latin American Countries (LILAC; 2008-2012) studies of the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) International Site Development Initiative (NISDI).

METHODS

Frequencies of adverse pregnancy outcomes assessed among pregnancies. Risk factors investigated by logistic regression analysis.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Adverse pregnancy outcomes, including preterm delivery (PT), low birthweight (LBW), small for gestational age (SGA), stillbirth (SB), and neonatal death.

RESULTS

Among 1512 women, 1.9% (95% confidence interval, 95% CI, 1.3-2.7) of singleton pregnancies resulted in a stillbirth and 32.9% (95% CI 30.6-35.4) had at least one adverse pregnancy outcome. Of 1483 singleton live births, 19.8% (95% CI 17.8-21.9) were PT, 14.2% (95% CI 12.5-16.1) were LBW, 12.6% (95% CI 10.9-14.4) were SGA, and 0.4% (95% CI 0.2-0.9) of infants died within 28 days of birth. Multivariable logistic regression modelling indicated that the following risk factors increased the probability of having one or more adverse pregnancy outcomes: lower maternal body mass index at delivery (odds ratio, OR, 2.2; 95% CI 1.4-3.5), hospitalisation during pregnancy (OR 3.3; 95% CI 2.0-5.3), hypertension during pregnancy (OR 2.7; 95% CI 1.5-4.8), antiretroviral use at conception (OR 1.4; 95% CI 1.0-1.9), and tobacco use during pregnancy (OR 1.7; 95% CI 1.3-2.2). The results of fitting multivariable logistic regression models for PT, LBW, SGA, and SB are also reported.

CONCLUSIONS

Women infected with HIV had a relatively high occurrence of adverse pregnancy outcomes, and some maternal risk factors were associated with these adverse pregnancy outcomes. Interventions targeting modifiable risk factors should be evaluated further.

Hypertension, preeclampsia and eclampsia among HIV-infected pregnant women from Latin America and Caribbean countries

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the incidence of and risk factors for hypertensive disorders in a cohort of HIV-infected pregnant women.

METHODS

Hypertensive disorders (HD) including preeclampsia/eclampsia (PE/E) and pregnancy induced hypertension, and risk factors were evaluated in a cohort of HIV-infected pregnant women from Latin America and the Caribbean enrolled between 2002 and 2009. Only pregnant women enrolled for the first time in the study and delivered at ≥20 weeks gestation were analyzed.

RESULTS

HD were diagnosed in 73 (4.8%, 95% CI: 3.8%-6.0%) of 1513 patients; 35 (47.9%) had PE/E. HD was significantly increased among women with a gestational age-adjusted body mass index (gBMI) ≥25 kg/m(2) (OR = 3.1; 95% CI: 1.9-5.0), hemoglobin (Hg) ≥11 g/dL at delivery (OR = 2.1; 95% CI: 1.2-3.6) and age ≥35 years (OR = 1.8; 95% CI: 1.1-3.2). PE/E was increased among women with a gBMI ≥25 kg/m(2) (OR = 3.0; 95% CI: 1.5-6.0) and Hg ≥11 g/dL at delivery (OR = 2.8; 95% CI: 1.2-6.5). A previous history of PE/E increased the risk of PE/E 6.7 fold (95% CI: 1.8-25.5). HAART before conception was associated with PE/E (OR = 2.3; 95% CI: 1.1-4.9).

CONCLUSIONS

HIV-infected women, with a previous history of PE/E, a gBMI ≥25 kg/m(2), Hg at delivery ≥11 g/dL and in use of HAART before conception are at an increased risk of developing PE/E during pregnancy.

O silêncio no cotidiano do adolescente com HIV/AIDS

Este estudo caracteriza-se por ser uma pesquisa qualitativa que objetivou desvelar a percepção e a vivência em relação ao tratamento antirretroviral do adolescente com síndrome da imunodeficiência adquirida. A pesquisa foi realizada em serviços de referência em dois municípios na região sul do Brasil. A produção dos dados foi desenvolvida com a dinâmica de criatividade e sensibilidade mapa falante, por cinco participantes. Foi aplicada a técnica de análise temática do conteúdo. Das produções artísticas e depoimentos emergiram o cotidiano do uso dos medicamentos e o silêncio do diagnóstico da doença e do tratamento que implicam o cuidado à saúde. Conclui-se que é necessário o envolvimento dos profissionais de saúde, possibilitando espaços para a família e promovendo diálogos desta com o adolescente, visando à adesão ao tratamento.

[Child with HIV/AIDS: perception of the antiretroviral treatment]

This article presents a cutting from the multicentric study carried out in the municipalities of Porto Alegre and Santa Maria/ RS with the objective of unveiling the perception and the life experience of the child regarding the antiretroviral treatment. With qualitative approach, the study was carried out with seven children of five to ten years of age, in the period from 2006 to 2010, after approval by Committee National for Ethics in research and the Committees of Ethics in research. Based on the thematic analysis was obtained the results: the day-to-day life of the child with medicines; the family care upon the adhesion to the antiretroviral treatment; the professional care:perception of children with infection. Observation showed that the children face adversities, know and appreciate the treatment in spite of the paradoxical movement of rejection/acceptance expressed by the fight against the syndrome.

Missed opportunities for prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV-1 in the NISDI Perinatal and LILAC cohorts

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate cases of mother-to-child transmission of HIV-1 at multiple sites in Latin America and the Caribbean in terms of missed opportunities for prevention.

METHODS

Pregnant women infected with HIV-1 were eligible for inclusion if they were enrolled in either the NISDI Perinatal or LILAC protocols by October 20, 2009, and had delivered a live infant with known HIV-1 infection status after March 1, 2006.

RESULTS

Of 711 eligible mothers, 10 delivered infants infected with HIV-1. The transmission rate was 1.4% (95% CI, 0.7-2.6). Timing of transmission was in utero or intrapartum (n=5), intrapartum (n=2), intrapartum or early postnatal (n=1), and unknown (n=2). Possible missed opportunities for prevention included poor control of maternal viral load during pregnancy; late initiation of antiretrovirals during pregnancy; lack of cesarean delivery before labor and before rupture of membranes; late diagnosis of HIV-1 infection; lack of intrapartum antiretrovirals; and incomplete avoidance of breastfeeding.

CONCLUSION

Early knowledge of HIV-1 infection status (ideally before or in early pregnancy) would aid timely initiation of antiretroviral treatment and strategies designed to prevent mother-to-child transmission. Use of antiretrovirals must be appropriately monitored in terms of adherence and drug resistance. If feasible, breastfeeding should be completely avoided. Presented in part at the XIX International AIDS Conference (Washington, DC; July 22-27, 2012); abstract WEPE163.

Antiretroviral adherence during pregnancy and postpartum in Latin America

Adherence to antiretrovirals by pregnant women (and postpartum women if breastfeeding) is crucial to effectively decrease maternal viral load and decrease the risk of mother-to-child transmission of HIV. Our objectives were to describe self-reported adherence to antiretrovirals during the antepartum (after 22 weeks of pregnancy) and postpartum periods (6-12 weeks and 6 months), and identify predictors of adherence among HIV-infected women enrolled and followed in a prospective cohort study from June 2008 to June 2010 at multiple sites in Latin America. Adherence was evaluated using the number of missed and expected doses during the 3 days before the study visit. At the pre-delivery visit, 340 of 376 women (90%) reported perfect adherence. This rate significantly decreased by 6-12 weeks (171/214 [80%]) and 6 months postpartum (163/199 [82%], p<0.01). The odds for less than perfect adherence at the pre-delivery visit was significantly higher for pregnant women with current tobacco use (odds ratio [OR]=2.9, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.46-6.14; p=0.0029). At 6-12 weeks postpartum, the probability of non-perfect adherence increased by 6% for each 1 year increase in age (OR=1.06, 95% CI: 1.00-1.12, p=0.0497). At 6 months postpartum, the odds of nonperfect adherence was higher for those who were currently using alcohol (OR=3.04, 95% CI: 1.34-6.90; p=0.0079). Although a self-report measure of adherence based on only 3 days may lead to overestimation of actual adherence over time, women with perfect adherence had lower viral loads and higher CD4 counts. Adherence to antiretrovirals decreased significantly postpartum. Interventions should target women at high risk for lower adherence during pregnancy and postpartum, including tobacco and alcohol users.

Three postpartum antiretroviral regimens to prevent intrapartum HIV infection

BACKGROUND

The safety and efficacy of adding antiretroviral drugs to standard zidovudine prophylaxis in infants of mothers with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection who did not receive antenatal antiretroviral therapy (ART) because of late identification are unclear. We evaluated three ART regimens in such infants.

METHODS

Within 48 hours after their birth, we randomly assigned formula-fed infants born to women with a peripartum diagnosis of HIV type 1 (HIV-1) infection to one of three regimens: zidovudine for 6 weeks (zidovudine-alone group), zidovudine for 6 weeks plus three doses of nevirapine during the first 8 days of life (two-drug group), or zidovudine for 6 weeks plus nelfinavir and lamivudine for 2 weeks (three-drug group). The primary outcome was HIV-1 infection at 3 months in infants uninfected at birth.

RESULTS

A total of 1684 infants were enrolled in the Americas and South Africa (566 in the zidovudine-alone group, 562 in the two-drug group, and 556 in the three-drug group). The overall rate of in utero transmission of HIV-1 on the basis of Kaplan-Meier estimates was 5.7% (93 infants), with no significant differences among the groups. Intrapartum transmission occurred in 24 infants in the zidovudine-alone group (4.8%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.2 to 7.1), as compared with 11 infants in the two-drug group (2.2%; 95% CI, 1.2 to 3.9; P=0.046) and 12 in the three-drug group (2.4%; 95% CI, 1.4 to 4.3; P=0.046). The overall transmission rate was 8.5% (140 infants), with an increased rate in the zidovudine-alone group (P=0.03 for the comparisons with the two- and three-drug groups). On multivariate analysis, zidovudine monotherapy, a higher maternal viral load, and maternal use of illegal substances were significantly associated with transmission. The rate of neutropenia was significantly increased in the three-drug group (P<0.001 for both comparisons with the other groups).

CONCLUSIONS

In neonates whose mothers did not receive ART during pregnancy, prophylaxis with a two- or three-drug ART regimen is superior to zidovudine alone for the prevention of intrapartum HIV transmission; the two-drug regimen has less toxicity than the three-drug regimen. (Funded by the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development [NICHD] and others; ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT00099359.).

Lopinavir/ritonavir dosing during pregnancy in Brazil and maternal/infant laboratory abnormalities

OBJECTIVES

To describe laboratory abnormalities among HIV-infected women and their infants with standard and increased lopinavir/ritonavir (LPV/r) dosing during the third trimester of pregnancy.

METHODS

We evaluated data on pregnant women from NISDI cohorts (2002-2009) enrolled in Brazil, who received at least 28 days of LPV/r during the third pregnancy trimester and gave birth to singleton infants.

RESULTS

164 women received LPV/r standard dosing [(798/198 or 800/200 mg/day) (Group 1)] and 70 increased dosing [(> 800/200 mg/day) (Group 2)]. Group 1 was more likely to have advanced clinical disease and to use ARVs for treatment, and less likely to have CD4 counts > 500 cells/mm³. Mean plasma viral load was higher in Group 2. There were statistically significant, but not clinically meaningful, differences between groups in mean AST, ALT, cholesterol, and triglycerides. The proportion of women with Grade 3 or 4 adverse events was very low, with no statistically significant differences between groups in severe adverse events related to ALT, AST, total bilirubin, cholesterol, or triglycerides. There were statistically significant, but not clinically meaningful, differences between infant groups in ALT and creatinine. The proportion of infants with Grade 3 or 4 adverse events was very low, and there were no statistically significant differences in severe adverse events related to ALT, AST, BUN, or creatinine.

CONCLUSION

The proportions of women and infants with severe laboratory adverse events were very low. Increased LPV/r dosing during the third trimester of pregnancy appears to be safe for HIV-infected women and their infants.

Mode of delivery and neonatal respiratory morbidity among HIV-exposed newborns in Latin America and the Caribbean: NISDI Perinatal-LILAC Studies

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate respiratory morbidity (RM) in HIV-exposed newborns according to mode of delivery.

METHODS

The NISDI Perinatal/LILAC prospective cohort studies enrolled HIV-infected pregnant women and their newborns in Latin America and the Caribbean. Associations between RM and delivery mode or other characteristics were evaluated.

RESULTS

Between September 2002 and December 2009, 1630 women were enrolled, and 1443 mother-infant pairs met the inclusion criteria. There were 561 vaginal (VD), 269 cesarean before labor and membrane rupture (SCS) for preventing mother-to-child transmission (SCS-PMTCT), 248 other SCS, and 365 cesarean after labor and/or ruptured membranes (NSCS) deliveries. In total, 108 (7.5%) newborns had RM: 49 had respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), 39 had transient tachypnea (TTN), and 28 had other events (7 newborns had >1 RM event). Delivery mode was associated with RDS (P<0.005) and TTN (P<0.001). The proportion with RDS and TTN was lowest for VD (1.6% and 0.5%, respectively), highest for NSCS (4.9% and 4.7%), and intermediate for SCS-PMTCT (3.0% and 2.6%). Newborns with RDS or TTN were hospitalized longer (median +1day) than those without. A minority required ventilatory support (RDS, 24.5%-28.6%; TTN, 2.6%-15.4%).

CONCLUSIONS

SCS-PMTCT is relatively safe for newborns of HIV-infected women.

HIV rapid testing as a key strategy for prevention of mother-to-child transmission in Brazil

OBJECTIVE

To assess the feasibility of HIV rapid testing for pregnant women at maternity hospital admission and of subsequent interventions to reduce perinatal HIV transmission.

METHODS

Study based on a convenience sample of women unaware of their HIV serostatus when they were admitted to delivery in public maternity hospitals in Rio de Janeiro and Porto Alegre, Brazil, between March 2000 and April 2002. Women were counseled and tested using the Determine HIV1/2 Rapid Test. HIV infection was confirmed using the Brazilian algorithm for HIV infection diagnosis. In utero transmission of HIV was determined using HIV-DNA-PCR. There were performed descriptive analyses of sociodemographic data, number of previous pregnancies and abortions, number of prenatal care visits, timing of HIV testing, HIV rapid test result, neonatal and mother-to-child transmission interventions, by city studied.

RESULTS

HIV prevalence in women was 6.5% (N=1,439) in Porto Alegre and 1.3% (N=3.778) in Rio de Janeiro. In Porto Alegre most of women were tested during labor (88.7%), while in Rio de Janeiro most were tested in the postpartum (67.5%). One hundred and forty-four infants were born to 143 HIV-infected women. All newborns but one in each city received at least prophylaxis with oral zidovudine. It was possible to completely avoid newborn exposure to breast milk in 96.8% and 51.1% of the cases in Porto Alegre and Rio de Janeiro, respectively. Injectable intravenous zidovudine was administered during labor to 68.8% and 27.7% newborns in Porto Alegre and Rio de Janeiro, respectively. Among those from whom blood samples were collected within 48 hours of birth, in utero transmission of HIV was confirmed in 4 cases in Rio de Janeiro (4/47) and 6 cases in Porto Alegre (6/79).

CONCLUSIONS

The strategy proved feasible in maternity hospitals in Rio de Janeiro and Porto Alegre. Efforts must be taken to maximize HIV testing during labor. There is a need of strong social support to provide this population access to health care services after hospital discharge.

Perinatal HIV-1 transmission among low income women participants in the HIV/AIDS Control Program in Southern Brazil: a cohort study

OBJECTIVE

To determine the rate and factors associated with perinatal transmission among women infected with HIV-1.

DESIGN

Cohort study.

SETTING

Centro Municipal de Atendimento em DST/AIDS is a major reference centre for HIV treatment in Porto Alegre city, southern Brazil.

POPULATION

Pregnant and puerperal women infected with HIV-1.

METHODS

Women were enrolled during pregnancy and seen monthly at the antenatal care centre. Those detected at delivery that presented at the centre within the first 10 days of postpartum were included. Maternal, obstetric and infant-related characteristics were ascertained and testing for CD4 cell count, HIV PCR/RNA assay, anti-HCV, HBSAg and syphilis were performed. Antiretrovirals and formula were provided free of charge following Brazilian guidelines.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

HIV-1 infection status in the infant.

RESULTS

Perinatal transmission was assessed in 343 children (95% of the whole sample). Overall, the transmission rate was 3.2% (95% CI: 1.7-5.8%). Perinatal transmission rates increased with maternal viral load (>/=10,000 copies/mL; RR: 11.27; 95% CI: 1.38-92.23). In multivariate analyses, the only independent risk factor for perinatal transmission was the maternal viral load at baseline (OR = 2.72 per log increase in the number of copies; 95% CI: 1.17-6.50).

CONCLUSION

Perinatal transmission rate was low among HIV-1 infected women in clinical care and on antiretroviral therapy despite poor socio-economic conditions. Viral load level was the only independent predictor of perinatal transmission. It is possible to prevent HIV-1 perinatal transmission in a developing country if we provide antiretrovirals and formula.