Disclosure of HIV status and associated clinical outcomes of children and adolescents living with HIV in Asia

Disclosure of HIV status is an important part of pediatric care. We studied disclosure and clinical outcomes in a multi-country Asian cohort of children and adolescents with HIV. Those 6-19 years of age who initiated combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) between 2008 and 2018, and who had at least one follow-up clinic visit were included. Data up to December 2019 were analyzed. Cox and competing risk regression analyses were used to assess the effect of disclosure on disease progression (WHO clinical stage 3 or 4), loss to follow-up (LTFU; > 12 months), and death. Of 1913 children and adolescents (48% female; median [IQR] age 11.5 [9.2-14.7] years at last clinic visit), 795 (42%) were disclosed to about their HIV status at a median age of 12.9 years (IQR: 11.8-14.1). During follow-up, 207 (11%) experienced disease progression, 75 (3.9%) were LTFU, and 59 (3.1%) died. There were lower hazards of disease progression (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 0.43 [0.28-0.66]) and death (aHR 0.36 [0.17-0.79]) for those disclosed to compared with those who were not. Disclosure and its appropriate implementation should be promoted in pediatric HIV clinics in resource-limited settings.

The changing characteristics of a cohort of children and adolescents living with HIV at antiretroviral therapy initiation in Asia

Despite improvements in HIV testing and earlier antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation in children living with HIV through the years, a considerable proportion start treatment with advanced disease. We studied characteristics of children and adolescents living with HIV and their level of immunodeficiency at ART initiation using data from a multi-country Asian cohort. We included children and adolescents who were ART-naïve and <18 years of age at ART initiation from 2011 to 2020 at 17 HIV clinics in six countries. Incidence rates of opportunistic infections (OIs) in the first two years of triple-drug ART (≥3 antiretrovirals) was also reported. Competing risk regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with first occurrence of OI. In 2,027 children and adolescents (54% males), median age at ART initiation increased from 4.5 years in 2011-2013 to 6.7 in 2017-2020, median CD4 count doubled from 237 cells/μl to 466 cells/μl, and proportion of children who initiated ART as severely immunodeficient decreased from 70% to 45%. During follow-up, 275 (14%) children who received triple-drug ART as first treatment and had at least one clinic visit, developed at least one OI in the first two years of treatment (9.40 per 100 person-years). The incidence rate of any first OI declined from 12.52 to 7.58 per 100 person-years during 2011-2013 and 2017-2020. Lower hazard of OIs were found in those with age at first ART 2-14 years, current CD4 ≥200 cells/μl, and receiving ART between 2017 and 2020. The analysis demonstrated increasing number of children and adolescents starting ART with high CD4 count at ART start. The rate of first OI markedly decreased in children who started ART in more recent years. There remains a clear need for improvement in HIV control strategies in children, by promoting earlier diagnosis and timely treatment.

Factors associated with reduced function and quality of life among adult people with HIV with depression and substance use in the Asia-Pacific region

BACKGROUND

Depression and substance use (SU) disorders are prevalent among people with HIV (PWH) and impact health outcomes despite successful antiretroviral therapy (ART). We explored quality of life, functional ability and associated factors among PWH screened positive for depression and/or SU.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study recruited adult PWH during routine follow-up at five HIV clinical sites in the Asia-Pacific region. Participants were screened for depression using Patient Health Questionnaire-9 and SU using Alcohol, Smoking, and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST). Quality of life (QoL) was assessed with WHOQOL-HIV BREF and functional ability with World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0 (WHODAS 2.0). Factors associated with mean QoL and disability scores were analysed using linear regression.

RESULTS

Of 864 PWH enrolled, 753 screened positive for depression or SU. The median (interquartile range, IQR) age was 38 (31-47) years and 97% were on ART. Overall mean WHOQOL-HIV BREF and WHODAS scores indicated greater impairment with increasing depressive symptom severity and SU risk. In multivariate analysis, PWH reporting previous trauma/stress (difference = 2.7, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.5-3.9, P  < 0.001) and past mental health diagnosis (difference = 5.0, 95% CI 2.9-7.1, P  < 0.001) were associated with greater disability and poorer QoL scores across multiple domains ( P < 0.01 for all). Higher CD4 T-cell counts was also associated with better QoL scores and functional ability.

CONCLUSION

PWH with depression/SU experienced poorer QoL and function despite routine engagement in HIV care. Efforts to integrate mental health services and interventions addressing disability into HIV management should be prioritized in the region.

CD4/CD8 Ratio Recovery Among People Living With HIV Starting With First-Line Integrase Strand Transfer Inhibitors: A Prospective Regional Cohort Analysis

BACKGROUND

We evaluated trends in CD4/CD8 ratio among people living with HIV (PLWH) starting antiretroviral therapy (ART) with first-line integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTI) compared with non-INSTI-based ART, and the incidence of CD4/CD8 ratio normalization.

METHODS

All PLWH enrolled in adult HIV cohorts of IeDEA Asia-Pacific who started with triple-ART with at least 1 CD4, CD8 (3-month window), and HIV-1 RNA measurement post-ART were included. CD4/CD8 ratio normalization was defined as a ratio ≥1. Longitudinal changes in CD4/CD8 ratio were analyzed by linear mixed model, the incidence of the normalization by Cox regression, and the differences in ratio recovery by group-based trajectory modeling.

RESULTS

A total of 5529 PLWH were included; 80% male, median age 35 years (interquartile range [IQR], 29-43). First-line regimens were comprised of 65% NNRTI, 19% PI, and 16% INSTI. The baseline CD4/CD8 ratio was 0.19 (IQR, 0.09-0.33). PLWH starting with NNRTI- (P = 0.005) or PI-based ART (P = 0.030) had lower CD4/CD8 recovery over 5 years compared with INSTI. During 24,304 person-years of follow-up, 32% had CD4/CD8 ratio normalization. After adjusting for age, sex, baseline CD4, HIV-1 RNA, HCV, and year of ART initiation, PLWH started with INSTI had higher odds of achieving CD4/CD8 ratio normalization than NNRTI- (P < 0.001) or PI-based ART (P = 0.015). In group-based trajectory modeling analysis, INSTI was associated with greater odds of being in the higher ratio trajectory.

CONCLUSIONS

INSTI use was associated with higher rates of CD4/CD8 ratio recovery and normalization in our cohort. These results emphasize the relative benefits of INSTI-based ART for immune restoration.

BMI as a predictor of high fasting blood glucose among people living with HIV in the Asia-Pacific region

BACKGROUND

Non-Asian body mass index (BMI) classifications are commonly used as a risk factor for high fasting blood glucose (FBG). We investigated the incidence and factors associated with high FBG among people living with HIV in the Asia-Pacific region, using a World Health Organization BMI classification specific to Asian populations.

METHODS

This study included people living with HIV enrolled in a longitudinal cohort study from 2003 to 2019, receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART), and without prior tuberculosis. BMI at ART initiation was categorized using Asian BMI classifications: underweight (<18.5 kg/m2 ), normal (18.5-22.9 kg/m2 ), overweight (23-24.9 kg/m2 ), and obese (≥25 kg/m2 ). High FBG was defined as a single post-ART FBG measurement ≥126 mg/dL. Factors associated with high FBG were analyzed using Cox regression models stratified by site.

RESULTS

A total of 3939 people living with HIV (63% male) were included. In total, 50% had a BMI in the normal weight range, 23% were underweight, 13% were overweight, and 14% were obese. Median age at ART initiation was 34 years (interquartile range 29-41). Overall, 8% had a high FBG, with an incidence rate of 1.14 per 100 person-years. Factors associated with an increased hazard of high FBG included being obese (≥25 kg/m2 ) compared with normal weight (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.79; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.31-2.44; p < 0.001) and older age compared with those aged ≤30 years (31-40 years: HR = 1.47; 95% CI 1.08-2.01; 41-50 years: HR = 2.03; 95% CI 1.42-2.90; ≥51 years: HR = 3.19; 95% CI 2.17-4.69; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

People living with HIV with BMI >25 kg/m2 were at increased risk of high FBG. This indicates that regular assessments should be performed in those with high BMI, irrespective of the classification used.

Factors associated with high alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and cirrhosis in people living with HIV on combination antiretroviral treatment (cART) in the Asia-Pacific

Liver disease is a growing burden among people living with HIV (PLHIV) in resource-limited settings. As an indicator of liver disease, risk factors of high alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and cirrhosis were assessed among PLHIV in the TREAT Asia HIV Observational Database (TAHOD). Patients on combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) with a pre-cART ALT measurement and at least one follow-up ALT measurement were included. Factors associated with high ALT (ALT levels > 5 times its upper limit of normal) were analyzed using repeated measure logistic regression over a 10-year follow-up period. Liver cirrhosis was defined as having an AST to Platelet Ratio Index score > 1.5, fibrosis-4 score > 3.25, or a clinical diagnosis of cirrhosis. Cox regression analysis stratified by site was used to analyze factors associated with cirrhosis among those in follow-up after 2015. Of 5182 patients, 101 patients (1.9%) had high ALT levels with hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibody positive (odds ratio [OR]: 4.98, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.82-8.77, p < 0.001) and ever high alcohol consumption (OR: 2.33, 95% CI: 1.00-5.46, p = 0.050) as likely factors. Among 6318 PLHIV in the liver cirrhosis analysis, 151 (2%) developed cirrhosis (incidence rate = 0.82 per 100 person-years). Those HCV-antibody positive (hazard ratio [HR]: 5.54, 95% CI: 3.75-8.18, p < 0.001) and had high alcohol consumption (HR: 2.06, 95% CI: 1.23-3.45, p = 0.006) were associated with liver cirrhosis. HCV-antibody positive and high alcohol consumption are factors associated with high ALT. With raised ALT levels as a known factor associated with liver cirrhosis, greater efforts are required in managing ALT levels and reducing the risk of developing liver cirrhosis among those positive for HCV-antibody and those who consume alcohol.

HIV incidence among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Metro Manila, the Philippines: A prospective cohort study 2014-2018

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemic in the Philippines has been driven by sexual transmission among men who have sex with men (MSM) over the past 2 decades. As the incidence of HIV infection among MSM has not been extensively evaluated, this study aimed to determine the incidence of HIV infections and the associated risk factors among MSM in Metro Manila, Philippines. This prospective cohort study was conducted in 2 community centers in Metro Manila, the Philippines, between March 2014 and December 2018. MSM who had anal or oral sex in the past 12 months, aged ≥18 years, and confirmed HIV-negative status were enrolled. Participants were followed up every 3 months with repeat HIV testing and assessment of HIV-related practices. Of the 708 MSM included in this study, a total of 59 HIV seroconversions occurred during the follow-up, resulting in an incidence of 2.7 (95% confidence interval: 2.1-3.5) per 100 patient-years. Multivariate risk regression analysis indicated that age (P = .002) and anal sex with a consensual male partner in the past 3 months (P = .039) were significantly associated with HIV infection. Our study has shown high rates of incident HIV infection among Filipino MSM. This demonstrates the need for effective HIV prevention, surveillance, treatment, and intervention strategies targeting this population.

Virological failure and treatment switch after ART initiation among people living with HIV with and without routine viral load monitoring in Asia

Introduction

Viral load (VL) testing is still challenging to monitor treatment responses of antiretroviral therapy (ART) for HIV treatment programme in Asia. We assessed the association between routine VL testing and virological failure (VF) and determine factors associated with switching to second‐line regimen.

Methods

Among 21 sites from the TREAT Asia HIV Observational Database (TAHOD), people living with HIV (PLHIV) aged ≥18 years initiating ART from 2003 to 2021 were included. We calculated the average number of VL tests per patient per year between the date of ART initiation and the most recent visit. If the median average number of VL tests was ≥ 0.80 per patient per year, the site was classified as a routine VL site. A site with a median < 0.80 was classified into the non‐routine VL sites. VF was defined as VL ≥1000 copies/ml during first‐line therapy. Factors associated with VF were analysed using generalized estimating equations with Poisson distribution.

Results

Of 6277 PLHIV starting ART after 2003, 3030 (48%) were from 11 routine VL testing sites and 3247 (52%) were from 10 non‐routine VL testing sites. The median follow‐up was 9 years (IQR 5–13). The median age was 35 (30–42) years; 68% were male and 5729 (91%) started non‐nucleoside reverse‐transcriptase inhibitor‐based regimen. The median pre‐ART CD4 count in PLHIV from routine VL sites was lower compared to non‐routine VL sites (144 vs. 156 cells/mm³, p <0.001). Overall, 1021 subsequent VF at a rate of 2.15 (95% CI 2.02–2.29) per 100 person‐years (PY). VF was more frequent at non‐routine VL sites (adjusted incidence rate ratio 2.85 [95% CI 2.27–3.59]) compared to routine VL sites. Other factors associated with an increased rate of VF were age <50 years and CD4 count <350 cells/mm³. A total of 817 (13%) patients switched to second‐line regimen at a rate of 1.44 (95% CI 1.35–1.54) per 100 PY. PLHIV at routine VL monitoring sites were at higher risk of switching than those at non‐routine VL sites (adjusted sub‐hazard ratio 1.78 95% CI [1.17–2.71]).

Conclusions

PLHIV from non‐routine VL sites had a higher incidence of persistent VF and a low switching regimen rate, reflecting possible under‐utilized VL testing.

Patterns and prognosis of holding regimens for people living with HIV in Asian countries

The use of holding regimens for people living with HIV (PLWH) without effective antiretroviral options can have effects on outcomes and future treatment options. We aimed to investigate the use of holding regimens for PLWH in Asian countries. Data from adults enrolled in routine HIV care in IeDEA Asia-Pacific cohorts were included. Individuals were considered to be on holding regimen if they had been on combination antiretroviral therapy for at least 6 months, had two confirmed viral loads (VL) ≥1000 copies/mL, and had remained on the same medications for at least 6 months. Survival time was analyzed using Fine and Gray's competing risk regression. Factors associated with CD4 changes and VL <1000 copies/mL were analyzed using linear regression and logistic regression, respectively. A total of 425 PLWH (72.9% male; 45.2% high-income and 54.8% low-to-middle-income country) met criteria for being on a holding regimen. From high-income countries, 63.0% were on protease inhibitors (PIs); from low-to-middle-income countries, 58.4% were on non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs); overall, 4.5% were on integrase inhibitors. The combination of lamivudine, zidovudine, and efavirenz was the most commonly used single regimen (n = 46, 10.8%), followed by lamivudine, zidovudine, and nevirapine (n = 37, 8.7%). Forty-one PLWH (9.7%) died during follow-up (mortality rate 2.0 per 100 person-years). Age >50 years compared to age 31-40 years (sub-hazard ratio [SHR] 3.29, 95% CI 1.45-7.43, p = 0.004), and VL ≥1000 copies/ml compared to VL <1000 copies/mL (SHR, 2.14, 95% CI 1.08-4.25, p = 0.029) were associated with increased mortality, while higher CD4 counts were protective. In our Asia regional cohort, there was a diversity of holding regimens, and the patterns of PI vs. NNRTI use differed by country income levels. Considering the high mortality rate of PLWH with holding regimen, efforts to extend accessibility to additional antiretroviral options are needed in our region.

Weight changes, metabolic syndrome and all-cause mortality among Asian adults living with HIV

OBJECTIVES

We investigated weight changes following antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation, the development of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its association with all-cause mortality among Asian adults living with HIV.

METHODS

Participants enrolled in a regional Asian HIV-infected cohort with weight and height measurements at ART initiation were eligible for inclusion in the analysis. Factors associated with weight changes and incident MetS (according to the International Diabetic Federation (IDF) definition) were analysed using linear mixed models and Cox regression, respectively. Competing-risk regression models were used to investigate the association of MetS with all-cause mortality.

RESULTS

Among 4931 people living with HIV (PLWH), 66% were male. At ART initiation, the median age was 34 [interquartile range (IQR) 29-41] years, and the median (IQR) weight and body mass index (BMI) were 55 (48-63) kg and 20.5 (18.4-22.9) kg/m² , respectively. At 1, 2 and 3 years of ART, overall mean (± standard deviation) weight gain was 2.2 (±5.3), 3.0 (±6.2) and 3.7 (±6.5) kg, respectively. Participants with baseline CD4 count ≤ 200 cells/µL [weight difference (diff) = 2.2 kg; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.9-2.5 kg] and baseline HIV RNA ≥ 100 000 HIV-1 RNA copies/mL (diff = 0.6 kg; 95% CI 0.2-1.0 kg), and those starting with integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI)-based ART (diff = 2.1 kg; 95% CI 0.7-3.5 kg vs. nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors) had greater weight gain. After exclusion of those with abnormal baseline levels of MetS components, 295/3503 had incident MetS [1.18 (95% CI 1.05-1.32)/100 person-years (PY)]. The mortality rate was 0.7 (95% CI 0.6-0.8)/100 PY. MetS was not significantly associated with all-cause mortality in the adjusted model (P = 0.236).

CONCLUSIONS

Weight gain after ART initiation was significantly higher among those initiating ART with lower CD4 count, higher HIV RNA and an INSTI-based regimen after controlling for baseline BMI. Greater efforts to identify and manage MetS among PLWH are needed.

HIV treatment outcomes among people who acquired HIV via injecting drug use in the Asia-Pacific region: a longitudinal cohort study

INTRODUCTION

Data on HIV treatment outcomes in people who inject drugs (PWID) in the Asia‐Pacific are sparse despite the high burden of drug use. We assessed immunological and virological responses, AIDS‐defining events and mortality among PWID receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART).

METHODS

We investigated HIV treatment outcomes among people who acquired HIV via injecting drug use in the TREAT Asia HIV Observational Database (TAHOD) between January 2003 and March 2019. Trends in CD4 count and viral suppression (VS, HIV viral load <1000 copies/mL) were assessed. Factors associated with mean CD4 changes were analysed using repeated measures linear regression, and combined AIDS event and mortality were analysed using survival analysis.

RESULTS

Of 622 PWID from 12 countries in the Asia‐Pacific, 93% were male and the median age at ART initiation was 31 years (IQR, 28 to 34). The median pre‐ART CD4 count was 71 cells/µL. CD4 counts increased over time, with a mean difference of 401 (95% CI, 372 to 457) cells/µL at year‐10 (n = 78). Higher follow‐up HIV viral load and pre‐ART CD4 counts were associated with smaller increases in CD4 counts. Among 361 PWID with ≥1 viral load after six months on ART, proportions with VS were 82%, 88% and 93% at 2‐, 5‐ and 10‐years following ART initiation. There were 52 new AIDS‐defining events and 50 deaths during 3347 person‐years of follow‐up (PYS) (incidence 3.05/100 PYS, 95% CI, 2.51 to 3.70). Previous AIDS or TB diagnosis, lower current CD4 count and adherence <95% were associated with combined new AIDS‐defining event and death.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite improved outcomes over time, our findings highlight the need for rapid ART initiation and adherence support among PWID within Asian settings.

Treatment modification after second-line failure among people living with HIV in the Asia-Pacific

BACKGROUND

The World Health Organization recommends continuation with the failing second-line regimen if third-line option is not available. We investigated treatment outcomes among people living with HIV in Asia who continued with failing second-line regimens compared with those who had treatment modifications after failure.

METHODS

Treatment modification was defined as a change of two antiretrovirals, a drug class change or treatment interruption (TI), all for >14 days. We assessed factors associated with CD4 changes and undetectable viral load (UVL <1,000 copies/ml) at 1 year after second-line failure using linear and logistic regression, respectively. Survival time was analysed using competing risk regression.

RESULTS

Of the 328 patients who failed second-line ART in our cohorts, 208 (63%) had a subsequent treatment modification. Compared with those who continued the failing regimen, the average CD4 cell increase was higher in patients who had a modification without TI (difference =77.5, 95% CI 35.3, 119.7) while no difference was observed among those with TI (difference =-5.3, 95% CI -67.3, 56.8). Compared with those who continued the failing regimen, the odds of achieving UVL was lower in patients with TI (OR=0.18, 95% CI 0.06, 0.60) and similar among those who had a modification without TI (OR=1.97, 95% CI 0.95, 4.10), with proportions of UVL 60%, 22% and 75%, respectively. Survival time was not affected by treatment modifications.

CONCLUSIONS

CD4 cell improvements were observed in those who had treatment modification without TI compared with those on the failing regimen. When no other options are available, maintaining the same failing ART combination provided better VL control than interrupting treatment.

Validation of the D: A: D Chronic Kidney Disease Risk Score Model Among People Living With HIV in the Asia-Pacific

BACKGROUND

We validated the Data collection on Adverse events of anti-HIV Drugs (D:A:D) full-risk and short-risk score models for chronic kidney disease (CKD) in the Asian HIV cohorts.

SETTINGS

A validation study among people living with HIV (PLHIV) aged ≥18 years among the cohorts in the Asia-Pacific region.

METHODS

PLHIV with a baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate > 60 mL/min/1.73 m were included for validation of the D:A:D CKD full version and short version without cardiovascular risk factors. Those with <3 estimated glomerular filtration rate measurements from baseline or previous exposure to potentially nephrotoxic antiretrovirals were excluded. Kaplan-Meier methods were used to estimate the probability of CKD development. The area under the receiver operating characteristics was also used to validate the risk score.

RESULTS

We included 5701 participants in full model {median 8.1 [interquartile range (IQR) 4.8-10.9] years follow-up} and 9791 in short model validation [median 4.9 (IQR 2.5-7.3) years follow-up]. The crude incidence rate of CKD was 8.1 [95% confidence interval (CI): 7.3 to 8.9] per 1000 person-years in the full model cohort and 10.5 (95% CI: 9.6 to 11.4) per 1000 person-years in the short model cohort. The progression rates for CKD at 10 years in the full model cohort were 2.7%, 8.9%, and 26.1% for low-risk, medium-risk, and high-risk groups, and 3.5%, 11.7%, and 32.4% in the short model cohort. The area under the receiver operating characteristics for the full-risk and short-risk score was 0.81 (95% CI: 0.79 to 0.83) and 0.83 (95% CI: 0.81 to 0.85), respectively.

CONCLUSION

The D:A:D CKD full-risk and short-risk score performed well in predicting CKD events among Asian PLHIV. These risk prediction models may be useful to assist clinicians in identifying individuals at high risk of developing CKD.

Association of body mass index with immune recovery, virological failure and cardiovascular disease risk among people living with HIV

OBJECTIVES

We conducted a longitudinal cohort analysis to evaluate the association of pre-treatment body mass index (BMI) with CD4 recovery, virological failure (VF) and cardiovascular risk disease (CVD) markers among people living with HIV (PLHIV).

METHODS

Participants who were enrolled between January 2003 and March 2019 in a regional Asia HIV cohort with weight and height measurements prior to antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation were included. Factors associated with mean CD4 increase were analysed using repeated-measures linear regression. Time to first VF after 6 months on ART and time to first development of CVD risk markers were analysed using Cox regression models. Sensitivity analyses were done adjusting for Asian BMI thresholds.

RESULTS

Of 4993 PLHIV (66% male), 62% had pre-treatment BMI in the normal range (18.5-25.0 kg/m² ), while 26%, 10% and 2% were underweight (< 18.5 kg/m² ), overweight (25-30 kg/m2) and obese (> 30 kg/m² ), respectively. Both higher baseline and time-updated BMI were associated with larger CD4 gains compared with normal BMI. After adjusting for Asian BMI thresholds, higher baseline BMIs of 23-27.5 and > 27.5 kg/m² were associated with larger CD4 increases of 15.6 cells/µL [95% confidence interval (CI): 2.9-28.3] and 28.8 cells/µL (95% CI: 6.6-50.9), respectively, compared with normal BMI (18.5-23 kg/m² ). PLHIV with BMIs of 25-30 and > 30 kg/m² were 1.27 times (95% CI: 1.10-1.47) and 1.61 times (95% CI: 1.13-2.24) more likely to develop CVD risk factors. No relationship between pre-treatment BMI and VF was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

High pre-treatment BMI was associated with better immune reconstitution and CVD risk factor development in an Asian PLHIV cohort.

Virological failure and HIV drug resistance among adults living with HIV on second-line antiretroviral therapy in the Asia-Pacific

OBJECTIVES

To assess second-line antiretroviral therapy (ART) virological failure and HIV drug resistance-associated mutations (RAMs), in support of third-line regimen planning in Asia.

METHODS

Adults > 18 years of age on second-line ART for ≥ 6 months were eligible. Cross-sectional data on HIV viral load (VL) and genotypic resistance testing were collected or testing was conducted between July 2015 and May 2017 at 12 Asia-Pacific sites. Virological failure (VF) was defined as VL > 1000 copies/mL with a second VL > 1000 copies/mL within 3-6 months. FASTA files were submitted to Stanford University HIV Drug Resistance Database and RAMs were compared against the IAS-USA 2019 mutations list. VF risk factors were analysed using logistic regression.

RESULTS

Of 1378 patients, 74% were male and 70% acquired HIV through heterosexual exposure. At second-line switch, median [interquartile range (IQR)] age was 37 (32-42) years and median (IQR) CD4 count was 103 (43.5-229.5) cells/µL; 93% received regimens with boosted protease inhibitors (PIs). Median duration on second line was 3 years. Among 101 patients (7%) with VF, CD4 count > 200 cells/µL at switch [odds ratio (OR) = 0.36, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.17-0.77 vs. CD4 ≤ 50) and HIV exposure through male-male sex (OR = 0.32, 95% CI: 0.17-0.64 vs. heterosexual) or injecting drug use (OR = 0.24, 95% CI: 0.12-0.49) were associated with reduced VF. Of 41 (41%) patients with resistance data, 80% had at least one RAM to nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs), 63% to NRTIs, and 35% to PIs. Of those with PI RAMs, 71% had two or more.

CONCLUSIONS

There were low proportions with VF and significant RAMs in our cohort, reflecting the durability of current second-line regimens.

Cardiovascular disease incidence projections in the TREAT Asia HIV Observational Database (TAHOD)

BACKGROUND

We aimed to project the 10-year future incidence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and model several intervention scenarios based on a multi-site Asian HIV-positive cohort.

METHODS

Analyses were based on patients recruited to the TREAT Asia HIV Observational Database (TAHOD), consisting of 21 sites in 12 countries. Patients on triple antiretroviral therapy (ART) were included if they were alive, without previous CVD, and had data on CVD risk factors. Annual new CVD events for 2019-2028 were estimated with the D:A:D equation, accounting for age- and sex-adjusted mortality. Modelled intervention scenarios were treatment of high total cholesterol, low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) or high blood pressure, abacavir or lopinavir substitution, and smoking cessation.

RESULTS

Of 3,703 included patients, 69% were male, median age was 46 (IQR 40-53) years and median time since ART initiation was 9.8 years (IQR 7.5-14.1). Cohort incidence rates of CVD were projected to increase from 730 per 100,000 person-years (pys) in 2019 to 1,432 per 100,000 pys in 2028. In the modelled intervention scenarios, most events can be avoided by smoking cessation, abacavir substitution, lopinavir substitution, decreasing total cholesterol, treating high blood pressure and increasing HDL.

CONCLUSIONS

Our projections suggest a doubling of CVD incidence rates in Asian HIV-positive adults in our cohort. An increase in CVD can be expected in any ageing population, however, according to our models, this can be close to averted by interventions. Thus, there is an urgent need for risk screening and integration of HIV and CVD programmes to reduce the future CVD burden.

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease screening and management protocols among adult HIV clinics in Asia

OBJECTIVES

Integration of HIV and non-communicable disease services improves the quality and efficiency of care in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). We aimed to describe current practices for the screening and management of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) among adult HIV clinics in Asia.

METHODS

Sixteen LMIC sites included in the International Epidemiology Databases to Evaluate AIDS - Asia-Pacific network were surveyed.

RESULTS

Sites were mostly (81%) based in urban public referral hospitals. Half had protocols to assess tobacco and alcohol use. Protocols for assessing physical inactivity and obesity were in place at 31% and 38% of sites, respectively. Most sites provided educational material on ASCVD risk factors (between 56% and 75% depending on risk factors). A total of 94% reported performing routine screening for hypertension, 100% for hyperlipidaemia and 88% for diabetes. Routine ASCVD risk assessment was reported by 94% of sites. Protocols for the management of hypertension, hyperlipidaemia, diabetes, high ASCVD risk and chronic ischaemic stroke were in place at 50%, 69%, 56%, 19% and 38% of sites, respectively. Blood pressure monitoring was free for patients at 69% of sites; however, most required patients to pay some or all the costs for other ASCVD-related procedures. Medications available in the clinic or within the same facility included angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (81%), statins (94%) and sulphonylureas (94%).

CONCLUSION

The consistent availability of clinical screening, diagnostic testing and procedures and the availability of ASCVD medications in the Asian LMIC clinics surveyed are strengths that should be leveraged to improve the implementation of cardiovascular care protocols.

The influence of age-associated comorbidities on responses to combination antiretroviral therapy in older people living with HIV

INTRODUCTION

Multiple comorbidities among HIV-positive individuals may increase the potential for polypharmacy causing drug-to-drug interactions and older individuals with comorbidities, particularly those with cognitive impairment, may have difficulty in adhering to complex medications. However, the effects of age-associated comorbidities on the treatment outcomes of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) are not well known. In this study, we investigated the effects of age-associated comorbidities on therapeutic outcomes of cART in HIV-positive adults in Asian countries.

METHODS

Patients enrolled in the TREAT Asia HIV Observational Database cohort and on cART for more than six months were analysed. Comorbidities included hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidaemia and impaired renal function. Treatment outcomes of patients ≥50 years of age with comorbidities were compared with those <50 years and those ≥50 years without comorbidities. We analysed 5411 patients with virological failure and 5621 with immunologic failure. Our failure outcomes were defined to be in-line with the World Health Organization 2016 guidelines. Cox regression analysis was used to analyse time to first virological and immunological failure.

RESULTS

The incidence of virologic failure was 7.72/100 person-years. Virological failure was less likely in patients with better adherence and higher CD4 count at cART initiation. Those acquiring HIV through intravenous drug use were more likely to have virological failure compared to those infected through heterosexual contact. On univariate analysis, patients aged <50 years without comorbidities were more likely to experience virological failure than those aged ≥50 years with comorbidities (hazard ratio 1.75, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.31 to 2.33, p < 0.001). However, the multivariate model showed that age-related comorbidities were not significant factors for virological failure (hazard ratio 1.31, 95% CI 0.98 to 1.74, p = 0.07). There were 391 immunological failures, with an incidence of 2.75/100 person-years. On multivariate analysis, those aged <50 years without comorbidities (p = 0.025) and age <50 years with comorbidities (p = 0.001) were less likely to develop immunological failure compared to those aged ≥50 years with comorbidities.

CONCLUSIONS

In our Asia regional cohort, age-associated comorbidities did not affect virologic outcomes of cART. Among those with comorbidities, patients <50 years old showed a better CD4 response.

Early mortality after late initiation of antiretroviral therapy in the TREAT Asia HIV Observational Database (TAHOD) of the International Epidemiologic Databases to Evaluate AIDS (IeDEA) Asia-Pacific

OBJECTIVES

Early mortality among those still initiating antiretroviral therapy (ART) with advanced stages of HIV infection in resource-limited settings remains high despite recommendations for universal HIV treatment. We investigated risk factors associated with early mortality in people living with HIV (PLHIV) starting ART at low CD4 levels in the Asia-Pacific.

METHODS

PLHIV enrolled in the Therapeutics, Research, Education and AIDS Training in Asia (TREAT Asia) HIV Observational Database (TAHOD) who initiated ART with a CD4 count < 100 cells/μL between 2003 and 2018 were included in the study. Early mortality was defined as death within 1 year of ART initiation. PLHIV in follow-up for > 1 year were censored at 12 months. Competing risk regression was used to analyse risk factors with loss to follow-up as a competing risk.

RESULTS

A total of 1813 PLHIV were included in the study, of whom 74% were male. With 73 (4%) deaths, the overall first-year mortality rate was 4.27 per 100 person-years (PY). Thirty-eight deaths (52%) were AIDS-related, 10 (14%) were immune reconstituted inflammatory syndrome (IRIS)-related, 13 (18%) were non-AIDS-related and 12 (16%) had an unknown cause. Risk factors included having a body mass index (BMI) < 18.5 [sub-hazard ratio (SHR) 2.91; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.60-5.32] compared to BMI 18.5-24.9, and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) ≥ 5 times its upper limit of normal (ULN) (SHR 6.14; 95% CI 1.62-23.20) compared to ALT < 5 times its ULN. A higher CD4 count (51-100 cells/μL: SHR 0.28; 95% CI 0.14-0.55; and > 100 cells/μL: SHR 0.12; 95% CI 0.05-0.26) was associated with reduced hazard for mortality compared to CD4 count ≤ 25 cells/μL.

CONCLUSIONS

Fifty-two per cent of early deaths were AIDS-related. Efforts to initiate ART at CD4 counts > 50 cell/μL are associated with improved short-term survival rates, even in those with late stages of HIV disease.

Long-term loss to follow-up in the TREAT Asia HIV Observational Database (TAHOD)

OBJECTIVES

With earlier antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation, time spent in HIV care is expected to increase. We aimed to investigate loss to follow-up (LTFU) in Asian patients who remained in care 5 years after ART initiation.

METHODS

Long-term LTFU was defined as LTFU occurring after 5 years on ART. LTFU was defined as (1) patients not seen in the previous 12 months; and (2) patients not seen in the previous 6 months. Factors associated with LTFU were analysed using competing risk regression.

RESULTS

Under the 12-month definition, the LTFU rate was 2.0 per 100 person-years (PY) [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.8-2.2 among 4889 patients included in the study. LTFU was associated with age > 50 years [sub-hazard ratio (SHR) 1.64; 95% CI 1.17-2.31] compared with 31-40 years, viral load ≥ 1000 copies/mL (SHR 1.86; 95% CI 1.16-2.97) compared with viral load < 1000 copies/mL, and hepatitis C coinfection (SHR 1.48; 95% CI 1.06-2.05). LTFU was less likely to occur in females, in individuals with higher CD4 counts, in those with self-reported adherence ≥ 95%, and in those living in high-income countries. The 6-month LTFU definition produced an incidence rate of 3.2 per 100 PY (95% CI 2.9-3.4 and had similar associations but with greater risks of LTFU for ART initiation in later years (2006-2009: SHR 2.38; 95% CI 1.93-2.94; and 2010-2011: SHR 4.26; 95% CI 3.17-5.73) compared with 2003-2005.

CONCLUSIONS

The long-term LTFU rate in our cohort was low, with older age being associated with LTFU. The increased risk of LTFU with later years of ART initiation in the 6-month analysis, but not the 12-month analysis, implies that there was a possible move towards longer HIV clinic scheduling in Asia.

Socio-economic status and risk of tuberculosis: a case-control study of HIV-infected patients in Asia

SETTING

Tuberculosis (TB) is the most common human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) related opportunistic infection and cause of acquired immune-deficiency syndrome related death. TB often affects those from a low socio-economic background.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the socio-economic determinants of TB in HIV-infected patients in Asia.

DESIGN

This was a matched case-control study. HIV-positive, TB-positive cases were matched to HIV-positive, TB-negative controls according to age, sex and CD4 cell count. A socio-economic questionnaire comprising 23 questions, including education level, employment, housing and substance use, was distributed. Socio-economic risk factors for TB were analysed using conditional logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 340 patients (170 matched pairs) were recruited, with 262 (77.1%) matched for all three criteria. Pulmonary TB was the predominant type (n = 115, 67.6%). The main risk factor for TB was not having a university level education (OR 4.45, 95%CI 1.50-13.17, P = 0.007). Burning wood or coal regularly inside the house and living in the same place of origin were weakly associated with TB diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that lower socio-economic status is associated with an increased risk of TB in Asia. Integrating clinical and socio-economic factors into HIV treatment may help in the prevention of opportunistic infections and disease progression.

Diabetes mellitus burden among people living with HIV from the Asia-Pacific region

INTRODUCTION

Comorbidities including diabetes mellitus (DM) among people living with HIV (PLHIV) are of increasing clinical concerns in combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) era. We aimed to determine the incidence and risk factors of new-onset DM among PLHIV in Asian settings.

METHODS

PLHIV from a regional observational cohort without DM prior to antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation were included in the analysis. DM was defined as having a fasting blood glucose ≥126 mg/dL, glycated haemoglobin ≥6.5%, a two-hour plasma glucose ≥200 mg/dL, or a random plasma glucose ≥200 mg/dL. A Cox regression model, stratified by site, was used to identify risk factors associated with DM.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Of the 1927 participants included, 127 were diagnosed with DM after ART initiation. Median follow-up time from ART initiation to DM diagnosis was 5.9 years (interquartile range (IQR): 2.8 to 8.9 years). The crude incidence rate of DM was 1.08 per 100 person-years (100 PYS), 95% confidence interval (CI) (0.9 to 1.3). In the multivariate analysis, later years of follow-up (2011 to 2013: HR = 2.34, 95% CI 1.14 to 4.79, p = 0.02; and 2014 to 2017: HR = 7.20, 95% CI 3.27 to 15.87, p < 0.001) compared to <2010, older age (41 to 50 years: HR = 2.46, 95% CI 1.39 to 4.36, p  = 0.002; and >50 years: HR = 4.19, 95% CI 2.12 to 8.28, p < 0.001) compared to <30 years, body mass index (BMI) >30 kg/m2 (HR = 4.3, 95% CI 1.53 to 12.09, p = 0.006) compared to BMI <18.5 kg/m2 , and high blood pressure (HR = 2.05, 95% CI 1.16 to 3.63, p = 0.013) compared to those without high blood pressure, were associated with developing DM. The hazard was reduced for females (HR = 0.47, 95% CI 0.28 to 0.80, p = 0.006).

CONCLUSIONS

Type 2 DM in HIV-infected Asians was associated with later years of follow-up, high blood pressure, obesity and older age. This highlights the importance of monitoring and routine screening for non-communicable diseases including DM as PLHIV age.

Changes in renal function with long-term exposure to antiretroviral therapy in HIV-infected adults in Asia

PURPOSE

Renal disease is common among people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). However, there is limited information on the incidence and risk factors associated with renal dysfunction among this population in Asia.

METHODS

We used data from the TREAT Asia HIV Observational Database. Patients were included if they started antiretroviral therapy during or after 2003, had a serum creatinine measurement at antiretroviral therapy initiation (baseline), and had at least 2 follow-up creatinine measurements taken ≥3 months apart. Patients with a baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≤60 mL/min/1.73 m2 were excluded. Chronic kidney disease was defined as 2 consecutive eGFR values ≤60 mL/min/1.73 m2 taken ≥3 months apart. Generalized estimating equations were used to identify factors associated with eGFR change. Competing risk regression adjusted for study site, age and sex, and cumulative incidence plots were used to evaluate factors associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD).

RESULTS

Of 2547 patients eligible for this analysis, tenofovir was being used by 703 (27.6%) at baseline. Tenofovir use, high baseline eGFR, advanced HIV disease stage, and low nadir CD4 were associated with a decrease in eGFR during follow-up. Chronic kidney disease occurred at a rate of 3.4 per 1000 patient/years. Factors associated with CKD were tenofovir use, old age, low baseline eGFR, low nadir CD4, and protease inhibitor use.

CONCLUSIONS

There is an urgent need to enhance renal monitoring and management capacity among at-risk groups in Asia and improve access to less nephrotoxic antiretrovirals.

Early suboptimal ART adherence was associated with missed clinical visits in HIV-infected patients in Asia

Missed clinic visits can lead to poorer treatment outcomes in HIV-infected patients. Suboptimal antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence has been linked to subsequent missed visits. Knowing the determinants of missed visits in Asian patients will allow for appropriate counselling and intervention strategies to ensure continuous engagement in care. A missed visit was defined as having no assessments within six months. Repeated measures logistic regression was used to analyse factors associated with missed visits. A total of 7100 patients were included from 12 countries in Asia with 2676 (37.7%) having at least one missed visit. Patients with early suboptimal self-reported adherence <95% were more likely to have a missed visit compared to those with adherence ≥95% (OR = 2.55, 95% CI(1.81-3.61)). Other factors associated with having a missed visit were homosexual (OR = 1.45, 95%CI(1.27-1.66)) and other modes of HIV exposure (OR = 1.48, 95%CI(1.27-1.74)) compared to heterosexual exposure; using PI-based (OR = 1.33, 95%CI(1.15-1.53) and other ART combinations (OR = 1.79, 95%CI(1.39-2.32)) compared to NRTI+NNRTI combinations; and being hepatitis C co-infected (OR = 1.27, 95%CI(1.06-1.52)). Patients aged >30 years (31-40 years OR = 0.81, 95%CI(0.73-0.89); 41-50 years OR = 0.73, 95%CI(0.64-0.83); and >50 years OR = 0.77, 95%CI(0.64-0.93)); female sex (OR = 0.81, 95%CI(0.72-0.90)); and being from upper middle (OR = 0.78, 95%CI(0.70-0.80)) or high-income countries (OR = 0.42, 95%CI(0.35-0.51)), were less likely to have missed visits. Almost 40% of our patients had a missed clinic visit. Early ART adherence was an indicator of subsequent clinic visits. Intensive counselling and adherence support should be provided at ART initiation in order to optimise long-term clinic attendance and maximise treatment outcomes.

Comparison of Kaposi Sarcoma Risk in Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Positive Adults Across 5 Continents: A Multiregional Multicohort Study

BACKGROUND

We compared Kaposi sarcoma (KS) risk in adults who started antiretroviral therapy (ART) across the Asia-Pacific, South Africa, Europe, Latin, and North America.

METHODS

We included cohort data of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive adults who started ART after 1995 within the framework of 2 large collaborations of observational HIV cohorts. We present incidence rates and adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs).

RESULTS

We included 208140 patients from 57 countries. Over a period of 1066572 person-years, 2046 KS cases were diagnosed. KS incidence rates per 100000 person-years were 52 in the Asia-Pacific and ranged between 180 and 280 in the other regions. KS risk was 5 times higher in South African women (aHR, 4.56; 95% confidence intervals [CI], 2.73-7.62) than in their European counterparts, and 2 times higher in South African men (2.21; 1.34-3.63). In Europe, Latin, and North America KS risk was 6 times higher in men who have sex with men (aHR, 5.95; 95% CI, 5.09-6.96) than in women. Comparing patients with current CD4 cell counts ≥700 cells/µL with those whose counts were <50 cells/µL, the KS risk was halved in South Africa (aHR, 0.53; 95% CI, .17-1.63) but reduced by ≥95% in other regions.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite important ART-related declines in KS incidence, men and women in South Africa and men who have sex with men remain at increased KS risk, likely due to high human herpesvirus 8 coinfection rates. Early ART initiation and maintenance of high CD4 cell counts are essential to further reducing KS incidence worldwide, but additional measures might be needed, especially in Southern Africa.

Effect of Macrolide Prophylactic Therapy on AIDS-Defining Conditions and HIV-Related Mortality

Background

Mycobacterium avium–intracelllulare complex (MAC) prophylaxis is recommended for patients with CD4 counts of &lt; 50 cells/mm3. With the significant decrease in incidence of disseminated MAC infection and the effective immune recovery due to the availability of combination antiretroviral therapy (ART), the benefits of giving MAC prophylaxis were investigated. This study examined the impact of macrolide prophylaxis on AIDS-defining conditions and HIV-associated mortality in a cohort of HIV-infected patients on ART.

Methods

TREAT Asia HIV Observational Database (TAHOD) patients aged ≥18 years with a CD4 count &lt; 50 cells/mm3 at ART initiation were included. The effect of macrolide prohylaxis on HIV-associated mortality or an AIDS event (as a combined outcome) and HIV-associated mortality alone were evaluated using competing risk regression. Sensitivity analysis was conducted to assess whether results were consistent in patients with a CD4 &lt; 100 cells/mm3 at ART initiation.

Results

Of 1,345 eligible patients (78% male with median age at ART initiation of 34.8 years), 10.6% received macrolide prophylaxis. The rates of the combined outcome and HIV-associated mortality per 100 patient years were 7.35 [95% confidence interval (CI): 6.04–8.95] and 3.14 (95% CI: 2.35–4.19), respectively. After adjusting for possible confounders, macrolide use was associated with a significantly decreased risk of HIV-associated mortality (HR 0.10, 95% CI: 0.01–0.80, P = 0.031) but not the combined outcome (HR 0.86, 95% CI: 0.32–2.229, P = 0.764). Sensitivity analyses showed that, among patients with a CD4 &lt; 100 cells/ mm3 at ART initiation, these results were consistent.

Conclusion

Macrolide prophylaxis is associated with significantly improved survival among Asian HIV-infected patients with very low CD4 cell counts. The benefits of giving macrolide prophylaxis remain despite the availability of effective ART.

Disclosures

All authors: No reported disclosures.

Cardiovascular Disease and Cardiovascular Disease Risk in HIV-Positive Populations in the Asian Region

Introduction:

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are becoming more prevalent in HIV-infected populations as they age largely due to improved treatment outcomes. Assessment of CVD risk and CVD risk factors in HIV-positive populations has focused on high income settings, while there are limited studies evaluating CVD in HIV-positive populations in the Asian region.

Materials and Methods:

We provided an overview of the prevalence and incidence of CVD and its risk factors in adult HIV-positive populations, and of the strategies currently in place for CVD management in the Asian region.

Results:

Studies from the Asian region showed that CVD and CVD risk factors, such as dyslipidaemia, elevated blood glucose, obesity and smoking, are highly prevalent in HIV-positive populations. A number of studies suggested that HIV infection and antiretroviral therapy may contribute to increased CVD risk. National HIV treatment guidelines provide some directions regarding CVD risk prevention and management in the HIV-infected population, however, they are limited in number and scope.

Conclusion:

Development and consolidation of guidelines for integrated CVD and HIV care are essential to control the burden of CVD in HIV-positive populations. To inform guidelines, policies and practice in the Asian region, research should focus on exploring appropriate CVD risk screening strategies and estimating current and future CVD mortality and morbidity rates.

Smoking and projected cardiovascular risk in an HIV-positive Asian regional cohort

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence and characteristics associated with current smoking in an Asian HIV-positive cohort, to calculate the predictive risks of cardiovascular disease (CVD), coronary heart disease (CHD) and myocardial infarction (MI), and to identify the impact that simulated interventions may have.

METHODS

Logistic regression analysis was used to distinguish associated current smoking characteristics. Five-year predictive risks of CVD, CHD and MI and the impact of simulated interventions were calculated utilizing the Data Collection on Adverse Effects of Anti-HIV Drugs Study (D:A:D) algorithm.

RESULTS

Smoking status data were collected from 4274 participants and 1496 of these had sufficient data for simulated intervention calculations. Current smoking prevalence in these two groups was similar (23.2% vs. 19.9%, respectively). Characteristics associated with current smoking included age > 50 years compared with 30-39 years [odds ratio (OR) 0.65; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.51-0.83], HIV exposure through injecting drug use compared with heterosexual exposure (OR 3.03; 95% CI 2.25-4.07), and receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) at study sites in Singapore, South Korea, Malaysia, Japan and Vietnam in comparison to Thailand (all OR > 2). Women were less likely to smoke than men (OR 0.11; 95% CI 0.08-0.14). In simulated interventions, smoking cessation demonstrated the greatest impact in reducing CVD and CHD risk and closely approximated the impact of switching from abacavir to an alternate antiretroviral in the reduction of 5-year MI risk.

CONCLUSIONS

Multiple interventions could reduce CVD, CHD and MI risk in Asian HIV-positive patients, with smoking cessation potentially being the most influential.

Factors associated with pre-treatment HIV RNA: application for the use of abacavir and rilpivirine as the first-line regimen for HIV-infected patients in resource-limited settings

Background

Abacavir and rilpivirine are alternative antiretroviral drugs for treatment-naïve HIV-infected patients. However, both drugs are only recommended for the patients who have pre-treatment HIV RNA <100,000 copies/mL. In resource-limited settings, pre-treatment HIV RNA is not routinely performed and not widely available. The aims of this study are to determine factors associated with pre-treatment HIV RNA <100,000 copies/mL and to construct a model to predict this outcome.

Methods

HIV-infected adults enrolled in the TREAT Asia HIV Observational Database were eligible if they had an HIV RNA measurement documented at the time of ART initiation. The dataset was randomly split into a derivation data set (75% of patients) and a validation data set (25%). Factors associated with pre-treatment HIV RNA <100,000 copies/mL were evaluated by logistic regression adjusted for study site. A prediction model and prediction scores were created.

Results

A total of 2592 patients were enrolled for the analysis. Median [interquartile range (IQR)] age was 35.8 (29.9–42.5) years; CD4 count was 147 (50–248) cells/mm³; and pre-treatment HIV RNA was 100,000 (34,045–301,075) copies/mL. Factors associated with pre-treatment HIV RNA <100,000 copies/mL were age <30 years [OR 1.40 vs. 41–50 years; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.10–1.80, p = 0.01], body mass index >30 kg/m² (OR 2.4 vs. <18.5 kg/m²; 95% CI 1.1–5.1, p = 0.02), anemia (OR 1.70; 95% CI 1.40–2.10, p < 0.01), CD4 count >350 cells/mm³ (OR 3.9 vs. <100 cells/mm³; 95% CI 2.0–4.1, p < 0.01), total lymphocyte count >2000 cells/mm³ (OR 1.7 vs. <1000 cells/mm³; 95% CI 1.3–2.3, p < 0.01), and no prior AIDS-defining illness (OR 1.8; 95% CI 1.5–2.3, p < 0.01). Receiver-operator characteristic (ROC) analysis yielded area under the curve of 0.70 (95% CI 0.67–0.72) among derivation patients and 0.69 (95% CI 0.65–0.74) among validation patients. A cut off score >25 yielded the sensitivity of 46.7%, specificity of 79.1%, positive predictive value of 67.7%, and negative predictive value of 61.2% for prediction of pre-treatment HIV RNA <100,000 copies/mL among derivation patients.

Conclusion

A model prediction for pre-treatment HIV RNA <100,000 copies/mL produced an area under the ROC curve of 0.70. A larger sample size for prediction model development as well as for model validation is warranted.

Incidence of syphilis seroconversion among HIV-infected persons in Asia: results from the TREAT Asia HIV Observational Database

INTRODUCTION

Outbreaks of syphilis have been described among HIV-infected men who have sex with men (MSM) in Western communities, whereas reports in Asian countries are limited. We aimed to characterize the incidence and temporal trends of syphilis among HIV-infected MSM compared with HIV-infected non-MSM in Asian countries.

METHODS

Patients enrolled in the TREAT Asia HIV Observational Database cohort and with a negative non-treponemal test since enrolment were analyzed. Incidence of syphilis seroconversion, defined as a positive non-treponemal test after previously testing negative, was evaluated among patients at sites performing non-treponemal tests at least annually. Factors associated with syphilis seroconversion were investigated at sites doing non-treponemal testing in all new patients and subsequently testing routinely or when patients were suspected of having syphilis.

RESULTS

We included 1010 patients from five sites that performed non-treponemal tests in all new patients; those included had negative non-treponemal test results during enrolment and subsequent follow-ups. Among them, 657 patients were from three sites conducting regular non-treponemal testing. The incidence of syphilis seroconversion was 5.38/100 person-years (PY). Incidence was higher in MSM than non-MSM (7.64/100 PY vs. 2.44/100 PY, p<0.001). Among MSM, the incidence rate ratio (IRR) for every additional year from 2009 was 1.19 (p=0.051). MSM status (IRR 3.48, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.88-6.47), past syphilis diagnosis (IRR 5.15, 95% CI 3.69-7.17) and younger age (IRR 0.84 for every additional 10 years, 95% CI 0.706-0.997) were significantly associated with syphilis seroconversion.

CONCLUSIONS

We observed a higher incidence of syphilis seroconversion among HIV-infected MSM and a trend to increasing annual incidence. Regular screening for syphilis and targeted interventions to limit transmission are needed in this population.

Renal Dysfunction during Tenofovir Use in a Regional Cohort of HIV-Infected Individuals in the Asia-Pacific

BACKGROUND

In resource-limited settings, routine monitoring of renal function during antiretroviral therapy (ART) has not been recommended. However, concerns for tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF)-related nephrotoxicity persist with increased use.

METHODS

We investigated serum creatinine (S-Cr) monitoring rates before and during ART and the incidence and prevalence of renal dysfunction after starting TDF by using data from a regional cohort of HIV-infected individuals in the Asia-Pacific. Time to renal dysfunction was defined as time from TDF initiation to the decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) to <60 ml/min/1.73m2 with >30% reduction from baseline using the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) equation or the decision to stop TDF for reported TDF-nephrotoxicity. Predictors of S-Cr monitoring rates were assessed by Poisson regression and risk factors for developing renal dysfunction were assessed by Cox regression.

RESULTS

Among 2,425 patients who received TDF, S-Cr monitoring rates increased from 1.01 to 1.84 per person per year after starting TDF (incidence rate ratio 1.68, 95%CI 1.62-1.74, p <0.001). Renal dysfunction on TDF occurred in 103 patients over 5,368 person-years of TDF use (4.2%; incidence 1.75 per 100 person-years). Risk factors for developing renal dysfunction included older age (>50 vs. ≤30, hazard ratio [HR] 5.39, 95%CI 2.52-11.50, p <0.001; and using PI-based regimen (HR 1.93, 95%CI 1.22-3.07, p = 0.005). Having an eGFR prior to TDF (pre-TDF eGFR) of ≥60 ml/min/1.73m2 showed a protective effect (HR 0.38, 95%CI, 0.17-0.85, p = 0.018).

CONCLUSIONS

Renal dysfunction on commencing TDF use was not common, however, older age, lower baseline eGFR and PI-based ART were associated with higher risk of renal dysfunction during TDF use in adult HIV-infected individuals in the Asia-Pacific region.

Elevated CD8 T-cell counts and virological failure in HIV-infected patients after combination antiretroviral therapy

Elevated CD8 counts with combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) initiation may be an early warning indicator for future treatment failure. Thus, we investigated whether elevated CD8 counts were associated with virological failure (VF) in the first 4 years of cART in Asian HIV-infected patients in a multicenter regional cohort.We included patients from the TREAT Asia HIV Observational Database (TAHOD). Patients were included in the analysis if they started cART between 1996 and 2013 with at least one CD8 measurement within 6 months prior to cART initiation and at least one CD8 and viral load (VL) measurement beyond 6 months after starting cART. We defined VF as VL ≥400 copies/mL after 6 months on cART. Elevated CD8 was defined as CD8 ≥1200 cells/μL. Time to VF was modeled using Cox regression analysis, stratified by site.In total, 2475 patients from 19 sites were included in this analysis, of whom 665 (27%) experienced VF in the first 4 years of cART. The overall rate of VF was 12.95 per 100 person-years. In the multivariate model, the most recent elevated CD8 was significantly associated with a greater hazard of VF (HR = 1.35, 95% CI 1.14-1.61; P = 0.001). However, the sensitivity analysis showed that time-lagged CD8 measured at least 6 months prior to our virological endpoint was not statistically significant (P = 0.420).This study indicates that the relationship between the most recent CD8 count and VF was possibly due to the CD8 cells reacting to the increase in VL rather than causing the VL increase itself. However, CD8 levels may be a useful indicator for VF in HIV-infected patients after starting cART.

AIDS-defining illness diagnosed within 90 days after starting highly active antiretroviral therapy among patients from the TREAT Asia HIV Observational Database

Using data from TREAT Asia HIV Observational Database (TAHOD), this paper aims to assess the rate of, and factors associated with the diagnosis of new AIDS-defining illness (ADI) within 90 days after antiretroviral treatment. Patients starting three or more antiretroviral combinations and having subsequent follow-up were included. New ADI cases were checked for evidence of immune reconstitution syndrome (IRS). Among the 1185 patients included, 75 (6.3%) were diagnosed with a new ADI within 90 days, giving a rate of 26.8/100 person-years, compared with a further 3.6% cumulative incidence of new ADI between 90 days to one year (4.2/100 person-years). Of the 75 patients, 21 were judged as definitive or presumptive IRS, giving a rate of 7.3/100 person-years. Patients with new ADI generally had lower CD4 counts before treatment started (median, 43 cells/μL). Lower CD4 count, lower body mass index and starting treatment in the same year as the first HIV-positive test done were associated with developing a new ADI. The higher rate of new ADI within 90 days may be partly explained by IRS occurring shortly after treatment. Although it is difficult to identify IRS from observational data, it appears that in TAHOD setting IRS was relatively uncommon.

Effects of unplanned treatment interruptions on HIV treatment failure - results from TAHOD

OBJECTIVES

Treatment interruptions (TIs) of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) are known to lead to unfavourable treatment outcomes but do still occur in resource-limited settings. We investigated the effects of TI associated with adverse events (AEs) and non-AE-related reasons, including their durations, on treatment failure after cART resumption in HIV-infected individuals in Asia.

METHODS

Patients initiating cART between 2006 and 2013 were included. TI was defined as stopping cART for >1 day. Treatment failure was defined as confirmed virological, immunological or clinical failure. Time to treatment failure during cART was analysed using Cox regression, not including periods off treatment. Covariables with P < 0.10 in univariable analyses were included in multivariable analyses, where P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Of 4549 patients from 13 countries in Asia, 3176 (69.8%) were male and the median age was 34 years. A total of 111 (2.4%) had TIs due to AEs and 135 (3.0%) had TIs for other reasons. Median interruption times were 22 days for AE and 148 days for non-AE TIs. In multivariable analyses, interruptions >30 days were associated with failure (31-180 days HR = 2.66, 95%CI (1.70-4.16); 181-365 days HR = 6.22, 95%CI (3.26-11.86); and >365 days HR = 9.10, 95% CI (4.27-19.38), all P < 0.001, compared to 0-14 days). Reasons for previous TI were not statistically significant (P = 0.158).

CONCLUSIONS

Duration of interruptions of more than 30 days was the key factor associated with large increases in subsequent risk of treatment failure. If TI is unavoidable, its duration should be minimised to reduce the risk of failure after treatment resumption.

Hepatitis B and C Co-Infection in HIV Patients from the TREAT Asia HIV Observational Database: Analysis of Risk Factors and Survival

Background

We assessed the effects of hepatitis B (HBV) or hepatitis C (HCV) co-infection on outcomes of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in HIV-infected patients enrolled in the TREAT Asia HIV Observational Database (TAHOD), a multi-center cohort of HIV-infected patients in the Asia-Pacific region.

Methods

Patients testing HBs antigen (Ag) or HCV antibody (Ab) positive within enrollment into TAHOD were considered HBV or HCV co-infected. Factors associated with HBV and/or HCV co-infection were assessed by logistic regression models. Factors associated with post-ART HIV immunological response (CD4 change after six months) and virological response (HIV RNA <400 copies/ml after 12 months) were also determined. Survival was assessed by the Kaplan-Meier method and log rank test.

Results

A total of 7,455 subjects were recruited by December 2012. Of patients tested, 591/5656 (10.4%) were HBsAg positive, 794/5215 (15.2%) were HCVAb positive, and 88/4966 (1.8%) were positive for both markers. In multivariate analysis, HCV co-infection, age, route of HIV infection, baseline CD4 count, baseline HIV RNA, and HIV-1 subtype were associated with immunological recovery. Age, route of HIV infection, baseline CD4 count, baseline HIV RNA, ART regimen, prior ART and HIV-1 subtype, but not HBV or HCV co-infection, affected HIV RNA suppression. Risk factors affecting mortality included HCV co-infection, age, CDC stage, baseline CD4 count, baseline HIV RNA and prior mono/dual ART. Shortest survival was seen in subjects who were both HBV- and HCV-positive.

Conclusion

In this Asian cohort of HIV-infected patients, HCV co-infection, but not HBV co-infection, was associated with lower CD4 cell recovery after ART and increased mortality.

Late Presentation into Care of HIV Disease and Its Associated Factors in Asia: Results of TAHOD

Many HIV-infected individuals do not enter health care until late in the infection course. Despite encouraging earlier testing, this situation has continued for several years. We investigated the prevalence of late presenters and factors associated with late presentation among HIV-infected patients in an Asian regional cohort. This cohort study included HIV-infected patients with their first positive HIV test during 2003-2012 and CD4 count and clinical status data within 3 months of that test. Factors associated with late presentation into care (CD4 count <200 cells/μl or an AIDS-defining event within ±3 months of first positive HIV test) were analyzed in a random effects logistic regression model. Among 3,744 patients, 2,681 (72%) were late presenters. In the multivariable model, older patients were more likely to be late presenters than younger (≤30 years) patients [31-40, 41-50, and ≥51 years: odds ratio (OR) = 1.57, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.31-1.88; OR = 2.01, 95% CI 1.58-2.56; and OR = 1.69, 95% CI 1.23-2.31, respectively; all p ≤ 0.001]. Injecting drug users (IDU) were more likely (OR = 2.15, 95% CI 1.42-3.27, p < 0.001) and those with homosexual HIV exposure were less likely (OR = 0.45, 95% CI 0.35-0.58, p < 0.001) to be late presenters compared to those with heterosexual HIV exposure. Females were less likely to be late presenters (OR = 0.44, 95% CI 0.36-0.53, p < 0.001). The year of first positive HIV test was not associated with late presentation. Efforts to reduce the patients who first seek HIV care at the late stage are needed. The identified risk factors associated with late presentation should be utilized in formulating targeted public health intervention to improve earlier entry into HIV care.

Comparison of genotypic and virtual phenotypic drug resistance interpretations with laboratory-based phenotypes among CRF01_AE and subtype B HIV-infected individuals

HIV drug resistance assessments and interpretations can be obtained from genotyping (GT), virtual phenotyping (VP) and laboratory-based phenotyping (PT). We compared resistance calls obtained from GT and VP with those from PT (GT-PT and VP-PT) among CRF01_AE and subtype B HIV-1 infected patients. GT predictions were obtained from the Stanford HIV database. VP and PT were obtained from Janssen Diagnostics BVBA's vircoType(TM) HIV-1 and Antivirogram®, respectively. With PT assumed as the "gold standard," the area under the curve (AUC) and the Bland-Altman plot were used to assess the level of agreement in resistance interpretations. A total of 80 CRF01_AE samples from Asia and 100 subtype B from Janssen Diagnostics BVBA's database were analysed. CRF01_AE showed discordances ranging from 3 to 27 samples for GT-PT and 1 to 20 samples for VP-PT. The GT-PT and VP-PT AUCs were 0.76-0.97 and 0.81-0.99, respectively. Subtype B showed 3-61 discordances for GT-PT and 2-75 discordances for VP-PT. The AUCs ranged from 0.55 to 0.95 for GT-PT and 0.55 to 0.97 for VP-PT. Didanosine had the highest proportion of discordances and/or AUC in all comparisons. The patient with the largest didanosine FC difference in each subtype harboured Q151M mutation. Overall, GT and VP predictions for CRF01_AE performed significantly better than subtype B for three NRTIs. Although discrepancies exist, GT and VP resistance interpretations in HIV-1 CRF01_AE strains were highly robust in comparison with the gold-standard PT.

Tenofovir-based antiretroviral therapy in HBV-HIV coinfection: results from the TREAT Asia HIV Observational Database

BACKGROUND

The World Health Organization recommends HBV-HIV-coinfected individuals start antiretroviral therapy containing tenofovir. Here we describe first-line tenofovir use and treatment outcomes in coinfected patients in Asia.

METHODS

HBV surface antigen positive patients enrolled in the TREAT Asia HIV Observational Database who started first-line antiretroviral therapy were included. Logistic regression adjusted for period of treatment initiation was used to determine factors associated with tenofovir use. Generalized estimating equations were used to evaluate factors associated with alanine transaminase levels and CD4(+) T-cell count on treatment.

RESULTS

There were 548 eligible patients, of whom 149 (27.2%) started tenofovir. Patients treated in high/high-middle income countries (odds ratio 4.4 versus low/low-middle, 95% CI 2.6, 7.4; P<0.001) and those with elevated baseline alanine transaminase (odds ratio 4.2 versus normal, 95% CI 2.4, 7.2; P<0.001) were more likely to receive tenofovir. Hepatitis C antibody positive patients (odds ratio 0.4 versus negative, 95% CI 0.2, 0.8; P=0.008) were less likely. In those starting antiretroviral therapy with elevated alanine transaminase, mean reduction after tenofovir initiation was 11.2 IU/l (95% CI 0.9, 21.6; P=0.034) lower compared with those using a non-tenofovir-based regimen although this did not significantly increase the chance of alanine transaminase normalization. Tenofovir use was not associated with a superior CD4(+) T-cell response.

CONCLUSIONS

HBV-HIV-coinfected patients in Asia are most likely to receive tenofovir if they are treated in a high/high-middle income country, have elevated alanine transaminase levels and are hepatitis C antibody negative. Compared to other antiretroviral therapies, tenofovir-based regimens more effectively reduce liver inflammation in HBV-HIV-coinfection but do not result in superior CD4(+) T-cell recovery.

Transmitted drug resistance in recently infected HIV-positive Individuals from four urban locations across Asia (2007-2010) - TASER-S

BACKGROUND

The availability of HIV antiretroviral therapy (ART) has been associated with the development of transmitted drug resistance-associated mutations (TDRM). TDRM can compromise treatment effectiveness in patients initiating ART and the prevalence can vary in different clinical settings. In this study, we investigated the proportion of TDRM in treatment-naïve, recently infected HIV-positive individuals sampled from four urban locations across Asia between 2007-2010.

METHODS

Patients enrolled in the TREAT Asia Studies to Evaluate Resistance - Surveillance Study (TASER-S) were genotyped prior to ART initiation, with resulting resistance mutations analysed according to the WHO 2009 list.

RESULTS

Proportions of TDRM from recently infected individuals from TASER-S ranged from 0% to 8.7% - Hong Kong: 3/88 (3.4%, 95% CI (0.71%-9.64%)); Thailand: Bangkok: 13/277 (4.7%, 95% CI (2.5%-7.9%)), Chiang Mai: 0/17 (0%, 97.5% CI (0%-19.5%)); and the Philippines: 6/69 (8.7%, 95% CI (3.3%-18.0%)). There was no significant increase in TDRM over time across all four clinical settings.

CONCLUSIONS

The observed proportion of TDRM in TASER-S patients from Hong Kong, Thailand and the Philippines was low to moderate during the study period. Regular monitoring of TDRM should be encouraged, especially with the scale-up of ART at higher CD4 levels.

Trends of CD4 cell count levels at the initiation of antiretroviral therapy over time and factors associated with late initiation of antiretroviral therapy among Asian HIV-positive patients

INTRODUCTION

Although antiretroviral therapy (ART) has been rapidly scaled up in Asia, most HIV-positive patients in the region still present with late-stage HIV disease. We aimed to determine trends of pre-ART CD4 levels over time in Asian HIV-positive patients and to determine factors associated with late ART initiation.

METHODS

Data from two regional cohort observational databases were analyzed for trends in median CD4 cell counts at ART initiation and the proportion of late ART initiation (CD4 cell counts <200 cells/mm(3) or prior AIDS diagnosis). Predictors for late ART initiation and mortality were determined.

RESULTS

A total of 2737 HIV-positive ART-naïve patients from 22 sites in 13 Asian countries and territories were eligible. The overall median (IQR) CD4 cell count at ART initiation was 150 (46-241) cells/mm(3). Median CD4 cell counts at ART initiation increased over time, from a low point of 115 cells/mm(3) in 2008 to a peak of 302 cells/mm(3) after 2011 (p for trend 0.002). The proportion of patients with late ART initiation significantly decreased over time from 79.1% before 2007 to 36.3% after 2011 (p for trend <0.001). Factors associated with late ART initiation were year of ART initiation (e.g. 2010 vs. before 2007; OR 0.40, 95% CI 0.27-0.59; p<0.001), sex (male vs. female; OR 1.51, 95% CI 1.18-1.93; p=0.001) and HIV exposure risk (heterosexual vs. homosexual; OR 1.66, 95% CI 1.24-2.23; p=0.001 and intravenous drug use vs. homosexual; OR 3.03, 95% CI 1.77-5.21; p<0.001). Factors associated with mortality after ART initiation were late ART initiation (HR 2.13, 95% CI 1.19-3.79; p=0.010), sex (male vs. female; HR 2.12, 95% CI 1.31-3.43; p=0.002), age (≥51 vs. ≤30 years; HR 3.91, 95% CI 2.18-7.04; p<0.001) and hepatitis C serostatus (positive vs. negative; HR 2.48, 95% CI 1.-4.36; p=0.035).

CONCLUSIONS

Median CD4 cell count at ART initiation among Asian patients significantly increases over time but the proportion of patients with late ART initiation is still significant. ART initiation at higher CD4 cell counts remains a challenge. Strategic interventions to increase earlier diagnosis of HIV infection and prompt more rapid linkage to ART must be implemented.

Immunodeficiency at the start of combination antiretroviral therapy in low-, middle-, and high-income countries

OBJECTIVE

To describe the CD4 cell count at the start of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) in low-income (LIC), lower middle-income (LMIC), upper middle-income (UMIC), and high-income (HIC) countries.

METHODS

Patients aged 16 years or older starting cART in a clinic participating in a multicohort collaboration spanning 6 continents (International epidemiological Databases to Evaluate AIDS and ART Cohort Collaboration) were eligible. Multilevel linear regression models were adjusted for age, gender, and calendar year; missing CD4 counts were imputed.

RESULTS

In total, 379,865 patients from 9 LIC, 4 LMIC, 4 UMIC, and 6 HIC were included. In LIC, the median CD4 cell count at cART initiation increased by 83% from 80 to 145 cells/μL between 2002 and 2009. Corresponding increases in LMIC, UMIC, and HIC were from 87 to 155 cells/μL (76% increase), 88 to 135 cells/μL (53%), and 209 to 274 cells/μL (31%). In 2009, compared with LIC, median counts were 13 cells/μL [95% confidence interval (CI): -56 to +30] lower in LMIC, 22 cells/μL (-62 to +18) lower in UMIC, and 112 cells/μL (+75 to +149) higher in HIC. They were 23 cells/μL (95% CI: +18 to +28 cells/μL) higher in women than men. Median counts were 88 cells/μL (95% CI: +35 to +141 cells/μL) higher in countries with an estimated national cART coverage >80%, compared with countries with <40% coverage.

CONCLUSIONS

Median CD4 cell counts at the start of cART increased 2000-2009 but remained below 200 cells/μL in LIC and MIC and below 300 cells/μL in HIC. Earlier start of cART will require substantial efforts and resources globally.

Prognostic significance of the interval between the initiation of antiretroviral therapy and the initiation of anti-tuberculosis treatment in HIV/tuberculosis-coinfected patients: results from the TREAT Asia HIV Observational Database

OBJECTIVES

We evaluated the effect of the time interval between the initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) and the initiation of tuberculosis (TB) treatment on clinical outcomes in HIV/TB-coinfected patients in an Asian regional cohort.

METHODS

Adult HIV/TB-coinfected patients in an observational HIV-infected cohort database who had a known date of ART initiation and a history of TB treatment were eligible for study inclusion. The time interval between the initiation of ART and the initiation of TB treatment was categorized as follows: TB diagnosed while on ART, ART initiated ≤ 90 days after initiation of TB treatment ('early ART'), ART initiated > 90 days after initiation of TB treatment ('delayed ART'), and ART not started. Outcomes were assessed using survival analyses.

RESULTS

A total of 768 HIV/TB-coinfected patients were included in this study. The median CD4 T-cell count at TB diagnosis was 100 [interquartile range (IQR) 40-208] cells/μL. Treatment outcomes were not significantly different between the groups with early ART and delayed ART initiation. Kaplan-Meier analysis indicated that mortality was highest for those diagnosed with TB while on ART (3.77 deaths per 100 person-years), and the prognoses of other groups were not different (in deaths per 100 person-years: 2.12 for early ART, 1.46 for delayed ART, and 2.94 for ART not started). In a multivariate model, the interval between ART initiation and TB therapy initiation did not significantly impact all-cause mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

A negative impact of delayed ART in patients coinfected with TB was not observed in this observational cohort of moderately to severely immunosuppressed patients. The broader impact of earlier ART initiation in actual clinical practice should be monitored more closely.

Comparisons of Primary HIV-1 Drug Resistance between Recent and Chronic HIV-1 Infection within a Sub-Regional Cohort of Asian Patients

Background

The emergence and transmission of HIV-1 drug resistance (HIVDR) has raised concerns after rapid global antiretroviral therapy (ART) scale-up. There are limited data on the epidemiology of primary HIVDR in resource-limited settings in Asia. We aimed to determine the prevalence and compare the distribution of HIVDR in a cohort of ART-naïve Asian patients with recent and chronic HIV-1 infection.

Methods

Multicenter prospective study was conducted in ART-naïve patients between 2007 and 2010. Resistance-associated mutations (RAMs) were assessed using the World Health Organization 2009 list for surveillance of primary HIVDR.

Results

A total of 458 patients with recent and 1,340 patients with chronic HIV-1 infection were included in the analysis. The overall prevalence of primary HIVDR was 4.6%. Recently infected patients had a higher prevalence of primary HIVDR (6.1% vs. 4.0%, p = 0.065) and frequencies of RAMs to protease inhibitors (PIs; 3.9% vs. 1.0%, p<0.001). Among those with recent infection, the most common RAMs to nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) were M184I/V and T215D/E/F/I/S/Y (1.1%), to non-NRTIs was Y181C (1.3%), and to PIs was M46I (1.5%). Of patients with chronic infection, T215D/E/F/I/S/Y (0.8%; NRTI), Y181C (0.5%; non-NRTI), and M46I (0.4%; PI) were the most common RAMs. K70R (p = 0.016) and M46I (p = 0.026) were found more frequently among recently infected patients. In multivariate logistic regression analysis in patients with chronic infection, heterosexual contact as a risk factor for HIV-1 infection was less likely to be associated with primary HIVDR compared to other risk categories (odds ratio 0.34, 95% confidence interval 0.20–0.59, p<0.001).

Conclusions

The prevalence of primary HIVDR was higher among patients with recent than chronic HIV-1 infection in our cohort, but of borderline statistical significance. Chronically infected patients with non-heterosexual risks for HIV were more likely to have primary HIVDR.

Predictors of clinical progression in HIV-1-infected adults initiating combination antiretroviral therapy with advanced disease in the Asia-Pacific region: results from the TREAT Asia HIV observational database

The majority of HIV-infected patients in developing countries commences combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) with advanced disease. We examined predictors of disease progression in patients initiating cART with CD4 count ≤200 cells/mm(3) in the TREAT Asia HIV Observational Database. The main outcome measure was progression to either an AIDS-defining illness or death occurring 6 months after initiation of cART. We used survival analysis methods. A total of 1255 patients contributed 2696 person years of follow-up; 73 were diagnosed with AIDS and 9 died. The rate of progression to the combined end point was 3.0 per 100 person years. The factors significantly associated with a higher risk of disease progression were Indian ethnicity, infection through intravenous drug use, lower CD4 count, and hemoglobin ≤130 g/dL at 6 months. In conclusion, measurements of CD4 count and hemoglobin at month 6 may be useful for early identification of disease progression in resource-limited settings.

Comparison of predicted susceptibility between genotype and virtual phenotype HIV drug resistance interpretation systems among treatment-naive HIV-infected patients in Asia: TASER-M cohort analysis

Background

Accurate interpretation of HIV drug resistance (HIVDR) testing is challenging, yet important for patient care. We compared genotyping interpretation, based on the Stanford University HIV Drug Resistance Database (Stanford HIVdb), and virtual phenotyping, based on the Janssen Diagnostics BVBA’s vircoTYPE™ HIV-1, and investigated their level of agreement in antiretroviral (ARV) naive patients in Asia, where non-B subtypes predominate.

Methods

Sequences from 1301 ARV-naive patients enrolled in the TREAT Asia Studies to Evaluate Resistance – Monitoring Study (TASER-M) were analysed by both interpreting systems. Interpretations from both Stanford HIVdb and vircoTYPE™ HIV-1 were initially grouped into 2 levels: susceptible and non-susceptible. Discrepancy was defined as a discordant result between the susceptible and non-susceptible interpretations from the two systems for the same ARV. Further analysis was performed when interpretations from both systems were categorised into 3 levels: susceptible, intermediate and resistant; whereby discrepancies could be categorised as major discrepancies and minor discrepancies. Major discrepancy was defined as having a susceptible result from one system and resistant from the other. Minor discrepancy corresponded to having an intermediate interpretation in one system, with a susceptible or resistant result in the other. The level of agreement was analysed using the prevalence adjusted bias adjusted kappa (PABAK).

Results

Overall, the agreement was high, with each ARV being in “almost perfect agreement”, using Landis and Koch’s categorisation. Highest discordance was observed for efavirenz (75/1301, 5.8%), all arising from susceptible Stanford HIVdb versus non-susceptible vircoTYPE™ HIV-1 predictions. Protease Inhibitors had highest level of concordance with PABAKs all above 0.99, followed by Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors with PABAKs above 0.97 and non-NRTIs with the lowest PABAK of 0.88. The 68/75 patients with discordant efavirenz results harboured the V179D/E mutations compared to 7/1226 with no efavirenz discrepancy (p-value <0.001). In the 3-level comparison, all but one of the discrepancies was minor.

Conclusions

The two systems agreed well with lowest concordance observed for efavirenz. When interpreting HIVDR, especially in non-B subtypes, clinical correlation is crucial, in particular when efavirenz resistance is interpreted based on V179D/E.

AIDS vaccine for Asia Network (AVAN): expanding the regional role in developing HIV vaccines

The HIV/AIDS pandemic continues to spread and an AIDS vaccine is urgently needed. Regional alliances and international collaborations can foster the development and evaluation of the next generation of AIDS vaccine candidates. The importance of coordinating and harmonizing efforts across regional alliances has become abundantly clear. We recently formed the AIDS Vaccine for Asia Network (AVAN) to help facilitate the development of a regional AIDS vaccine strategy that accelerates research and development of an AIDS vaccine through government advocacy, improved coordination, and harmonization of research; develops clinical trial and manufacturing capacity; supports ethical and regulatory frameworks; and ensures community participation.

Measures of site resourcing predict virologic suppression, immunologic response and HIV disease progression following highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) in the TREAT Asia HIV Observational Database (TAHOD)

OBJECTIVES

Surrogate markers of HIV disease progression are HIV RNA in plasma viral load (VL) and CD4 cell count (immune function). Despite improved international access to antiretrovirals, surrogate marker diagnostics are not routinely available in resource-limited settings. Therefore, the objective was to assess effects of economic and diagnostic resourcing on patient treatment outcomes.

METHODS

Analyses were based on 2333 patients initiating highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) from 2000 onwards. Sites were categorized by World Bank country income criteria (high/low) and annual frequency of VL (> or = 3, 1-2 or <1) or CD4 (> or = 3 or <3) testing. Endpoints were time to AIDS/death and change in CD4 cell count and VL suppression (<400 HIV-1 RNA copies/mL) at 12 months. Demographics, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) classification, baseline VL/CD4 cell counts, hepatitis B/C coinfections and HAART regimen were covariates. Time to AIDS/death was analysed by proportional hazards models. CD4 and VL endpoints were analysed using linear and logistic regression, respectively.

RESULTS

Increased disease progression was associated with site-reported VL testing less than once per year [hazard ratio (HR)=1.4; P=0.032], severely symptomatic HIV infection (HR=1.4; P=0.003) and hepatitis C virus coinfection (HR=1.8; P=0.011). A total of 1120 patients (48.2%) had change in CD4 cell count data. Smaller increases were associated with older age (P<0.001) and 'Other' HIV source exposures, including injecting drug use and blood products (P=0.043). A total of 785 patients (33.7%) contributed to the VL suppression analyses. Patients from sites with VL testing less than once per year [odds ratio (OR)=0.30; P<0.001] and reporting 'Other' HIV exposures experienced reduced suppression (OR=0.28; P<0.001).

CONCLUSION

Low measures of site resourcing were associated with less favourable patient outcomes, including a 35% increase in disease progression in patients from sites with VL testing less than once per year.