Mortality and survival of tuberculosis coinfected patients living with AIDS in São Paulo, Brazil: a 12-year cohort study.

BACKGROUND: TB is still one of the leading causes of death among HIV patients. This study evaluates the effect of TB on the mortality rate, survival time, and predictors of survival in patients with AIDS living in different areas in São Paulo State (SPS). METHODS: Retrospective cohort of adolescents and adults with AIDS, diagnosed between 2003 and 2007 and followed-up until 2014. Data were obtained from the Brazilian Ministry of Health. Mortality rates were estimated by person-years. Survival analysis used the date of diagnosis as the reference for the construction of Kaplan-Meier curves. The Cox model was used for the investigation of survival-associated factors. RESULTS: A total of 35,515 patients were included, of whom 63.0% were male; 64.7% at the age group of 30 to 49 years, 64.4% were white, 12.9% co-infected with TB, and 37.6% had CD4 count above 200 cells/mm3 at diagnosis of AIDS. The 12-year survival probabilities were 74.1% and 55.7% among patients without and with TB co-infection, respectively. After adjustment for sex, age and year of diagnosis, the following exposures were independently associated with lower survival: residing in municipalities of the Interior (Hazard ratio (HR) = 1.43) and Coastal Area (HR = 1.9); illiteracy (HR = 2.61); being co-infected with TB (HR = 1.70); CD4 count below 200 cells/mm3 at AIDS diagnosis (HR = 2.31); viral load above 500 copies/ml at AIDS diagnosis (HR = 1.99); HAART1 regimen (one non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor or boosted old protease inhibitors) (HR = 1.94). CONCLUSION: The impact of TB on survival of AIDS was heterogeneous, and affected by age, years of formal education, early AIDS diagnosis, and proper ARV treatment. These factors may not fully explain the different survival outcomes in each of the four regions within the same state. These results may subsidize focused interventions and public health policies conveying specific needs in each of the areas.

Prevalence of HIV-1 transmitted drug resistance and viral suppression among recently diagnosed adults in São Paulo, Brazil.

HIV-1 transmitted drug resistance (TDR) mutations may reduce the efficacy of antiretroviral therapy (ART), but pre-treatment testing to determine the virus genotype can improve the efficacy of ART. Unfortunately, issues related to cost and logistics of pre-treatment testing limit its use in resource-limited settings. We studied 596 ART-naive individuals who were newly diagnosed from 2014 to 2016 in São Paulo, Brazil, to evaluate TDR and virological outcome after 48 weeks of genotype-guided therapy. One or more TDR (based on the WHO surveillance list) was observed in 10.9% (CI 95%, 8.6-13.6) of the sequences, the most common of which was the K103 N mutation, which confers resistance to first-generation drugs of the non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) antiretroviral drug class. Dual-class (1%, 6/596) and triple-class (0.34%, 2/596) resistance were uncommon. After 48 weeks of treatment with ART, infection was suppressed to below 200 copies/mL in most patients (95%), with full suppression (RNA target not detected) in 65%. The following characteristics at patient enrollment were independently associated with a lack of full suppression: CD4 T cell counts below 500 cells/µL, viremia above 100,000 copies/mL, older age, and TDR to NNRTI. The rates of resistance were intermediate, but genotype-guided therapy resulted in high rates of viral suppression. The observed resistance profile should not be an obstacle to the use of the dolutegravir-based regimen now recommended in Brazil, but genotype testing may be warranted before initiating first-generation NNRTI-based regimens.

Survival of AIDS patients in Sao Paulo-Brazil in the pre- and post-HAART eras: a cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Brazil was the first middle-income country to provide free and universal access to AIDS treatment. Understanding the impact of this policy is key to promote ongoing improvement of current intervention strategies. The aim of this study was to compare mortality rates and survival in a cohort of AIDS patients before and after the introduction of antiretrovirals (ARV) and to investigate predictors of survival. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study of AIDS patients aged 13 years or more living in the city of Sao Paulo was conducted. All patients were recruited from an STD/HIV outpatient clinic between 1988 and 2003 and followed up until 2005. We estimated AIDS mortality rates in person-years (py) and carried out a survival analysis using the Kaplan-Meier method. The Cox proportional hazards model was used to assess predictors of survival in AIDS patients. RESULTS: The study cohort comprised 6,594 patients. The yearly mean mortality rates were 17.6, 23.2, and 7.8 per 1,000 py for the study periods 1988-1993, 1994-1996, and 1997-2003, respectively. Median survival time was 13.4 and 22.3 months for patients entering the study in the first and second study periods and survival time was 108 months or more in 72% of those entering the study during 1997-2003. Factors independently associated with shorter survival included: AIDS diagnosis during the 1994-1996 (HR 2.0) and 1988-1993 (HR 3.2) periods; 50 years of age or more (HR 2.0); exposure category of injection drug users (IDU) (HR 1.5); 8 years of schooling or less (HR 1.4); no schooling (HR 2.1); and CD4+ counts between 350 and 500 cells/mm(3) (HR 1.2) and less than 350 cells/mm(3) at AIDS diagnosis (HR 1.3). CONCLUSIONS: The study showed a strong impact following the introduction of HAART in 1996 with decreased AIDS mortality, increased survival rates, and benefits with early introduction of HAART. However, some groups of patients were less likely to benefit from the new drug regimens. Public policies promoting health equity create an enabling environment helping AIDS control programs in developing countries to achieve their goals as effectively as in developed countries.

Clinical and epidemiological features of mpox in a Brazilian reference center for HIV and sexually transmitted infections: A cross-sectional study.

Background: The 2022 mpox outbreak has affected disproportionately people living with HIV (PLWH) and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) users. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study to evaluate factors associated with laboratory diagnosis of mpox among suspected cases, and access differences between PrEP users and PLWH with confirmed diagnostic. Results: 394 mpox suspected cases were analyzed, 309 (78.4%) confirmed. Most patients with mpox were PLWH (54.4%) and 99 (32%) PrEP users. Mpox cases were likely to be between 25 and 39 years old (aOR=2.8; p=0.042), men who have sex with men/bisexual or transgender women (aOR=17.2; p< 0.001) and to have fever (aOR=4.7; p< 0.001), adenomegaly (aOR=7.2; p< 0.001) and multiple vesicular lesions (aOR=4.2; p< 0.001). Comparing PrEP users to PLWH with confirmed mpox, PrEP users had lesions predominantly with exclusive genital involvement (p=0.016); while PLWH had higher extragenital involvement (p=0.018). Conclusions: PrEP users and PLWHA were the main epidemiological groups in our cohort. Recognizing the differences between vulnerable populations can contribute to the development public policies to control mpox in settings with reduced access to vaccines.

Mpox in a Couple Living with HIV: Relapse or Reinfection?

Mpox is caused by a zoonotic orthopoxvirus capable of infecting several animal species, including humans. The analysis of cases in the current outbreak showed that, differently from what happens in the classical disease, mpox has mostly affected men who have sex with men (MSM) and bisexuals, including a high proportion of people living with HIV/AIDS. The role of the immune system in fighting mpox has been discussed in literature and experts believe that immunity conferred by natural infection may be lifelong, advocating against the possibility of reinfection by monkeypox virus. This report presents a MSM couple living with HIV with cycles of mpox lesions after two different risk exposures. The clinical course of both cases, as well as the temporal and anatomical relationship between the second cycle of monkeypox virus lesions and the second exposure, suggests the occurrence of reinfection. The genomic surveillance of monkeypox virus, a better understanding of its interaction with the human host, and knowledge of the postinfection and postvaccine protection correlation are more relevant at this moment, when we observe an intersection of the mpox multicountry outbreak with the HIV/AIDS epidemic, considering the immunosenescence and other immune system issues caused by HIV.

Underreporting of unfavorable outcomes of congenital syphilis on the Notifiable Health Conditions Information System in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, 2007-2018.

OBJECTIVE: to describe the frequency of underreporting of unfavorable outcomes of congenital syphilis in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, 2007-2018. METHODS: this was a descriptive study of cases of abortion, fetal and non-fetal deaths due to congenital syphilis reported on the Notifiable Health Conditions Information System (Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação - SINAN), and those of congenital syphilis registered in any line in the Death Certificate, on the Mortality Information System (Sistema de Informações sobre Mortalidade - SIM), by means of probabilistic and deterministic linkage. RESULTS: of the 27,713 cases of congenital syphilis reported, 1,320 progressed to death (871 fetal deaths, 449 infant deaths) and were matched to the SIM; 355 deaths (259 fetal deaths, 96 infant deaths) were not included on SINAN; there was an increase in unfavorable outcomes,11.4% for infant deaths due to congenital syphilis, 3.0% for fetal deaths and 1.9% for abortions. CONCLUSION: the use of different relationship techniques proved to be adequate to identify the frequency of underreporting of unfavorable outcomes of congenital syphilis in the state of São Paulo.

Syphilis in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, 2011‒2017. / Sífilis no estado de São Paulo, Brasil, 2011‒2017.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze how syphilis detection rates evolved from 2011 to 2017 according to sex, age and place of residence in the state of São Paulo. METHODS: A historical series was organized with data from the Notification Disease Information System. The acquired syphilis detection rates (ASDR) per 100,000 inhabitants and the acquired syphilis detection rates including pregnant women with syphilis (PASDR) per 100,000 inhabitants were described. For a trend analysis of the rates in the studied period, the Poisson Jointpoint (inflection point) model was performed, and the annual percentage change (APC) per segment and the average annual percentage change (AAPC) were estimated, with respective 95% confidence intervals (95%CI). RESULTS: A total of 205,424 cases of acquired syphilis and syphilis in pregnant women in the period were reported. The ASDR per 100,000 inhabitants ranged from 26.0 to 84.6 between 2011 and 2017 and the PASDR per 100,000 inhabitants ranged from 33.7 to 108.9; the trend was increasing in both, and an inflection point was identified dividing the ASDR and PASDR curve into two periods: 2011 to 2013 and 2013 to 2017: the AAPC found for ASDR was 21.0% (95%CI 15.5 ‒ 26.4) and the PASDR was 21.2% (95%CI 16.4 ‒ 26.1), in the age groups up to 24 years old, there was a significant growth in both sexes. A heterogeneity in the evolution of rates by region of the state was observed between 2011 and 2017. CONCLUSIONS: The increasing trend in acquired syphilis detection rates can be attributed to better adherence to notification and disproportionate involvement of young people.

OBJETIVO: Analisar a evolução, de 2011 a 2017, das taxas de detecção de sífilis notificada por sexo, faixa etária e região de residência no estado de São Paulo (ESP). MÉTODOS: Foi organizada série histórica com dados do Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação (SINAN). Foram descritas as taxas de detecção de sífilis adquirida (TDSA) e de sífilis adquirida incluindo as gestantes com sífilis (TDSAG), por 100.000 hab. Para análise de tendência da evolução das taxas no período estudado, foi empregado o modelo Jointpoint (ponto de inflexão), bem como foram estimadas a variação percentual anual (VPA) por segmento e a média da variação percentual anual (MVPA), com os respectivos intervalos de confiança de 95% (IC95%). RESULTADOS: Foram notificados 205.424 casos de sífilis adquirida e sífilis em gestantes no período. Entre 2011 e 2017, a TDSA por 100 mil habitantes variou de 26,0 a 84,6 e a TDSAG por 100 mil habitantes, de 33,7 a 108,9; a tendência foi crescente em ambas as curvas e identificou-se um ponto de inflexão dividindo a curva de TDSA e de TDSAG em dois períodos: de 2011 a 2013 e de 2013 a 2017. A MVPA encontrada da TDSA foi de 21,0% (IC95% 15,7 ‒ 26,4) e da TDSAG, de 21,2% (IC95% 16,4 ‒ -26,1). Nas faixas etárias até 24 anos ocorreu crescimento expressivo em ambos os sexos. Observou-se heterogeneidade na evolução das taxas segundo região do Estado. CONCLUSÕES: A tendência crescente das taxas de detecção de sífilis adquirida pode ser atribuída a melhor adesão à notificação e ao acometimento desproporcional dos jovens.

Acceptability of teleconsultation in a public service specialized in the prevention and care of HIV infection and other sexually transmitted infections / Aceitabilidade da teleconsulta em um serviço público especializado na prevenção e cuidado da infecção pelo HIV e outras infecções sexualmente transmissíveis

Introduction: Telemedicine was leveraged for its contribution to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 in Brazil and worldwide. Objective: We aim to evaluate the acceptability of incorporating teleconsultation through synchronized videoconference by users and professionals in a service specialized in the prevention and treatment of the human immunodeficiency virus and other sexually transmitted infections, and to identify associated factors. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study with 410 users and 57 professionals who answered a category-standardized questionnaire. Predictors of acceptability were assessed using logistic regression model. Results: A total of 364 (88.8%) users said they would accept the modality. The factors positively associated with the odds of acceptance were the self-assessment of having favorable conditions to participate in a teleconsultation (aOR 54.8; 95%CI 12.4­242.1; p<0.001), the perception of saving money (aOR 5.2; 95%CI 1.9­14.0; p=0.001), and perceived convenience of the modality (aOR 6.7; 95%CI 2.9­15.9; p<0.001). Factors associated with reduced odds of acceptance were the fear of not being evaluated well (aOR 0.2; 95%CI 0.1­0.4; p<0.001), or remaining long without seeing the professional (aOR 0.2; 95%CI 0.1­0.5; p<0.001). The acceptance of the modality among professionals was 75.4% and the perception of its convenience (aOR 16.8; 95%CI 2.6­108.4; p=0.003) and that the institution has appropriated conditions (aOR 7.7; 95%CI 1.5­40.6; p=0.016) were associated with increased odds of accepting its incorporation in their routine. Conclusion: Governance should invest in infrastructure and support, secure protocols, digital literacy, and training of its users and employees for video teleconsultation. (AU)

Introdução: A telemedicina foi alavancada por sua contribuição para mitigar o impacto da COVID-19 no Brasil e no mundo. Objetivo: Pretendemos avaliar a aceitabilidade da incorporação da teleconsulta por videoconferência síncrona por usuários e profissionais de um serviço especializado na prevenção e tratamento da infecção pelo vírus da imunodeficiência humana (HIV) e outras infecções sexualmente transmissíveis, bem como identificar fatores associados. Métodos: Estudo transversal com 410 usuários e 57 profissionais, que responderam a um questionário padronizado por categoria. Os preditores de aceitabilidade foram avaliados utilizando-se um modelo de regressão logística. Resultados: O total de 364 (88,8%) usuários disseram que aceitariam a modalidade. Os fatores positivamente associados à probabilidade de aceitação foram a autoavaliação quanto a ter condições favoráveis para participar de uma teleconsulta (razão de chances ajustada ­ aOR 54,8; intervalo de confiança de 95% ­ IC95% 12,4­242,1; p<0,001), a percepção de poupar dinheiro (aOR 5,2; IC95% 1,9­14,0; p=0,001) e a percepção de conveniência da modalidade (aOR 6,7; IC95% 2,9­15,9; p<0,001). As menores probabilidades de aceitação foram o medo de não ser bem avaliado (aOR 0,2; IC95% 0,1­0,4; p<0,001) e de permanecer muito tempo sem ver o profissional (aOR 0,2; IC95% 0,1­0,5; p<0,001). A aceitação da modalidade pelos profissionais foi de 75,4% e a percepção de sua conveniência (aOR 16,8; IC95% 2,6­108,4; p=0,003) e a de que a instituição possui condições favoráveis (aOR 7,7; IC95% 1,5­40,6; p=0,016) foram associadas com a maior probabilidade de aceitar a incorporação da modalidade em sua rotina. Conclusão: A governança deve investir em infraestrutura e apoio, protocolos seguros, literacia digital e treinamento de seus usuários e funcionários para a videoconsulta. (AU)

Subnotificação de desfechos desfavoráveis da sífilis congênita no Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação no estado de São Paulo, 2007-2018 / Underreporting of unfavorable outcomes of congenital syphilis on the Notifiable Health Conditions Information System in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, 2007-2018 / Subnotificación de resultados desfavorables de sífilis congénita en el Sistema de Información de Enfermedades de Declaración Obligatoria en el estado de São Paulo, Brasil, 2007-2018

Objetivo: descrever a frequência de subnotificação de desfechos desfavoráveis da sífilis congênita no estado de São Paulo, Brasil, 2007-2018. Métodos: estudo descritivo dos casos de aborto, óbitos fetais e não fetais por sífilis congênita notificados no Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação (Sinan), e daqueles registrados com sífilis congênita, em qualquer linha da Declaração de Óbito, no Sistema de Informações sobre Mortalidade (SIM), mediante relacionamentos probabilístico e determinístico. Resultados: dos 27.713 casos de sífilis congênita notificados, 1.320 evoluíram para óbito (871 fetais, 449 infantis) e foram pareados com o SIM; 355 óbitos (259 fetais, 96 infantis) não constavam no Sinan; ocorreu incremento de desfechos desfavoráveis, de 11,4% para óbitos infantis por sífilis congênita, 3,0% para óbitos fetais e 1,9% para abortos. Conclusão: o emprego de diferentes técnicas de relacionamento mostrou-se adequado para identificar a frequência da subnotificação dos desfechos desfavoráveis da sífilis congênita no estado de São Paulo.

Objective: to describe the frequency of underreporting of unfavorable outcomes of congenital syphilis in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, 2007-2018. Methods: this was a descriptive study of cases of abortion, fetal and non-fetal deaths due to congenital syphilis reported on the Notifiable Health Conditions Information System (Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação - SINAN), and those of congenital syphilis registered in any line in the Death Certificate, on the Mortality Information System (Sistema de Informações sobre Mortalidade - SIM), by means of probabilistic and deterministic linkage. Results: of the 27,713 cases of congenital syphilis reported, 1,320 progressed to death (871 fetal deaths, 449 infant deaths) and were matched to the SIM; 355 deaths (259 fetal deaths, 96 infant deaths) were not included on SINAN; there was an increase in unfavorable outcomes,11.4% for infant deaths due to congenital syphilis, 3.0% for fetal deaths and 1.9% for abortions. Conclusion: the use of different relationship techniques proved to be adequate to identify the frequency of underreporting of unfavorable outcomes of congenital syphilis in the state of São Paulo.

Objetivo: describir la frecuencia de la subnotificación de resultados desfavorables por sífilis congénita en el estado de São Paulo, de 2007 a 2018. Métodos: estudio descriptivo de los casos de aborto espontáneo, muertes fetales y no fetales por sífilis congénita notificados en la Información Sistema de Enfermedades de Declaración Obligatoria (Sinan), y las registradas con sífilis congénita en el Sistema de Información de Mortalidad (SIM) mediante relaciones probabilísticas y determinísticas. Resultados: de los 27.713 casos de sífilis congénita, fallecieron 1.320 (871 fetales, 449 infantiles) y se emparejaron con SIM; 355 muertes (259 fetales, 96 infantiles) no se incluyeron en Sinan. Hubo un aumento en los resultados desfavorables: 11,4% muertes infantiles por sífilis congénita; 3,0% muertes fetales y 1,9% abortos. Conclusión: el uso de diferentes técnicas de vinculación demostró ser adecuado para identificar la frecuencia de subregistro de resultados desfavorables de sífilis congénita en el estado de São Paulo.

Prevalence of Kaposi's sarcoma in patients with AIDS and associated factors, São Paulo-SP, Brazil, 2003-2010. / Prevalência de sarcoma de Kaposi em pacientes com aids e fatores associados, São Paulo-SP, 2003-2010.

OBJECTIVE: to estimate the prevalence of Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) in patients with AIDS and identify the associated factors to the occurrence of this neoplasm. METHODS: this is a cross-sectional study with notification data from two AIDS reference centers in São Paulo-SP, Brazil, from January, 2003 to March, 2010; probabilistic linkage and multiple logistic regression methods were applied. RESULTS: among 3,557 AIDS cases, 213 (6%) presented KS; 95.3% of them occurred in males; male sex (OR=3.1; 95%CI=1.4;6.6), age at the AIDS diagnosis >28 years old (OR=1.6; 95%CI=1.0;2.6), MSM (OR=3.2; 95%CI=2.0;4.9), prior use of HAART (OR=0.4; 95%CI=0.3;0.5), AIDS diagnosis between 2007-2010 (OR=0.3; 95%CI=0.2;0.4), and CD4+ T-cell counting under 200cells/mm3 (OR=16.0; 95%CI=6.0;42.7) and 200-500cells/mm³ (OR=2,5; 95%CI=1.1;6.4) were associated to the occurrence of KS. CONCLUSION: KS has a high prevalence in São Paulo-SP; strategies for early HIV diagnosis may reduce this prevalence.

Prevalence and factors associated with Chlamydia trachomatis infection among women with HIV in São Paulo.

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to estimate the prevalence and risk factors associated with Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) infection among women with HIV in São Paulo. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included women with HIV who were receiving care from sixteen public health services in São Paulo (October 2013 to March 2014). All participants answered a questionnaire regarding their sociodemographic, behavioral, and clinical characteristics. A urine sample was tested for CT and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) using the polymerase chain reaction. The chi-square test and a logistic regression model were used to test the associations with CT or NG infections. RESULTS: We evaluated 853 women and ultimately included 836 (98%) women. The mean age was 40.5 ± 0.34 years, and the prevalences of CT and NG infections were 1.8% and 0.5%, respectively. CT infection was associated with CD4+ T-cell counts of <350 cells/mm3 [adjusted odds ratio (ORadj): 24.5], age of 18-25 years (ORadj: 23.2), the non-use of condoms during the last 6 months (ORadj: 10.2), a self-reported history of a sexually transmitted infection (ORadj: 9.4), and having two or more sexual partners during the last year (ORadj: 6.1). CONCLUSIONS: Although we observed a low prevalence of CT infection among women with HIV, younger age was associated with a high risk of infection. Therefore, it may be appropriate to include screening for CT as part of the routine care for this population.

Sexually transmitted disease/HIV risk behaviour among women who have sex with women.

OBJECTIVE: To analyse the epidemiological aspects of sexually transmitted diseases (STD) among women who have sex with women (WSW) in São Paulo, Brazil. METHOD: A cross-sectional study with interviews and analysis of clinical and gynaecological tests in women, by means of a convenience sample. Characteristics were gathered according to age, sociobehavioural profile, reproductive life and sexuality. RESULTS: The study included 145 women. They started sexual activity at an average age of 16.9 years, and 23.4% of them had had heterosexual relations during the preceding year, with a relatively low frequency of condom use. In sexual relations with women, 54.5% used condoms when they shared sex toys. A previous STD was reported by 38% of them. The following STD were diagnosed: trichomonas (3.8%), bacterial vaginosis (33.8%), fungi (25.6%), Chlamydia (1.8%), hepatitis B (7%), hepatitis C (2.1%), abnormal Pap smear (7.7%), human papillomavirus (6.2%) and HIV (2.9%). CONCLUSION: In this study, many WSW did not report a single risk behaviour, but often reported a combination of several potential risk factors. Therefore, one cannot speak of high or low-risk behaviour for STD/HIV, but rather of multiple-risk behaviour. It is evident that there is a need for healthcare professionals to be correctly informed and sensitive towards the healthcare of WSW.

Coinfecção tuberculose/HIV: perfil sociodemográfico e saúde de usuários de um centro especializado / Coinfección tuberculosis/VIH: perfil sociodemográfico y salud de usuarios de un centro especializado / Tuberculosis/HIV co-infection: sociodemographic and health profile of users of a specialized center

Resumo Objetivo Descrever algumas características sociodemográficas e de saúde de pessoas que apresentaram a coinfecção tuberculose e vírus da imunodeficiência humana notificada em um centro especializado do município de São Paulo. Métodos Estudo descritivo de casos de coinfecção tuberculose/HIV notificados em um Centro de Referência e Treinamento de Doenças Sexualmente Transmissíveis e Aids do município de São Paulo, entre 2007 e 2016. A fonte de informações foi o Sistema de Notificação e Acompanhamento dos Casos de Tuberculose - TBWEB. Resultados Foram notificados 745 casos de coinfecção, 76,6% eram do sexo masculino, 67,8% encontravam-se na faixa etária de 30 a 49 anos e 62,6% possuíam oito anos ou mais de escolaridade. Em relação ao desfecho do tratamento da tuberculose, 46,3% dos casos evoluíram para cura e 13,3% foram a óbito. Ao comparar os períodos de notificação de 2007-2011 e 2012-2016, pôde-se observar que ocorreu uma redução percentual de 43,0% no número de casos notificados e 76,6% na frequência de evolução para óbito. Conclusão O conhecimento da situação epidemiológica da coinfecção tuberculose/HIV possibilita fornecer subsídios para repensar as atividades do cuidado em saúde e para o aprimoramento de políticas públicas.

Resumen Objetivo Describir algunas características sociodemográficas y de salud de personas que presentaron la coinfección tuberculosis y virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana notificada en un centro especializado del municipio de São Paulo. Métodos Estudio descriptivo de casos de coinfección tuberculosis/VIH notificados en un Centro de Referencia y Capacitación de Enfermedades de Transmisión Sexual y SIDA del municipio de São Paulo, entre 2007 y 2016. La fuente de información fue el Sistema de Notificación y Seguimiento de Casos de Tuberculosis (TBWEB). Resultados Se notificaron 745 casos de coinfección, el 76,6 % del sexo masculino, el 67,8 % del grupo de edad de 30 a 49 años y el 62,6 % con ocho o más años de escolaridad. Con relación al resultado del tratamiento de la tuberculosis, el 46,3 % de los casos se recuperó y el 13,9 % falleció. Al comparar los períodos de notificación 2007-2011 y 2012-2016, puede observarse que se redujo un 43,0 % la cantidad de casos notificados y un 76,6 % la frecuencia de muerte. Conclusión El conocimiento sobre la situación epidemiológica de la coinfección tuberculosis/VIH permite proporcionar subsidios para repensar las actividades de cuidado de la salud y para la mejora de políticas públicas.

Abstract Objective To describe some sociodemographic features and health of individuals who present tuberculosis, and HIV co-infection of a specialized center located in the municipality of Sao Paulo. Methods This was a descriptive study of tuberculosis/HIV co-infection reported in a referral and training center of sexual transmissible diseases and AIDS in the municipality of Sao Paulo, conducted between 2007 and 2016. The source of information was a notification system and follow-up of tuberculosis cases. Results We notified 745 cases of co-infection, 76.6% were men, 67.8% were aged between 30 to 49 years, and 62.6% had 8 years or more of formal education. In relation to end of treatment of tuberculosis, 46.3% of cases evolved cure and 13.3% were death. The comparison of periods of notification from 2007-2011 and 2012-2016 can be observed by the occurrence of percentage reduction of 43.0% in the number of reported cases, and 76.6% in frequency of evolution of death. Conclusion The knowledge of the epidemiological situation of tuberculosis/HIV co-infection enables the provision of subsides to rethink the activities of health care and to enhance public policies.

Predictors of progression to AIDS after HIV infection diagnosis in the pre- and post-HAART eras in a Brazilian AIDS-free cohort.

BACKGROUND: The impact of HAART (highly active antiretroviral therapy) on the time for progression from HIV diagnosis to AIDS (TPHA) has been little studied in middle-income countries. This study aimed to analyze the TPHA in the pre- and post-HAART eras and to investigate its predictors. METHOD: We carried out a retrospective cohort study, including 1879 AIDS-free HIV-infected individuals diagnosed between 1988 and 2003 and followed up until 2005. The incidences of AIDS were estimated in person-years. The Kaplan-Meier method was applied to estimate TPHA and the Cox proportional hazard model used to assess predictors of TPHA. RESULTS: AIDS incidence decreased from 12.8 to 5.0 per 1000 person-years over the period 1992 to 2003. TPHA (cumulative probability of AIDS-free time) for the maximum follow-up of 9 years was 21.9% among untreated individuals and 76.8% among those on HAART. Predictors of shorter TPHA included non-HAARTART treatment; no treatment; age ≥50 years; black/brown skin color; injection drug use; no schooling; and baseline CD4 lower than 500 cells/mm3. CONCLUSION: HAART has decreased AIDS incidence, prolonged life and increased the number of people living with HIV/AIDS. The post-HAART era presents new challenges to healthcare services in middle-income countries, the main requirements being enhanced strategies focused on early diagnosis, more resource allocation and developing approaches for healthcare systems to manage AIDS as a chronic disease.

History of syphilis in women living with AIDS and associated risk factors in São Paulo, Brazil.

OBJECTIVE: to describe the epidemiological profile, risk behaviors, frequency of prior history of syphilis in women living with AIDS and to investigate associated factors. METHODS: a cross-sectional study conducted with women living with HIV attending at Reference Center for AIDS in São Paulo. Demographic, behavioral, and clinical data were analyzed based on medical records. RESULTS: a total of 598 women were included in the study and the prevalence of previous syphilis was 6.2% (95% CI 4,3-8,1). Seventy-three percent of women were less than 40 years of age when diagnosed with AIDS and 49.6% had more than eight years of formal education. 67.2% were white and 65.9% were not married or living with a partner, 53.2% reported that their first sexual intercourse aged more than 15 years, 56.5% reported having only one partner in the last year and 13% reported drug use. Regarding laboratory data, 83.8% had CD4+ <500 cells/ mm3 upon diagnosis of AIDS. Previous syphilis was associated with the use of crack cocaine [AOR = 6.8 (95% CI 1.7 - 27.5)], >1 sexual partner in the last year [AOR = 6.6 (95% CI 1.2 - 37.1)], CD4 + <500 cells/mm3 [AOR = 3.8 (women 1.1 - 13.6)], HIV diagnosis > 8 years [AOR = 2.4 (95% CI 1.0 - 5.8)]. CONCLUSION: a high prevalence of previous syphilis was found in the population studied, and crack use was identified among the main associated risk factors. Interventions to reduce the risk of sexual transmission of HIV and syphilis must be strengthened, with the implementation of control actions, screening strategies, early diagnosis and treatment, preventing complications, reducing morbidity and improving sexual and reproductive health.

Prevalence of syphilis and associated factors in homeless people of Sao Paulo, Brazil, using a Rapid Test.

INTRODUCTION: Homeless people are a vulnerable group to sexually transmitted diseases (STD) with high prevalence of syphilis and hepatitis. OBJECTIVES: To estimate the prevalence of syphilis infection and its association with risky behaviors for STDs in a sample of homeless people, and to assess the feasibility of the use of rapid syphilis test (RST) in this population. METHODS: Cross-sectional study, in a convenience sample of homeless people assisted in social support services of São Paulo, between 2006 and 2007. A structured questionnaire was applied and RST was performed. In addition, a blood sample for syphilis detection was also collected. The sensitivity and specificity of the RST was estimated using conventional laboratory diagnosis (VDRL + TPHA) as reference. RESULTS: 1,405 volunteers were included in the study. The prevalence rate of syphilis was 7.0%, and was associated with homosexual practices (OR(adj) 4.9; 95%CI 2.6 - 9.4), prior history of STD (OR(adj) 2.6; 95%CI 1.7 - 4.0) and with self-referred non-white race (OR(adj) 1.9; 95%CI 1.1 - 3.4). The sensitivity and specificity of the RST for syphilis were, respectively, 81.4 and 92.1%. CONCLUSION: The high prevalence of syphilis infection among homeless people shows the need for actions for its control and the utilization of RST that can be considered an efficient strategy due to its sensitivity and specificity. Public Health policymakers must strengthen actions for syphilis control, with screening tests for syphilis and early treatment, decreasing morbidity with the improvement of sexual and reproductive health of the population in general and especially the most vulnerable.

Prior history of sexually transmitted diseases in women living with AIDS in São Paulo, Brazil.

OBJECTIVES: To describe the epidemiological profile, risk behaviors, and the prior history of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in women living with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). METHODS: Cross-sectional study, performed at the Centro de Referência e Treinamento em DST/AIDS of São Paulo. The social, demographic, behavioral, and clinical data such as age, schooling, marital status, age at first sexual intercourse, number of sexual partners, parity, use of drugs, time of HIV diagnosis, CD4 count, and viral load determination were abstracted from the medical records of women living with AIDS who had gynecological consultation scheduled in the period from June 2008 to May 2009. RESULTS: Out of 710 women who were scheduled to a gynecological consultation during the period of the study, 598 were included. Previous STD was documented for 364 (60.9%; 95% CI: 56.9%-64.8%) women. The associated factors with previous STDs and their respective risks were: human development index (HDI) < 0.50 (ORaj = 5.5; 95% CI: 2.8-11.0); non-white race (ORaj = 5.2; 95% CI: 2.5-11.0); first sexual intercourse at or before 15 years of age (ORaj = 4.4; 95% CI: 2.3-8.3); HIV infection follow-up time of nine years or more (ORaj = 4.2; 95% CI: 2.3-7.8)]; number of sexual partners during the entire life between three and five partners (ORaj = 2.2; 95% CI: 1.1-4.6), and six or more sexual partners (ORaj = 3.9; 95% CI: 1.9-8.0%); being a sex worker (ORaj = 1.9; 95% CI: 1.1-3.1). CONCLUSIONS: A high prevalence of a prior history of STDs in the studied population was found. It is essential to find better ways to access HIV infection prevention, so that effective interventions can be more widely implemented.

Prevalência de sarcoma de Kaposi em pacientes com aids e fatores associados, São Paulo-SP, 2003-2010 / Prevalencia de sarcoma de Kaposi en pacientes con SIDA y factores asociados, São Paulo-SP, Brasil, 2003-2010 / Prevalence of Kaposi's sarcoma in patients with AIDS and associated factors, São Paulo-SP, Brazil, 2003-2010

OBJETIVO: estimar a prevalência de sarcoma de Kaposi (SK) em pacientes com aids e identificar os fatores associados à ocorrência da neoplasia. MÉTODOS: estudo transversal com dados de notificação em dois centros de referência em aids de São Paulo-SP, Brasil, de janeiro/2003 a março/2010; empregaram-se métodos de linkage probabilístico e regressão logística múltipla. RESULTADOS: entre 3.557 casos de aids, 213 (6%) apresentavam SK, 95,3% deles do sexo masculino; associaram-se à ocorrência de SK sexo masculino (OR=3,1; IC95%=1,4;6,6), idade no momento do diagnóstico de aids >28 anos (OR=1,6; IC95%=1,0; 2,6), homens que fazem sexo com homens (OR=3,2; IC95%=2,0;4,9), uso prévio de terapia antirretroviral de alta atividade (HAART) (OR=0,4; IC95%=0,3;0,5), período de diagnóstico de aids de 2007-2010 (OR=0,3; IC95%=0,2;0,4) e contagem de linfócitos T CD4+ <200cel/mm³ (OR=16,0; IC95%=6,0;42,7) e 200-500cel/mm³ (OR=2,5; IC95%=1,1;6,4). CONCLUSÃO: o SK tem alta prevalência em São Paulo-SP; estratégias para o diagnóstico precoce do HIV podem resultar em diminuição desta prevalência.

OBJETIVO: estimar la prevalencia del sarcoma de Kaposi (SK) en pacientes con SIDA e identificar los factores asociados. MÉTODOS: estudio transversal para identificar la asociación entre el SK y SIDA en São Paulo-SP, Brasil; los datos se obtuvieron entre enero de 2003 y marzo de 2010 y se analizaron con el método de linkage probabilística y regresión logística múltipla. RESULTADOS: en 3.557 casos de SIDA, la prevalencia de SK fue 6%; entre los 213 casos de SK, el 95,3% eran varones; estuvieron asociados con SK el sexo masculino (OR=3,1; IC95%=1,4;6,6), la edad >28 años (OR=1,6; IC95%=1,01;2,5 2,6), HSH (OR=3,2; IC95%= 2,0;4,9), el uso previo de HAART (OR=0,4; IC95%=0,3;0,5), diagnóstico de SIDA en 2007-2010 (OR=0,3 IC95%=0,2;0,4) y células T CD4+ <200cel/mm3 (OR=16,0; IC95%=6,0;42,7) y 200-500cel/mm³ (OR=2,5 IC95%=1,1;6,4). CONCLUSIÓN: el SK tiene una alta prevalencia en São Paulo-SP; las estrategias para el diagnóstico precoz del VIH pueden reducirlo.

OBJECTIVE: to estimate the prevalence of Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) in patients with AIDS and identify the associated factors to the occurrence of this neoplasm. METHODS: this is a cross-sectional study with notification data from two AIDS reference centers in São Paulo-SP, Brazil, from January, 2003 to March, 2010; probabilistic linkage and multiple logistic regression methods were applied. RESULTS: among 3,557 AIDS cases, 213 (6%) presented KS; 95.3% of them occurred in males; male sex (OR=3.1; 95%CI=1.4;6.6), age at the AIDS diagnosis >28 years old (OR=1.6; 95%CI=1.0;2.6), MSM (OR=3.2; 95%CI=2.0;4.9), prior use of HAART (OR=0.4; 95%CI=0.3;0.5), AIDS diagnosis between 2007-2010 (OR=0.3; 95%CI=0.2;0.4), and CD4+ T-cell counting under 200cells/mm3 (OR=16.0; 95%CI=6.0;42.7) and 200-500cells/mm³ (OR=2,5; 95%CI=1.1;6.4) were associated to the occurrence of KS. CONCLUSION: KS has a high prevalence in São Paulo-SP; strategies for early HIV diagnosis may reduce this prevalence.

Cervical cytology and histopathologic abnormalities in women living with AIDS in São Paulo, Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Women living with HIV/AIDS present with a higher prevalence of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, higher rates of squamous intraepithelial lesions, and are more susceptible to invasive cervical carcinoma progression. OBJECTIVE: We assessed the frequency of precursory cervical lesions of cancer and its risk factors for women living with HIV/AIDS. METHODS: Sociodemographic, clinical, behavioral, and laboratory data were collected from medical records from 2008 to 2009 and analyzed using forward stepwise logistic regression. RESULTS: Medical records of 631 women were reviewed; mean age at AIDS diagnosis was 34 years old (interquartile range = 29-40 years old), 32% were <16 years old at first sexual intercourse; 61% had ≤5 sexual partners during life; 43% had been living with AIDS for ≥9 years; 47% reported previous sexually transmitted infections; 44% presented with HPV infection; and 10% presented with high squamous intraepithelial lesions. Presenting high squamous intraepithelial lesions was significantly associated with home district Human Development Index, age at AIDS diagnosis (>40 years old), time of AIDS diagnosis (>8 years), CD4 cell count <350/mm, and HPV infection. CONCLUSIONS: Frequent squamous intraepithelial neoplasia in these women shows the importance of gynecologic examinations in routine care and follow-up required by those who present with cervical lesions.

Prevalence and factors associated with Chlamydia trachomatis infection among women with HIV in São Paulo

Abstract: INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to estimate the prevalence and risk factors associated with Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) infection among women with HIV in São Paulo. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included women with HIV who were receiving care from sixteen public health services in São Paulo (October 2013 to March 2014). All participants answered a questionnaire regarding their sociodemographic, behavioral, and clinical characteristics. A urine sample was tested for CT and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) using the polymerase chain reaction. The chi-square test and a logistic regression model were used to test the associations with CT or NG infections. RESULTS: We evaluated 853 women and ultimately included 836 (98%) women. The mean age was 40.5 ± 0.34 years, and the prevalences of CT and NG infections were 1.8% and 0.5%, respectively. CT infection was associated with CD4+ T-cell counts of <350 cells/mm3 [adjusted odds ratio (ORadj): 24.5], age of 18-25 years (ORadj: 23.2), the non-use of condoms during the last 6 months (ORadj: 10.2), a self-reported history of a sexually transmitted infection (ORadj: 9.4), and having two or more sexual partners during the last year (ORadj: 6.1). CONCLUSIONS: Although we observed a low prevalence of CT infection among women with HIV, younger age was associated with a high risk of infection. Therefore, it may be appropriate to include screening for CT as part of the routine care for this population.