Redefining the treponemal history through pre-Columbian genomes from Brazil.

The origins of treponemal diseases have long remained unknown, especially considering the sudden onset of the first syphilis epidemic in the late 15th century in Europe and its hypothesized arrival from the Americas with Columbus' expeditions1,2. Recently, ancient DNA evidence has revealed various treponemal infections circulating in early modern Europe and colonial-era Mexico3-6. However, there has been to our knowledge no genomic evidence of treponematosis recovered from either the Americas or the Old World that can be reliably dated to the time before the first trans-Atlantic contacts. Here, we present treponemal genomes from nearly 2,000-year-old human remains from Brazil. We reconstruct four ancient genomes of a prehistoric treponemal pathogen, most closely related to the bejel-causing agent Treponema pallidum endemicum. Contradicting the modern day geographical niche of bejel in the arid regions of the world, the results call into question the previous palaeopathological characterization of treponeme subspecies and showcase their adaptive potential. A high-coverage genome is used to improve molecular clock date estimations, placing the divergence of modern T. pallidum subspecies firmly in pre-Columbian times. Overall, our study demonstrates the opportunities within archaeogenetics to uncover key events in pathogen evolution and emergence, paving the way to new hypotheses on the origin and spread of treponematoses.

Subnational certification of elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV and/or syphilis: a Brazilian experience report.

OBJECTIVE: to describe the subnational implementation process of the certification for elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV and/or syphilis, its main barriers, challenges and opportunities. METHODS: in 2022, indicators from the last full year for impact targets and the last two full years for process targets, available in national information systems, were evaluated; descriptive reports were analyzed and actions were acknowledged within four thematic axes, according to PAHO/WHO recommendations. RESULTS: 43 municipalities ≥ 100,000 inhabitants were certified, covering 24.6 million inhabitants; one municipality achieved dual elimination (HIV-syphilis), 28 municipalities achieved elimination of HIV and 10 received silver tiers; regarding syphilis, one elimination was observed, along with 4 gold tiers, 13 silver tiers and 4 bronze tiers; a higher number of certifications was identified in the Southeast and South regions. CONCLUSION: barriers and challenges of the process were overcome through tripartite collaboration; the experience provided better integration of surveillance with care and improved actions aimed at preventing mother-to-child transmission. MAIN RESULTS: First experience of the sub-national process of certification of elimination of mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV and/or syphilis at a global level. In 2022, 43 municipalities ≥ 100,000 inhabitants were certified, covering 24.6 million inhabitants. IMPLICATIONS FOR SERVICES: The experience of sub-national certification of the EMTCT was important in mobilizing the municipalities that engaged in its initiatives, worked to improve the quality of care and surveillance and emerging as the main proponents in the process. PERSPECTIVES: Through this ongoing and dynamic initiative, there is an anticipation of over 100 municipalities and states joining in 2023. Sub-national certification aims to enhance comprehensive care for pregnant women, in order to achieve national certification of EMTCT.

Rebound in sexually transmitted infections after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have become the second in the global rating of infectious diseases after respiratory infections. Globally, over 1 million, new STI is diagnosed every day. Although four conditions are the most representative and of obligatory declaration (gonorrhea, syphilis, chlamydia, and human immunodeficiency virus [HIV]), there are many other prevalent STI, including trichomona, herpes simplex, papillomavirus, and viral hepatitis. Herein, we perform a narrative and retrospective review, analyzing information from public databases from distinct Spanish government institutions. STI significantly declined in Spain during 2020 as a result of lockdown and social isolation measures dictated in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. After releasing restrictions, a major STI rebound occurred in 2021. Increases were 49% for gonorrhea, 45% for HIV, 39% for chlamydia, and 32% for syphilis. Based on nationwide statistics, we build a narrative review of the recent STI surge after COVID-19. In summary, we propose a holistic approach to confront the current re-emergence of STI. On one hand, new innovative medical advances must be implemented, including new rapid tests, novel vaccines, pre-exposure prophylaxis beyond HIV, and long-acting antivirals. On the other hand, information to citizens needs to be reformulated with interventions aimed to build a healthier society, alike it has been undertaken with tobacco, alcohol, diet, and lifestyle. STI determines important sexual, reproductive, and maternal-child health consequences. To promote human well-being or flourishing, the education of adolescents and young adults should be aligned with human ecology. Therefore, it is urgent to address new approaches in sexual health that represent a clear benefit for individual persons and society. In this way, favoring a cultural evolution aimed to delay the age of first sexual intercourse and the avoidance of multiple sex partners should be prioritized.

Syphilis in Dermatology: Recognition and Management.

The incidence of syphilis has been increasing in the USA since 2000. Notably, the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic negatively impacted the public health efforts to contain the spread of sexually transmitted diseases including syphilis and congenital syphilis. Clinical manifestations of syphilis are predominantly mucocutaneous lesions, thus dermatologists are primed to recognize the myriad presentations of this disease. Primary syphilis is classically characterized by a painless transient chancre most often located in the genital area. Secondary syphilis typically manifests clinically as systemic symptoms in addition to a mucocutaneous eruption of which a variety of forms exist. Although less common in the era of effective penicillin treatment, late clinical manifestations of syphilis are described as well. In addition to recognition of syphilis on physical examination, several diagnostic tools may be used to confirm infection. Treponema pallidum spirochetes may be detected directly using histopathologic staining, darkfield microscopy, direct fluorescent antibody, and polymerase chain reaction assays. A table detailing the histopathologic features of syphilis is included in this article. Serologic testing, non-treponemal and treponemal tests, is the preferred method for screening and diagnosing syphilis infections. Two serologic testing algorithms exist to aid clinicians in diagnosing positive syphilis infection. Determining the correct stage of syphilis infection combines results of serologic tests, patient history, and physical examination findings. Using the current Centers for Disease Control and Prevention case definitions and treatment guidelines, a management algorithm is proposed here. Penicillin remains the pharmacological treatment of choice although specific clinical situations allow for alternative therapies. Syphilis is a reportable disease in every state and should be reported by stage according to individual state requirements. Screening recommendations are largely based upon risks encountered through sexual exposures. Likewise, sexual partner management includes evaluating and treating persons exposed to someone diagnosed with an infective stage of syphilis. Close clinical follow-up and repeat testing are recommended to ensure appropriate response to treatment. This guide will discuss the current epidemiology of syphilis and focus on practice aspects of diagnosis and management, including public health reporting.

Ancient and modern pathologies and therapies: St. Gallicanus Hospital in Rome between the 18th and 20th centuries.

St. Gallicanus Hospital in Rome, Italy, created by the will of Pope Benedict XIII (1649-1730) in 1725, was the first dermatologic hospital in the world. The strong bond between science and faith, humanitarian spirit and scientific research, and the profoundness and legacy of its entire history have all contributed to its legacy. We have traced its development by examining archival documents to understand the life of the institute and the diseases that were diagnosed and treated from the 18th century to the first half of the 20th century. Some of the main diseases were leprosy, mange, scabies, ringworm, and syphilis, which were widespread in Rome during the 18th and 19th centuries and were creating a mortal threat for much of the population. St. Gallicanus Hospital was dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of these diseases where possible. Special attention has been directed to syphilis and the use of penicillin therapy after its introduction in 1943, especially for curbing the extensive problems created by prostitution.

Eliminating mother-to-child transmission of human immunodeficiency virus, syphilis and hepatitis B in sub-Saharan Africa.

Triple elimination is an initiative supporting the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of three diseases - human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, syphilis and hepatitis B. Significant progress towards triple elimination has been made in some regions, but progress has been slow in sub-Saharan Africa, the region with the highest burden of these diseases. The shared features of the three diseases, including their epidemiology, disease interactions and core interventions for tackling them, enable an integrated health-systems approach for elimination of mother-to-child transmission. Current barriers to triple elimination in sub-Saharan Africa include a lack of policies, strategies and resources to support the uptake of well established preventive and treatment interventions. While much can be achieved with existing tools, the development of new products and models of care, as well as a prioritized research agenda, are needed to accelerate progress on triple elimination in sub-Saharan Africa. In this paper we aim to show that health systems working together with communities in sub-Saharan Africa could deliver rapid and sustainable results towards the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of all three diseases. However, stronger political support, expansion of evidence-based interventions and better use of funding streams are needed to improve efficiency and build on the successes in prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV. Triple elimination is a strategic opportunity to reduce the morbidity and mortality from HIV infection, syphilis and hepatitis B for mothers and their infants within the context of universal health coverage.

La triple élimination est une initiative visant à soutenir l'éradication de la transmission mère-enfant de trois maladies ­ l'infection au virus de l'immunodéficience humaine (VIH), la syphilis et l'hépatite B. Bien que des avancées considérables aient été observées en ce sens dans certaines régions, les progrès demeurent lents en Afrique subsaharienne, pourtant durement touchée par ces maladies. Les caractéristiques communes aux trois affections, notamment leur épidémiologie, les interactions entre elles et les principales interventions nécessaires à leur prise en charge permettent aux systèmes de santé d'adopter une approche intégrée pour éviter la transmission mère-enfant. Plusieurs obstacles entravent actuellement la triple élimination en Afrique subsaharienne, parmi lesquels l'absence de politiques, de stratégies et de ressources pour garantir la disponibilité de traitements préventifs et curatifs bien établis. Les outils existants offrent déjà de nombreuses solutions; mais pour accélérer la progression de cette triple élimination en Afrique subsaharienne, il est indispensable de développer de nouveaux produits et modèles de soins, ainsi qu'un programme de recherche prioritaire. Dans le présent document, nous voulons montrer que si les systèmes de santé collaborent avec les communautés en Afrique subsaharienne, ils pourront obtenir des résultats rapides et durables en vue d'éradiquer la transmission mère-enfant des trois maladies susmentionnées. Néanmoins, une telle démarche implique un soutien politique massif, l'expansion des interventions fondées sur des données scientifiques, et une meilleure utilisation des sources de financement afin d'améliorer l'efficacité et de s'appuyer sur les réussites en matière de prévention de la transmission du VIH de la mère à l'enfant. La triple élimination représente une occasion stratégique de réduire la morbidité et la mortalité liées à l'infection au VIH, à la syphilis et à l'hépatite B, tant chez les mères que chez les nourrissons, dans un contexte de couverture maladie universelle.

La triple eliminación es una iniciativa que apoya la eliminación de la transmisión maternoinfantil de tres enfermedades: la infección por el virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana (VIH), la sífilis y la hepatitis B. En algunas regiones se han logrado avances significativos hacia la triple eliminación, pero los progresos se han desarrollado con mayor lentitud en el África subsahariana, la región con la mayor carga de estas enfermedades. Las características comunes de las tres enfermedades, como su epidemiología, las interacciones entre ellas y las intervenciones básicas para combatirlas, permiten un enfoque integrado de los sistemas de salud para la eliminación de la transmisión maternoinfantil. Los obstáculos actuales para la triple eliminación en el África subsahariana incluyen la falta de políticas, estrategias y recursos para apoyar la adopción de intervenciones preventivas y de tratamiento bien establecidas. Aunque se puede lograr mucho con las herramientas existentes, se necesita el desarrollo de nuevos productos y modelos de atención, así como una agenda de investigación prioritaria, para acelerar el progreso de la triple eliminación en el África subsahariana. En este documento pretendemos demostrar que los sistemas de salud que trabajan conjuntamente con las comunidades del África subsahariana podrían obtener resultados rápidos y sostenibles hacia la eliminación de la transmisión maternoinfantil de las tres enfermedades. Sin embargo, se necesita un mayor apoyo político, la ampliación de las intervenciones basadas en la evidencia y un mejor uso de los flujos de financiación para mejorar la eficiencia y aprovechar los éxitos en la prevención de la transmisión maternoinfantil del VIH. La triple eliminación es una oportunidad estratégica para reducir la morbilidad y la mortalidad de la infección por el VIH, la sífilis y la hepatitis B para las madres y sus hijos en el contexto de la cobertura sanitaria universal.

Brazilian Protocol for Sexually Transmitted Infections 2020: epidemiological surveillance.

This article summarizes the chapter on epidemiological surveillance of sexually transmitted infections (STI) that comprises the 2020 Clinical Protocol and Therapeutic Guidelines (PCDT) for Comprehensive Care for People with STI, published by the Health Surveillance Department of the Brazilian Ministry of Health. It presents some reflections on the new case definitions for surveillance of acquired syphilis, syphilis in pregnant women, and congenital syphilis. The 2020 PCDT-IST was elaborated grounded on scientific evidence and validated in discussions with specialists. Epidemiological and clinical aspects are addressed, and health service managers' guidelines regarding programmatic and operational management of these diseases are presented. Guidelines for health professionals on screening, diagnosing, and treating people with STI and their sex partners, in addition to strategies for surveillance, prevention, and control actions, are also published. sexually transmitted infections are among the most common diseases in the world. They affect people's health and life, impact reproductive and child health, contribute to infertility and complications during pregnancy and birth.

Brazilian Protocol for Sexually Transmitted Infections, 2020: congenital syphilis and child exposed to syphilis.

The topics of congenital syphilis and children exposed to syphilis compose the Clinical Protocol and Therapeutic Guidelines for Comprehensive Care for People with Sexually Transmitted Infections, published by the Brazilian Ministry of Health in 2020. Such document was elaborated based on scientific evidence and validated in discussions with specialists. This article provides guidelines for syphilis in pregnant women and congenital syphilis clinical management, emphasizing the vertical transmission of Treponema pallidum prevention. Epidemiological and clinical aspects of these infections are presented and recommendations for managers in the programmatic and operational management of syphilis. The article also includes guidelines for health professionals in screening, diagnosing, and treating people with sexually transmitted infections and their sex partners, in addition to strategies for surveillance actions, prevention, and control of the disease. Most congenital syphilis cases arise from test failures in prenatal care or inadequate or no treatment of maternal syphilis.

Brazilian Protocol for Sexually Transmitted Infections, 2020: infections that cause genital ulcers.

Infections that cause genital ulcers are one of the themes comprising the Clinical Protocol and Therapeutic Guidelines for Comprehensive Care for People with Sexually Transmitted Infections, published by the Brazilian Ministry of Health in 2020. The Protocol and Guidelines have been developed based on scientific evidence and validated in discussions with specialists. This article addresses clinical genital ulcer syndrome caused by sexually transmitted infections and its most common etiological agents: Treponema pallidum (syphilis), herpes simplex virus-2 (genital herpes) and herpes simplex virus-1 (perioral herpes), Haemophilus ducreyi (chancroid), Chlamydia trachomatis serotypes L1, L2 and L3 (lymphogranuloma venereum), and Klebsiella granulomatis (donovanosis). Epidemiological and clinical aspects of these infections and guidelines for their diagnosis and treatment are presented, including strategies for surveillance, prevention, and control actions to support health managers and professionals in the qualification of care. Approximately 70% of the genital ulcers attended in specialized clinics are due to sexually transmitted infections, particularly in adolescents and young adults.

[Brazilian Protocol for Sexually Transmitted Infections 2020: congenital syphilis and child exposed to syphilis]. / Protocolo Brasileiro para Infecções Sexualmente Transmissíveis 2020: sífilis congênita e criança exposta à sífilis.

The topics of congenital syphilis and children exposed to syphilis are part of the Clinical Protocol and Therapeutic Guidelines for Comprehensive Care for People with Sexually Transmitted Infections, published by the Brazilian Ministry of Health in 2020. The Protocol and Guidelines have been developed based on scientific evidence and validated in discussions with specialists. This article provides guidelines for clinical management of both syphilis in pregnant women and also congenital syphilis, emphasizing prevention of vertical transmission of Treponema pallidum. Epidemiological and clinical aspects of these infections are presented, as well as recommendations for health service managers regarding the programmatic and operational management of syphilis. The article also includes guidelines for health professionals on screening, diagnosing and treating people with sexually transmitted infections and their sex partners, in addition to strategies for syphilis surveillance, prevention and control actions.

Os temas sífilis congênita e criança exposta à sífilis compõem o Protocolo Clínico e Diretrizes Terapêuticas para Atenção Integral às Pessoas com Infecções Sexualmente Transmissíveis, publicado pelo Ministério da Saúde do Brasil em 2020. Tal documento foi elaborado com base em evidências científicas e validado em discussões com especialistas. Este artigo apresenta orientações para o manejo clínico da sífilis em gestantes e da sífilis congênita, enfatizando a prevenção da transmissão vertical do Treponema pallidum. Nele estão contemplados aspectos epidemiológicos e clínicos desses agravos, bem como recomendações aos gestores no manejo programático e operacional da sífilis. Também se incluem orientações para os profissionais de saúde na triagem, diagnóstico e tratamento das pessoas com infecções sexualmente transmissíveis e suas parcerias sexuais, além de estratégias para ações de vigilância, prevenção e controle da doença.

Los temas sífilis congénita y niños expuestos a la sífilis componen el Protocolo Clínico y Directrices Terapéuticas para la Atención Integral a Personas con Infecciones de Transmisión Sexual, publicado por el Ministerio de Salud de Brasil en 2020. Tal documento fue elaborado con base en evidencia científica y validado en discusiones con especialistas. Este artículo presenta directrices para el manejo clínico de la sífilis en mujeres embarazadas y de la sífilis congénita, con énfasis en la prevención de la transmisión vertical del Treponema pallidum. Se contemplan aspectos epidemiológicos y clínicos de la infección, así como recomendaciones para gestores en la gestión programática y operativa de la sífilis. También se incluyen directrices para profesionales de la salud en la detección, diagnóstico y tratamiento de personas con infecciones de transmisión sexual y sus parejas sexuales, además de estrategias para acciones de vigilancia, prevención y control de la enfermedad.

Perfil epidemiológico da sífilis adquirida em pacientes de um laboratório clínico universitário em Goiânia-GO, no período de 2017 a 2019 / Epidemiological profile of syphilis acquired in patients of a university clinical laboratory in Goiânia-GO from 2017 to 2019

Objetivo: A sífilis é uma doença infectocontagiosa, transmitida pela via sexual e verticalmente durante a gestação. Quando não tratada adequadamente, a doença pode permanecer no organismo por grandes períodos sem sintomas clínicos, pode evoluir atingindo múltiplos sistemas do organismo. O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar o perfil epidemiológico de usuários do Laboratório Clínico da PUC Goiás, com casos confirmados de sífilis adquirida, no período de 2017 a 2019. Métodos: Trata-se de uma pesquisa retrospectiva, a partir da análise dos resultados dos exames de VDRL e FTA-Abs no banco de dados eletrônico do laboratório. Resultados: Um total de 8.884 exames de rastreamento para sífilis adquirida foi solicitado neste período. Deste total, 11,1%, 17,2% e 10,9% apresentaram resultados reagentes no VDRL, respectivamente, nos anos de 2017, 2018 e 2019. Um percentual de 78,7% dos exames positivos para sífilis (VDRL) foi confirmado pelo teste treponêmico FTA-Abs (IgG). Em 2017, 32,45% dos exames foram reagentes para FTA-abs; 7,95% em 2018, e 9,3% em 2019. Os resultados desta pesquisa evidenciam uma maior prevalência de casos de sífilis adquirida em adultos jovens do sexo masculino (47,9%/2017; 72,9%/2018; 63,0%/2019) com baixa escolaridade. Conclusão: Nos últimos anos, a sífilis tem se tornado um grande problema de saúde pública, visto o seu aumento a cada ano, mesmo com tratamento simples e diagnóstico rápido. Medidas de controle, principalmente voltadas para o tratamento adequado do paciente e parceiro, uso de preservativo, informação à população devem ser fortalecidas pelos programas de saúde para controle da sífilis na população estudada.

Objective: Syphilis is an infectious disease, transmitted sexually and vertically during pregnancy. When not treated properly, the disease can remain in the organism for long periods without clinical symptoms, it can evolve reaching multiple systems. The objective of this study was to determine the epidemiological profile of users of the Clinical Laboratory of PUC Goiás, with confirmed cases of acquired syphilis, in the period from 2017 to 2019. Methods: This is a retrospective research, based on the analysis of the results of the VDRL exams and FTA-Abs in the laboratory's electronic database. Results: A total of 8,884 screening tests for acquired syphilis were ordered during this period. Of this total, 11.1%, 17.2% and 10.9% had positive results in the VDRL, respectively, in the years 2017, 2018 and 2019. A percentage of 78.7% of the positive tests for syphilis (VDRL) were confirmed by the FTA-Abs (IgG) treponemic test. In 2017, 32.45% of the tests were reactive for FTA-abs; 7.95% in 2018, and 9.3% in 2019. The results of this research show a higher prevalence of cases of acquired syphilis in young male adults (47.9% / 2017; 72.9% / 2018; 63,0% / 2019) with low education. Conclusion: In recent years, syphilis has become a major public health problem, as it increases every year, even with simple treatment and rapid diagnosis. Control measures, mainly aimed at the adequate treatment of the patient and partner, use of condoms, information to the population must be strengthened by health programs for syphilis control in the studied population.

Feasibility, benefits, and cost-effectiveness of adding universal hepatitis B and syphilis testing to routine antenatal care services in Thai Nguyen province, Vietnam.

Pregnant women in Vietnam have a high prevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) and low prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and syphilis. This study aims to assess the feasibility and benefit of universal testing for HIV, HBV and syphilis in antenatal care (ANC) services. A pilot project was conducted in the Thai Nguyen province of Vietnam between 2012 and 2014. HIV, HBV and syphilis testing were offered to pregnant women. Interventions to eliminate mother-to child-transmission (MTCT) of the three pathogens were provided to infected mothers and their infants. Descriptive analysis was conducted, and the number of infections averted from integrating hepatitis B tests into ANC was estimated. Testing coverage for HIV, HBV and syphilis for the cohort of pregnant women during the pilot project was 98%. Prevalence of HIV, HBV and syphilis infections in this cohort was 0.14%, 7.8%, and 0.03%, respectively. No infant was infected with HIV or syphilis, while HBV infection was diagnosed in 27 infants (13.9%). An estimated 23 mother to child HBV infections were prevented by integrated interventions. The triple prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV, HBV and syphilis is feasible. Investment in the expansion of the integrated approach is required to achieve the goal of eliminating MTCT.

Brazilian Protocol for Sexually Transmitted Infections, 2020: congenital syphilis and child exposed to syphilis

Abstract The topics of congenital syphilis and children exposed to syphilis compose the Clinical Protocol and Therapeutic Guidelines for Comprehensive Care for People with Sexually Transmitted Infections, published by the Brazilian Ministry of Health in 2020. Such document was elaborated based on scientific evidence and validated in discussions with specialists. This article provides guidelines for syphilis in pregnant women and congenital syphilis clinical management, emphasizing the vertical transmission of Treponema pallidum prevention. Epidemiological and clinical aspects of these infections are presented and recommendations for managers in the programmatic and operational management of syphilis. The article also includes guidelines for health professionals in screening, diagnosing, and treating people with sexually transmitted infections and their sex partners, in addition to strategies for surveillance actions, prevention, and control of the disease.

Brazilian Protocol for Sexually Transmitted Infections 2020: epidemiological surveillance

Abstract This article summarizes the chapter on epidemiological surveillance of sexually transmitted infections (STI) that comprises the 2020 Clinical Protocol and Therapeutic Guidelines (PCDT) for Comprehensive Care for People with STI, published by the Health Surveillance Department of the Brazilian Ministry of Health. It presents some reflections on the new case definitions for surveillance of acquired syphilis, syphilis in pregnant women, and congenital syphilis. The 2020 PCDT-IST was elaborated grounded on scientific evidence and validated in discussions with specialists. Epidemiological and clinical aspects are addressed, and health service managers' guidelines regarding programmatic and operational management of these diseases are presented. Guidelines for health professionals on screening, diagnosing, and treating people with STI and their sex partners, in addition to strategies for surveillance, prevention, and control actions, are also published.

Protocolo Brasileiro para Infecções Sexualmente Transmissíveis 2020: sífilis congênita e criança exposta à sífilis / Brazilian Protocol for Sexually Transmitted Infections 2020: congenital syphilis and child exposed to syphilis / Protocolo Brasileño para Infecciones de Transmisión Sexual 2020: sífilis congénita y niño expuesto a la sífilis

Os temas sífilis congênita e criança exposta à sífilis compõem o Protocolo Clínico e Diretrizes Terapêuticas para Atenção Integral às Pessoas com Infecções Sexualmente Transmissíveis, publicado pelo Ministério da Saúde do Brasil em 2020. Tal documento foi elaborado com base em evidências científicas e validado em discussões com especialistas. Este artigo apresenta orientações para o manejo clínico da sífilis em gestantes e da sífilis congênita, enfatizando a prevenção da transmissão vertical do Treponema pallidum. Nele estão contemplados aspectos epidemiológicos e clínicos desses agravos, bem como recomendações aos gestores no manejo programático e operacional da sífilis. Também se incluem orientações para os profissionais de saúde na triagem, diagnóstico e tratamento das pessoas com infecções sexualmente transmissíveis e suas parcerias sexuais, além de estratégias para ações de vigilância, prevenção e controle da doença.

The topics of congenital syphilis and children exposed to syphilis are part of the Clinical Protocol and Therapeutic Guidelines for Comprehensive Care for People with Sexually Transmitted Infections, published by the Brazilian Ministry of Health in 2020. The Protocol and Guidelines have been developed based on scientific evidence and validated in discussions with specialists. This article provides guidelines for clinical management of both syphilis in pregnant women and also congenital syphilis, emphasizing prevention of vertical transmission of Treponema pallidum. Epidemiological and clinical aspects of these infections are presented, as well as recommendations for health service managers regarding the programmatic and operational management of syphilis. The article also includes guidelines for health professionals on screening, diagnosing and treating people with sexually transmitted infections and their sex partners, in addition to strategies for syphilis surveillance, prevention and control actions.

Los temas sífilis congénita y niños expuestos a la sífilis componen el Protocolo Clínico y Directrices Terapéuticas para la Atención Integral a Personas con Infecciones de Transmisión Sexual, publicado por el Ministerio de Salud de Brasil en 2020. Tal documento fue elaborado con base en evidencia científica y validado en discusiones con especialistas. Este artículo presenta directrices para el manejo clínico de la sífilis en mujeres embarazadas y de la sífilis congénita, con énfasis en la prevención de la transmisión vertical del Treponema pallidum. Se contemplan aspectos epidemiológicos y clínicos de la infección, así como recomendaciones para gestores en la gestión programática y operativa de la sífilis. También se incluyen directrices para profesionales de la salud en la detección, diagnóstico y tratamiento de personas con infecciones de transmisión sexual y sus parejas sexuales, además de estrategias para acciones de vigilancia, prevención y control de la enfermedad.

Protocolo Brasileiro para Infecções Sexualmente Transmissíveis 2020: sífilis congênita e criança exposta à sífilis / Brazilian Protocol for Sexually Transmitted Infections 2020: congenital syphilis and child exposed to syphilis / Protocolo Brasileño para Infecciones de Transmisión Sexual 2020: sífilis congénita y niño expuesto a la sífilis

Os temas sífilis congênita e criança exposta à sífilis compõem o Protocolo Clínico e Diretrizes Terapêuticas para Atenção Integral às Pessoas com Infecções Sexualmente Transmissíveis, publicado pelo Ministério da Saúde do Brasil em 2020. Tal documento foi elaborado com base em evidências científicas e validado em discussões com especialistas. Este artigo apresenta orientações para o manejo clínico da sífilis em gestantes e da sífilis congênita, enfatizando a prevenção da transmissão vertical do Treponema pallidum. Nele estão contemplados aspectos epidemiológicos e clínicos desses agravos, bem como recomendações aos gestores no manejo programático e operacional da sífilis. Também se incluem orientações para os profissionais de saúde na triagem, diagnóstico e tratamento das pessoas com infecções sexualmente transmissíveis e suas parcerias sexuais, além de estratégias para ações de vigilância, prevenção e controle da doença.

The topics of congenital syphilis and children exposed to syphilis are part of the Clinical Protocol and Therapeutic Guidelines for Comprehensive Care for People with Sexually Transmitted Infections, published by the Brazilian Ministry of Health in 2020. The Protocol and Guidelines have been developed based on scientific evidence and validated in discussions with specialists. This article provides guidelines for clinical management of both syphilis in pregnant women and also congenital syphilis, emphasizing prevention of vertical transmission of Treponema pallidum. Epidemiological and clinical aspects of these infections are presented, as well as recommendations for health service managers regarding the programmatic and operational management of syphilis. The article also includes guidelines for health professionals on screening, diagnosing and treating people with sexually transmitted infections and their sex partners, in addition to strategies for syphilis surveillance, prevention and control actions.

Los temas sífilis congénita y niños expuestos a la sífilis componen el Protocolo Clínico y Directrices Terapéuticas para la Atención Integral a Personas con Infecciones de Transmisión Sexual, publicado por el Ministerio de Salud de Brasil en 2020. Tal documento fue elaborado con base en evidencia científica y validado en discusiones con especialistas. Este artículo presenta directrices para el manejo clínico de la sífilis en mujeres embarazadas y de la sífilis congénita, con énfasis en la prevención de la transmisión vertical del Treponema pallidum. Se contemplan aspectos epidemiológicos y clínicos de la infección, así como recomendaciones para gestores en la gestión programática y operativa de la sífilis. También se incluyen directrices para profesionales de la salud en la detección, diagnóstico y tratamiento de personas con infecciones de transmisión sexual y sus parejas sexuales, además de estrategias para acciones de vigilancia, prevención y control de la enfermedad.

Antenatal testing for anaemia, HIV and syphilis in Indonesia - a health systems analysis of low coverage.

BACKGROUND: Adverse pregnancy outcomes can be prevented through the early detection and treatment of anaemia, HIV and syphilis during the antenatal period. Rates of testing for anaemia, HIV and syphilis among women attending antenatal services in Indonesia are low, despite its mandate in national guidelines and international policy. METHODS: Midwife-held antenatal care records for 2015 from 8 villages in 2 sub-districts within Cianjur district were reviewed, alongside the available sub-district Puskesmas (Community Health Centre) maternity and laboratory records. We conducted four focus group discussions with kaders (community health workers) (n = 16) and midwives (n = 9), and 13 semi-structured interviews with laboratory and counselling, public sector maternity and HIV management and relevant non-governmental organisation staff. Participants were recruited from village, sub-district, district and national level as relevant to role. RESULTS: We were unable to find a single recorded result of antenatal testing for HIV, syphilis or anaemia in the village (566 women) or Puskesmas records (2816 women) for 2015. Laboratory records did not specifically identify antenatal women. Participants described conducting and reporting testing in a largely ad hoc manner; relying on referral to health facilities based on clinical suspicion or separate non-maternity voluntary counselling and testing programs. Participants recognized significant systematic challenges with key differences between the more acceptable (and reportedly more often implemented) haemoglobin testing and the less acceptable (and barely implemented) HIV and syphilis testing. However, a clear need for leadership and accountability emerged as an important factor for prioritizing antenatal testing and addressing these testing gaps. CONCLUSIONS: Practical solutions such as revised registers, availability of point-of-care tests and capacity building of field staff will therefore need to be accompanied by both funding and political will to coordinate, prioritize and be accountable for testing in pregnancy.

Supernatural explanatory models of health and illness and healthcare use in China among men who have sex with men.

People's beliefs in supernatural explanatory models of health and illness - beliefs in divine and/or supernatural forces to inform how they perceive, interpret, and respond to health and illness - may have important implications for their use of healthcare services, especially among individuals with lower socioeconomic status (SES). However, the relevance of such research for contexts with strong Confucian and Buddhist traditions and sexual minority subpopulations remains unclear. We conducted a nation-wide survey in China of 503 men who have sex with men (MSM) to test hypotheses examining how supernatural beliefs impact commitment to a primary healthcare provider and testing history for HIV and syphilis. We also tested hypotheses regarding how SES may moderate such effects. Results indicate that strength of supernatural beliefs is associated with less commitment to a primary care provider and lower likelihood of HIV testing, particularly among men with lower educational attainment. However, among men with low income, supernatural belief was associated with higher likelihood of testing for HIV and syphilis. Belief in supernatural explanatory models of health and illness may have substantial influence on healthcare use among MSM in China. As religion and spirituality evolves within China, additional research concerning supernatural beliefs and healthcare use is warranted.

Missed opportunities in antenatal care for improving the health of pregnant women and newborns in Geita district, Northwest Tanzania.

BACKGROUND: Despite the significant benefits of early detection and management of pregnancy related complications during antenatal care (ANC) visits, not all pregnant women in Tanzania initiate ANC in a timely manner. The primary objectives of this research study in rural communities of Geita district, Northwest Tanzania were: 1) to conduct a population-based study that examined the utilization and availability of ANC services; and 2) to explore the challenges faced by women who visited ANC clinics and barriers to utilization of ANC among pregnant women. METHODS: A sequential explanatory mixed method design was utilized. Household surveys that examined antenatal service utilization and availability were conducted in 11 randomly selected wards in Geita district. One thousand, seven hundred and nineteen pregnant women in their 3rd trimester participated in household surveys. It was followed by focus group discussions with community health workers and pregnant women that examined challenges and barriers to ANC. RESULTS: Of the pregnant women who participated, 86.74% attended an ANC clinic at least once; 3.62% initiated ANC in the first trimester; 13.26% had not initiated ANC when they were interviewed in their 3rd trimester. Of the women who had attended ANC at least once, the majority (82.96%) had been checked for HIV status, less than a half (48.36%) were checked for hemoglobin level, and only a minority had been screened for syphilis (6.51%). Among women offered laboratory testing, the prevalence of HIV was 3.88%, syphilis, 18.57%, and anemia, 54.09%. In terms of other preventive measures, 91.01% received a tetanus toxoid vaccination, 76.32%, antimalarial drugs, 65.13%, antihelminthic drugs, and 76.12%, iron supplements at least once. Significant challenges identified by women who visited ANC clinics included lack of male partner involvement, informal regulations imposed by health care providers, perceived poor quality of care, and health care system related factors. Socio-cultural beliefs, fear of HIV testing, poverty and distance from health clinics were reported as barriers to early ANC utilization. CONCLUSION: Access to effective ANC remains a challenge among women in Geita district. Notably, most women initiated ANC late and early initiation did not guarantee care that could contribute to better pregnancy outcomes.

Relevance of healthcare reimbursement data to monitor syphilis epidemic: an alternative surveillance through the national health insurance database in France, 2011-2013.

OBJECTIVE: In France, surveillance of early syphilis (primary, secondary and early latent) relies on the clinician-based ResIST sentinel network. Although ResIST enables the monitoring of trends, a complete picture of the syphilis epidemic is not possible. More specifically, cases reported by this network are mostly diagnosed in free sexually transmitted infection clinics and hospitals (75% and 24%, respectively). This study aims to estimate the number and rate of diagnoses made outside these health facilities by exploring health insurance data. METHODS: An algorithm combining healthcare reimbursements for specific diagnostic tests and recommended treatment was fitted to identify syphilis cases. Sensitivity analyses were used to validate the algorithm. Age-standardised and gender-standardised diagnosis rates were estimated using census data. RESULTS: Between 2011 and 2013, 12 644 (7.5 cases per 100 000 inhabitants) reimbursements were made for syphilis-related diagnoses. The annual number of cases increased by 22% from 2011 (n=3771, rate=6.7/100 000) to 2013 (n=4589, rate=8.2/100 000). The rate of syphilis diagnosis increased in men from 12.9/100 000 to 16.0/100 000, while it remained steady in women at approximately 1.8/100 000. The disease burden was greatest in French overseas territories (18.1/100 000) and in the Paris area (11.7 cases/100 000). CONCLUSION: Despite the lack of data on the number of confirmed diagnoses and information on sexual behaviour, these findings demonstrate the relevance of analysing insurance data to help monitor the syphilis epidemic in patients who visit general practitioners and non-hospital-based specialists. Thus, reimbursement database might be a relevant alternative source of continuous information on syphilis in countries with similar insurance-based healthcare systems.