Male genitourinary schistosomiasis-related symptoms among long-term Western African migrants in Spain: a prospective population-based screening study.

BACKGROUND: Schistosomiasis is highly endemic in sub-Saharan Africa and frequently imported to Europe. Male urogenital manifestations are often neglected. We aimed to ascertain the prevalence of genitourinary clinical signs and symptoms among long-term African migrants in a non-endemic European country using a serology test. METHODS: We carried out a prospective, community-based cross-sectional study of adult male migrants from sub-Saharan Africa living in Spain. Schistosoma serology tests and microscopic urine examinations were carried out, and clinical data were obtained from an electronic medical record search and a structured questionnaire. RESULTS: We included 388 adult males, mean age 43.5 years [Standard Deviation (SD) = 12.0, range: 18-76]. The median time since migration to the European Union was 17 [Interquartile range (IQR): 11-21] years. The most frequent country of origin was Senegal (N = 179, 46.1%). Of the 338, 147 (37.6%) tested positive for Schistosoma. Parasite eggs were present in the urine of only 1.3%. Nine genitourinary clinical items were significantly associated with positive Schistosoma serology results: pelvic pain (45.2%; OR = 1.57, 95% CI: 1.0-2.4), pain on ejaculation (14.5%; OR = 1.85, 95% CI: 1.0-3.5), dyspareunia (12.4%; OR = 2.45, 95% CI: 1.2-5.2), erectile dysfunction (9.5%; OR = 3.10, 95% CI: 1.3-7.6), self-reported episodes of infertility (32.1%; OR = 1.69, 95% CI: 1.0-2.8), haematuria (55.2%; OR = 2.37, 95% CI: 1.5-3.6), dysuria (52.1%; OR = 2.01, 95% CI: 1.3-3.1), undiagnosed syndromic STIs (5.4%), and orchitis (20.7%; OR = 1.81, 95% CI: 1.0-3.1). Clinical signs tended to cluster. CONCLUSIONS: Urogenital clinical signs and symptoms are prevalent among male African long-term migrants with a positive Schistosoma serology results. Genital involvement can be frequent even among those with long periods of non-residence in their sub-Saharan African countries of origin. Further research is needed to develop diagnostic tools and validate therapeutic approaches to chronic schistosomiasis.

Zika virus screening during pregnancy: Results and lessons learned from a screening program and a post-delivery follow-up analysis (2016-2022).

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate a Zika virus screening program applied to asymptomatic exposed pregnant women. METHODOLOGY: Analysis of data generated during the roll out of a Zika screening program. We included socio-demographic data, ultrasounds, and serological results (IgM, IgG, and Plaque Reduction Neutralization Test; PRNT) from asymptomatic pregnant women exposed to Zika virus enrolled in the screening program between 2016 to 2019. RESULTS: We included 406 asymptomatic ZIKV-exposed pregnant women who gave 400 full-term new-borns. The median age was 30 years (IQR = 25-34), which was lower (29 years; IQR = 24-34) among women of non-EU migrant origin (76.4% of the sample). Migrant women tended to delay the first pre-natal consultation compared to EU origin women (p = .003). Overall, 83.2% (N = 328) of participants had ZIKV low risk serological profile (IgM-/IgG- or IgM-/IgG+ and PRNT-), 3.0% (N = 12) showed high risk of recent ZIKV infection (IgM+ or PRNT+) and 13.7% (N = 54) had indeterminate results. A fetal malformation was identified in 29 children (9.3%). Fetal malformation was associated with a ZIKV high risk serological profile [24 out of the 246 (1.6%) with low risk profile and 3 out of the 12 with at high risk profile (25.0%; p = .02)]. Four newborns with high risk profile had a positive ZIKV-PCR test, which included two cases with microcephaly. No association was observed between maternal exposure to ZIKV infection and developmental abnormalities during the post-natal period follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: The ZIKV-screening program had considerable costs and yielded a high rate of indeterminate results among asymptomatic pregnant women. Considering the poor value for decision-making of the results, efforts should focus on providing early access to routine maternity care, especially to migrant women. A simpler screening protocol might consider an initial ZIKV-PCR or IgM determination and subsequent referral to a fetal medicine specialist in those women with a positive result and/or whom ultrasound examination has revealed fetal abnormalities (10% of total women in our study sample).

Clinical Performance of Lateral Flow Assay for Cryptosporidium spp. Diagnosis.

Cryptosporidium spp. is an apicomplexan protozoan parasite associated with gastroenteritis in humans. In 2018, Spain showed 1511 confirmed cases, with a growing trend since 2014. Despite this fact, Cryptosporidium spp. is not usually routinely examined when a parasitological study is ordered, although accurate diagnosis is fundamental to prevent the spread of the illness. The main objectives of the present work is to demonstrate the circulation and to study the epidemiology of cryptosporidiosis in patients who were being tested for the presence of Cryptosporidium spp. parasites in the faeces in the Metropolitan North Area of Barcelona, Maresme, and Vallés Occidental using a two-step algorithm. The stool samples were analysed using the Cryptosporidium/Giardia spp. immunochromatographic test; the positive samples were visualised under a microscope using auramine staining. The proportion of Cryptosporidium spp. cases was around 2% in the studied patients, with a pronounced seasonal incidence peak in late summer-early autumn. In our cohort, weight loss was the main symptom related to confirmed cases. The mean age of confirmed patients was 19 years old, and they were younger than the unconfirmed group. Cryptosporidium spp. is one of the parasites that currently circulate in many areas in Europe. Prevalence must be taken into account for active searching.

Análisis de la variabilidad del resultado del cultivo para «Streptococcus agalactiae» entre la semana 35-37 de gestación y el ingreso en sala de partos / Analysis of the variability of the culture outcome for «Streptococcus agalactiae» between week 35-37 of gestation and admission to delivery

Objetivo: Analizar la variabilidad del resultado del cultivo para Streptococcus agalactiae entre la semana 35-37 de gestación y el ingreso en sala de partos, así como las posibles variables influyentes en este cambio. Metodología: Estudio observacional, descriptivo y transversal. Se realizó un análisis descriptivo e inferencial, uni y bivariante. Técnica de muestreo no probabilística accidental. Resultados: Participaron 304 mujeres gestantes (608 muestras). La prevalencia de S. agalactiae se situó en el 15,1 % (preingreso) y el 15,6 % (ingreso). El 7,2 % de las mujeres (22) presentaron variabilidad de resultado entre el primer y el segundo cultivos. El 4,2 % (8) positivizó y un 3 % (14) negativizó. El 22,9 % (29) de los casos positivos presentaron cepas resistentes a clindamicina.Un antecedente de cultivo positivo aumentó la probabilidad de positividad cuatro veces durante la gestación actual. Los principales factores que influyeron en el cambio del resultado del cultivo aumentando su probabilidad fueron: la etnia (6,155 veces), el primer cultivo positivo (15,203 veces), la presencia de infecciones de transmisión sexual (3,8 veces), la edad (x2 0,005) y el peso (x2 0,044) con resultados estadísticamente relevantes. (AU)

Purpose: To investigate the variability of the culture result for Streptococcus agalactiae between weeks 35-37 of gestation and admissions to the delivery room and the possible variables influencing this change. Material and methods: An observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study of a series of cases was conducted with 304 (608 cultures) pregnant women. An accidental non-probabilistic sampling technique was used. Results: The results’ variability occurred in 7.2% (22) of the sample, where 4% (9) changed from positive to negative, and 26% (14) changed from negative to positive. The prevalence of pregnant women with positive Streptococcus agalactiae was 50 positives in the first culture (15.6%) and 46 (15.1%) in a second time. 4.2% (8) were positive and 3% (14) were negative. 22.9% (29) of the positive cases presented strains resistant to clindamycin.Presenting a history of positive culture in another pregnancy increased the probability of positivity four times during the current pregnancy. Likewise, obtaining a positive result in the first culture registered the probability of continuing to be positive in subsequent determinations in 9.5 times. The presence of a history of sexually transmitted infections increased the probability of suffering a change in result by 3.8 times. (AU)

Should Dientamoeba fragillis be looked for in pediatric digestive pathology of an unknown cause? A proposed pilot case-control study.

INTRODUCTION: Dientamoeba (D.) fragilis is a common intestinal protozoan with an unresolved clinical significance. The association between D. fragilis and the etiology of gastrointestinal symptoms in children is unclear. Metronidazole is often used for treatment. The aims of this study are to clarify the clinical relevance of D. fragilis in children with gastrointestinal symptoms, and to determine the clinical and microbiological efficacy of metronidazole in D. fragilis-infected children with gastrointestinal complaints. METHODS: A prospective case-control study was performed from October 2017 to February 2019. A total of 106 individuals aged 1-17 were included. Out of the 106; 59 showed gastrointestinal symptoms (case group), and 47 were without gastrointestinal symptoms (control group). We excluded 2 patients from the case group. D. fragilis was diagnosed by real-time PCR in stool samples. A 10-day course of oral Metronidazole was prescribed in D. fragilis positive children with GI symptoms. Clinical data before and after the treatment as well as peripheral eosinophilia in previous blood samples, were recorded. RESULTS: Of the 104 participants, D. fragilis was found in 17 (29.8%) children from the case group, whereas in the control group the parasite was detected in 11 patients (23.4%) with an odds ratio (OR) of 1.39 (IC 95% 0.53-3.75, p=0.46). The most prevalent clinical manifestation was abdominal pain (46/57, 80.7%). Seventeen cases with a positive PCR received anti-parasitic treatment according to the established protocol, although during the collection period we received only 11 stool samples to perform the post-treatment follow-up. The PCR of the D. fragilis remained positive in 3 patients (3/11, 27.27%). Despite achieving the eradication of the parasite, 4/8 patients (50%) continued with digestive symptoms. CONCLUSIONS: According to our study there were no differences between the D. fragilis infection in children with or without gastrointestinal symptoms. No relation was found between the clinical and microbiological responses after said D. fragilis treatment. Therefore, we conclude that it is not justified to look specifically for D fragilis in pediatric patients with abdominal symptoms.

Should Dientamoeba fragillis be looked for in pediatric digestive pathology of an unknown cause? A proposed pilot case–control study / Se debe investigar la infección por Dientamoeba fragilis en niños con enfermedad digestiva de causa desconocida? Estudio piloto caso-control

Introduction: Dientamoeba (D.) fragilis is a common intestinal protozoan with an unresolved clinical significance. The association between D. fragilis and the etiology of gastrointestinal symptoms in children is unclear. Metronidazole is often used for treatment. The aims of this study are to clarify the clinical relevance of D. fragilis in children with gastrointestinal symptoms, and to determine the clinical and microbiological efficacy of metronidazole in D. fragilis-infected children with gastrointestinal complaints. Methods: A prospective case–control study was performed from October 2017 to February 2019. A total of 106 individuals aged 1–17 were included. Out of the 106; 59 showed gastrointestinal symptoms (case group), and 47 were without gastrointestinal symptoms (control group). We excluded 2 patients from the case group. D. fragilis was diagnosed by real-time PCR in stool samples. A 10-day course of oral Metronidazole was prescribed in D. fragilis positive children with GI symptoms. Clinical data before and after the treatment as well as peripheral eosinophilia in previous blood samples, were recorded. Results: Of the 104 participants, D. fragilis was found in 17 (29.8%) children from the case group, whereas in the control group the parasite was detected in 11 patients (23.4%) with an odds ratio (OR) of 1.39 (IC 95% 0.53–3.75, p=0.46). The most prevalent clinical manifestation was abdominal pain (46/57, 80.7%). Seventeen cases with a positive PCR received anti-parasitic treatment according to the established protocol, although during the collection period we received only 11 stool samples to perform the post-treatment follow-up. The PCR of the D. fragilis remained positive in 3 patients (3/11, 27.27%). Despite achieving the eradication of the parasite, 4/8 patients (50%) continued with digestive symptoms.(AU)

Introducción: Dientamoeba (D.)fragilis es un protozoo intestinal muy común pero con una relevancia clínica incierta. El papel etiopatogénico de la D. fragilis en sintomatología gastro-intestinal no está claramente establecido. El metronidazol es con frecuencia el fármaco de elección. El objectivo de nuestro estudio fue determinar la relación entre D. fragilis y la presencia de clínica digestiva en población pediátrica así como valorar la eficacia del metronidazol en la resolución de los síntomas. Material y métodos: Estudio prospectivo caso-control realizado entre octubre 2017 y febrero 2019. Se incluyeron un total de 106 pacientes entre 1-17 años. 59 pacientes presentaban síntomas digestivos (grupo caso) y 47 pacientes asintomáticos (grupo control). Se excluyeron 2 pacientes del grupo caso. La presencia de D. fragilis se determinó por técnica de PCR real-time(PCR-RT) en muestra de heces. En los pacientes del grupo caso con PCR-RT positiva se realizó tratamiento con metronidazol durante 10 dias. Se recogieron datos clínicos antes y después del tratamiento asi como presencia de eosinofilia periférica. Resultados: De los 104 participantes, se detectó D. fragilis en el 17/59 (29,8%) en el grupo caso y en 11/47 pacientes del grupo control (23,4%) con una odds ratio (OR) de 1.39 (IC95% 0.53-3.75, p=0.46). El síntoma más frecuente fue el dolor abdominal (46/57, 80,7%). Los 17 pacientes del grupo caso recibieron metronidazol según protocolo y se realizó PCR-TR D. fragilis post-tratamiento en 11/17 pacientes. La PCR-RT persistió positiva en 3 pacientes (3/11, 27,27%). De los 8 pacientes que negativizaron PCR-RT, 4 (50%) continuaron con dolor abdominal. Conclusión: Según nuestro estudio no se encontró relación significativa entre la presencia de infección por D.fragillis y la existencia de sintomatología digestiva. Tampoco se observó mejoría clínica significativa en aquellos pacientes infectados que recibieron tratamiento.(AU)

Feasibility of an online antigen self-testing strategy for SARS-CoV-2 addressed to health care and education professionals in Catalonia (Spain). The TESTA'T- COVID Project.

We aimed to assess the feasibility of TESTA'T COVID strategy among healthcare and education professionals.in Spain during the peak of the 6th wave caused by Omicron variant. Kits were ordered online and sent by mail, participants answered an online acceptability/usability survey and uploaded the picture of results. 492 participants ordered a test, 304 uploaded the picture (61.8%). Eighteen positive cases were detected (5.9%). 92.2% were satisfied/very satisfied with the intervention; and 92.5% found performing the test easy/very easy. We demonstrated that implementing online COVID-19 self-testing in schools and healthcare settings in Spain is feasible.

Follow up of the Humoral Response in Healthcare Workers after the Administration of Two Dose of the Anti SARS-CoV-2 Vaccines-Effectiveness in Delta Variant Breakthrough Infections.

The implementation of vaccination among healthcare workers (HCWs) allowed the management of the pandemic in a manner that differed from that in the first waves. It has been demonstrated that the mRNA vaccines elicit good humoral responses but that there are still breakthrough infections. In summer 2021, a fifth wave emerged, despite the good coverage of HCWs in Spain. We aimed to study the SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibody levels as a marker to predict the possibility of Delta variant infections after vaccination after a seroepidemiological campaign. Of the 5000 participants, a total of 4902 (98.04%) showed a positive result in the serological anti-S test and only 98 (1.96%) were negative. Among the 4368 fully vaccinated participants, only in five cases was the serology negative. Of the total number of participants that received antibody results during the study, 162 were PCR positive in the subsequent two months. Among these, 151 were fully vaccinated (two doses). Significant differences between antibody BAU/mL levels were found between PCR positive and non-PCR positive participants (p < 0.01). The median of BAU/mL was higher in those vaccinated patients with no infection (1260 BAU/mL; 465−2080) versus infected patients (661 BAU/mL; 361−2080). These data support the idea that vaccines play an important role in the control of the pandemic, especially among HCWs at the time of the Delta variant circulation. More studies with other variants of concern must be performed in order to establish a correlation between the levels of IgG and the new infections.

Impact of the Introduction of a Two-Step Laboratory Diagnostic Algorithm in the Incidence and Earlier Diagnosis of Clostridioides difficile Infection.

Our aim was to determine changes in the incidence of CD infection (CDI) following the introduction of a two-step diagnostic algorithm and to analyze CDI cases diagnosed in the study period. We retrospectively studied CDI (January 2009 to July 2018) in adults diagnosed by toxin enzyme immunoassay (EIA) (2009−2012) or toxin-EIA + polymerase chain reaction (PCR) algorithm (2013 onwards). A total of 443 patients with a first episode of CDI were included, 297 (67.1%) toxin-EIA-positive and 146 (32.9%) toxin-EIA-negative/PCR-positive were only identified through the two-step algorithm including the PCR test. The incidence of CDI increased from 0.9 to 4.7/10,000 patient-days (p < 0.01) and 146 (32.9%) toxin-negative CDI were diagnosed. Testing rate increased from 24.4 to 59.5/10,000 patient-days (p < 0.01) and the percentage of positive stools rose from 3.9% to 12.5% (p < 0.01). CD toxin-positive patients had a higher frequency of severe presentation and a lower rate of immunosuppressive drugs and inflammatory bowel disease. Mortality (16.3%) was significantly higher in patients with hematological neoplasm, intensive care unit admission and complicated disease. Recurrences (14.9%) were significantly higher with proton pump inhibitor exposure. The two-step diagnostic algorithm facilitates earlier diagnosis, potentially impacting patient outcomes and nosocomial spread. CD-toxin-positive patients had a more severe clinical presentation, probably due to increased CD bacterial load with higher toxin concentration. This early and easy marker should alert clinicians of potentially more severe outcomes.

Schistosomiasis Among Female Migrants in Non-endemic Countries: Neglected Among the Neglected? A Pilot Study.

Background: Schistosomiasis among migrant populations in Europe is an underdiagnosed infection, yet delayed treatment may have serious long-term consequences. In this study we aimed to characterize the clinical manifestations of Schistosoma infection among migrant women, and the degree of underdiagnosis. Methods: We carried out a prospective cross-sectional study among a migrant population living in the North Metropolitan Barcelona area and coming from schistosomiasis-endemic countries. We obtained clinical, laboratory and socio-demographic data from electronic clinical records, as well as information about years of residence and previous attendance at health services. Blood sample was obtained and schistosomiasis exposure was assessed using a specific ELISA serological test. Results: Four hundred and five patients from schistosomiasis-endemic regions were screened, of whom 51 (12.6%) were female. Seropositivity prevalence was 54.8%, but considering women alone we found a prevalence of 58.8% (30 out of 51). The median age of the 51 women was 41.0 years [IQR (35-48)] and the median period of residence in the European Union was 13 years [IQR (10-16)]. Schistosoma-positive women (N = 30) showed a higher prevalence of gynecological signs and symptoms compared to the seronegative women (96.4 vs. 66.6%, p = 0.005). Among seropositive women, the median number of visits to Sexual and Reproductive Health unit prior to diagnosis of schistosomiasis was 41 [IQR (18-65)]. Conclusion: The high prevalence of signs and symptoms among seropositive women and number of previous visits suggest a high rate of underdiagnosis and/or delayed diagnosis of Schistosoma infection, particularly female genital schistosomiasis, among migrant females.

Detection and Prevalence of Macrolide and Fluoroquinolone Resistance in Mycoplasma genitalium in Badalona, Spain.

Macrolide and fluoroquinolone resistance (MLr/FQr) in Mycoplasma genitalium (MG) infections is concerning worldwide. Current guidelines recommend performing MLr detection in MG-positive cases to adjust antimicrobial therapy. We aimed to evaluate the usefulness of PCR followed by pyrosequencing for MLr detection in comparison with a one-step commercial assay and to assess the prevalence of MLr and FQr in Badalona, Spain. A total of 415 MG-positive samples by Allplex STI-7 (Seegene) were analyzed for MLr detection by pyrosequencing. From those, 179 samples were further analyzed for MG and MLr by ResistancePlus® MG kit (SpeeDx) and 100 of them also for fluoroquinolone resistance (FQr) by sequencing the parC gene. Regarding MG detection, Allplex and Resistance Plus® showed an overall agreement of 87%, but this value rose to 95.4% if we compare them for MLr detection. Prevalence of MLr was 23.1% in Badalona, but this rate increased to 73.7% in the HIV-positive patients cohort. FQr detection showed 3% of resistant strains. Pyrosequencing is a convenient and cheap technique for MLr detection, but one-step tools should be considered in high-throughput laboratories. Despite the fact that MLr remained moderate and FQr was low in our study, simultaneous MG and MLr detection would improve patient's management applying resistance-guided treatment strategies.

High-titre methylene blue-treated convalescent plasma as an early treatment for outpatients with COVID-19: a randomised, placebo-controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Convalescent plasma has been proposed as an early treatment to interrupt the progression of early COVID-19 to severe disease, but there is little definitive evidence. We aimed to assess whether early treatment with convalescent plasma reduces the risk of hospitalisation and reduces SARS-CoV-2 viral load among outpatients with COVID-19. METHODS: We did a multicentre, double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial in four health-care centres in Catalonia, Spain. Adult outpatients aged 50 years or older with the onset of mild COVID-19 symptoms 7 days or less before randomisation were eligible for enrolment. Participants were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive one intravenous infusion of either 250-300 mL of ABO-compatible high anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG titres (EUROIMMUN ratio ≥6) methylene blue-treated convalescent plasma (experimental group) or 250 mL of sterile 0·9% saline solution (control). Randomisation was done with the use of a central web-based system with concealment of the trial group assignment and no stratification. To preserve masking, we used opaque tubular bags that covered the investigational product and the infusion catheter. The coprimary endpoints were the incidence of hospitalisation within 28 days from baseline and the mean change in viral load (in log10 copies per mL) in nasopharyngeal swabs from baseline to day 7. The trial was stopped early following a data safety monitoring board recommendation because more than 85% of the target population had received a COVID-19 vaccine. Primary efficacy analyses were done in the intention-to-treat population, safety was assessed in all patients who received the investigational product. This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04621123. FINDINGS: Between Nov 10, 2020, and July 28, 2021, we assessed 909 patients with confirmed COVID-19 for inclusion in the trial, 376 of whom were eligible and were randomly assigned to treatment (convalescent plasma n=188 [serum antibody-negative n=160]; placebo n=188 [serum antibody-negative n=166]). Median age was 56 years (IQR 52-62) and the mean symptom duration was 4·4 days (SD 1·4) before random assignment. In the intention-to-treat population, hospitalisation within 28 days from baseline occurred in 22 (12%) participants who received convalescent plasma versus 21 (11%) who received placebo (relative risk 1·05 [95% CI 0·78 to 1·41]). The mean change in viral load from baseline to day 7 was -2·41 log10 copies per mL (SD 1·32) with convalescent plasma and -2·32 log10 copies per mL (1·43) with placebo (crude difference -0·10 log10 copies per mL [95% CI -0·35 to 0·15]). One participant with mild COVID-19 developed a thromboembolic event 7 days after convalescent plasma infusion, which was reported as a serious adverse event possibly related to COVID-19 or to the experimental intervention. INTERPRETATION: Methylene blue-treated convalescent plasma did not prevent progression from mild to severe illness and did not reduce viral load in outpatients with COVID-19. Therefore, formal recommendations to support the use of convalescent plasma in outpatients with COVID-19 cannot be concluded. FUNDING: Grifols, Crowdfunding campaign YoMeCorono.

Infecciones de transmisión sexual e influencia en la positividad y/o modificación del resultado del cultivo para Streptococcus agalactiae durante la gestación / Sexually transmitted infections and influence on positivity and/or modification of culture results for Streptococcus agalactiae during gestation

Objetivo: Analizar la relación entre las infecciones de transmisión sexual (ITS) y la positividad para Streptococcus agalactiae (SGB) y/o la modificación del resultado del cultivo para SGB durante el tercer trimestre de gestación. Metodología: Estudio observacional, descriptivo y transversal de serie de casos en gestantes durante el periodo 2016-2018. Muestreo no probabilístico, accidental consecutivo, con un análisis descriptivo e inferencial y una recogida de datos ambispectiva. Resultados: La muestra del estudio fue de 304 gestantes (608 cultivos). La prevalencia de SGB en gestantes fue de 48 (15,3%). Existió una variabilidad de resultados entre los cultivos de 22 (7,2%). Un total de 25 gestantes (8,2%) presentaron antecedentes de ITS, lo que multiplicó el riesgo en 3,8 veces (p= 0,01) para la modificación y/o positividad del cultivo. No se halló asociación entre el tipo de ITS y el cultivo positivo para SGB y/o modificación de éste. Conclusiones: El estudio actualiza la prevalencia de SGB en nuestro medio en el 15,1-15,6%, y muestra una variabilidad del resultado del cultivo para SGB durante el tercer trimestre de gestación del 7,2%.El antecedente de ITS se asoció con una mayor probabilidad de modificación del cultivo para SGB (p= 0,01), así como de positividad del cultivo para SGB (p= 0,01) durante el tercer trimestre de gestación.Se debería considerar el antecedente de ITS, dada su influencia en el resultado final y/o positividad del cultivo rectovaginal. Se precisarían estudios de mayor amplitud y prospectivos para optimizar el cribado para SGB durante la gestación. (AU)

Objective: To analyze the relationship between sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and positivity for Streptococcus agalactiae (GBS) and/or the modification of the culture result during third trimester of pregnancy.Methodology: Observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study of a series of cases in pregnancy women during the years 2016-2018. Non probabilistic, accidental and consecutive sampling with a descriptive and inferential analysis.Results: The study sample was 304 pregnant women (608 cultures). The prevalence of GBS was 48 (15.3%). There was a variability of results between the cultures of 22 (7.2%). 25(8.2%) of the pregnant women had a history of STIs, multiplying the risk by 3.8 times (p= 0.01) for the modification and/or positivity of the culture. There was no association between the type of STIs and the positive culture for GBS and/or its modification.Conclusions: The study updates the prevalence of GBS in our environment and shows a variability of between 15.1-15.6% and variability for the result of the culture during the third trimester of pregnancy of 7.2%.The history of STI was also associated with a greater probability of modification (p= 0.01) and positivity (p= 0.01) of the culture for GBS during the third trimester of gestation.A history of STI should be considered given its influence on the result and positivity of the vaginal-rectal culture. A larger study is required to optimize screening for GBS in pregnancy. (AU)

Automated parasitological diagnosis in clinical microbiology laboratories.

Although there is a low prevalence of parasitological infections in Europe, the diagnosis of intestinal parasites is still difficult and laborious for microbiology laboratories. Currently, antigen detection assays and molecular biology allow a more accurate diagnosis, but these techniques have limitations as they cannot detect all the possible parasites present in the samples. The objective of the study was to evaluate the accuracy and the usefulness of automated microscopy SediMAX2 (77 Elektronika, Budapest, Hungary) in the detection of parasitic infections from feces. A total of 197 formol-fixed stool samples were processed in parallel by wet mount examination and by SediMAX2. Sensitivities, specificities and predictive values were analyzed, reaching a sensitivity of 89.51% and a specificity of 98.15% and a very good positive predictive value (99.22%). SediMAX2 is a good tool for a reliable diagnosis of intestinal parasitic infections. The rapid processing and the flexibilty of storage of images analyzed make its incorporation into the day to day laboratory routine recommendable.

Evaluation of VIASURE Sexually Transmitted Diseases Real Time PCR Detection kit (CerTest Biotec) for the diagnostic of sexually transmitted infections / Evaluación de VIASURE® Sexually Transmitted Diseases Real-Time PCR Detection kit (CerTest Biotec) para el diagnóstico de las infecciones de transmisión sexual

Introduction: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are common in our environment, and trends have been increasing in the last few years. Different methods for STIs diagnosis have been applied by microbiology laboratories over years, but real-time PCR has improved this process. Our objective was to evaluate VIASURE Sexually Transmitted Diseases Real-Time PCR Detection kit (CerTestBiotec, S.L.) comparing with the real-time PCR technique used in our laboratory (Allplex™ STI7 Essential Assay, Seegene) which was considered as reference assay. Methods: A total of 948 samples from different sites (vaginal, endocervical, urethral, rectal, pharyngeal swabs and urine samples) were analyzed from July to September 2018. Results: A discordant result was obtained in 4.5% (43 samples). These discrepancies were mainly observed in threshold cycle (Ct) value next to the limit of detection. The k coefficient obtained shows a very high agreement between both methods with k values from 0.92 to 0.99. Conclusions: VIASURE Sexually Transmitted Diseases Real-Time PCR Detection kit provides a very good correlation with Allplex STI7 and therefore, it's a good tool for the diagnostic of STIs. Positive results with Ct value obtained from 35 and low amplification signal should be applied with caution and should be interpreted based on the patient's clinical data.(AU)

Introducción: Las infecciones de transmisión sexual (ITS) son frecuentes en nuestro entorno y con tendencia a aumentar. Las técnicas moleculares han mejorado su diagnóstico aportando sensibilidad y rapidez de resultados. Nuestro objetivo ha sido evaluar el nuevo kit de PCR a tiempo real VIASURE® Sexually Transmitted Diseases (CerTest Biotec, SL) comparándolo con la técnica de PCR a tiempo real empleada en nuestro laboratorio (AllplexTM STI7 Essential Assay, Seegene). Métodos: Se analizaron prospectivamente un total de 948 muestras de diferente localización (exudado vaginal, endocervical, uretral, rectal, faríngeo y orina) recibidas en nuestro laboratorio desde julio hasta septiembre de 2018. Resultados: En el 4,5% (43 muestras) se obtuvo un resultado discordante entre ambas técnicas. Estas discrepancias se observaron principalmente en ciclos próximos al límite de detección. El valor del coeficiente k osciló entre 0,92 a 0,99, mostrando una muy buena correlación entre técnicas. Conclusiones: VIASURE® Sexually Transmitted Diseases Real-Time PCR Detection kit es una buena herramienta para el diagnóstico de las ITS. Muestras con señal de amplificación en ciclos a partir de 35 y baja señal de fluorescencia, deben ser tratados con precaución e interpretarse en función de los datos clínicos del paciente.(AU)

Vigilancia epidemiológica intensificada de arbovirosis: primer caso de dengue autóctono en Cataluña (España), zona Metropolitana Norte de Barcelona, 2018-2019 / Intensified epidemiological surveillance of arbovirosis: First case of native dengue fever in Catalonia (Spain), Northern Metropolitan Area of Barcelona, 2018-2019

OBJETIVO: Valorar los resultados obtenidos por una red de vigilancia epidemiológica y asistencial de arbovirosis compuesta por médicos y profesionales de enfermería de hospital y atención primaria (AP) formados en su identificación, confirmación diagnóstica y manejo clínico. Emplazamiento: Zona Sanitaria Metropolitana Norte de Barcelona (1.400.000 habitantes; Cataluña, España) durante un año natural. PARTICIPANTES: Diecisiete médicos (7 de AP y 10 hospitalarios) más 4 enfermeros/as de AP. Tipo de estudio: Estudio observacional prospectivo. Mediciones principales: Se definieron variables demográficas, epidemiológicas (caso autóctono/importado, sospechoso/probable/confirmado) y asistenciales (síntomas, perfil serológico, periodo virémico). RESULTADOS: De los 34 pacientes identificados cumplían criterios de estudio 26 (76,5%) casos; de ellos, se confirmó alguna arbovirosis en 14 (53,8%): 13 fiebres dengues más 1 chikungunya. No se registraron casos de fiebre de zika. Existían antecedentes de viaje a zonas endémicas (23; 88,4%), pero no en 3 casos (11,6%), en los que se consideró la posibilidad de una transmisión autóctona; de ellos, se confirmó un caso de dengue. La incidencia estimada de arbovirosis fue de 0,4 (IC 95%: 0,33-0,51) casos × 10.000 hab./año, que, comparada con la incidencia estimada en la misma área geográfica durante el periodo 2009-2013 (0,19 casos ×10.000hab./año; IC 95%: 0,07-0,31), mostró un incremento significativo (p = 0,044). Los pacientes en periodo de viremia al momento de la primera visita médica fueron 11 (42,3%). CONCLUSIONES: Un programa de vigilancia epidemiológica intensificada definido a nivel de AP y hospitalario es capaz de detectar significativamente más casos de arbovirosis importadas y transmitidas autóctonamente. Posiblemente asistimos a un aumento en la incidencia de arbovirosis importadas, por lo que las medidas encaminadas a su identificación y confirmación deben reforzarse

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the results obtained by a surveillance network on arbovirosis composed by doctors and nurses located at hospitals and Primary Care trained in their identification, diagnostic confirmation and clinical management. LOCATION: North Metropolitan Area of Barcelona (1,400,000 inhabitants; Catalonia; Spain) during a calendar year. PARTICIPANTS: Seven Primary Care and 10 hospital physicians plus 4 Primary Care nurses. Type of study: A prospective observational study. MAIN MEASUREMENTS: Demographic, epidemiological (autochthonous/imported, suspect/probable/confirmed case) and healthcare variables (symptoms, serological profile, viral period) were defined. RESULTS: Of the 34 patients identified, 26 (76.5%) met study criteria. Among them, any arbovirosis was confirmed in 14 (53.8%): 13 dengue plus 1 chikungunya fever. There were no cases of Zika fever. There was a history of travel to endemic areas 23 (88.4%), but not in 3 cases (11.6%) in which the possibility of an indigenous transmission was considered; of them, a case of dengue was confirmed. The estimated incidence of arbovirosis was 0.4 (95% CI: 0.33-0.51) cases × 10,000 hab/year which, when compared to the estimated incidence in the same geographical area during the period 2009-2013 (0.19 cases × 10,000 hab/year; 95% CI: 0.07-0.31), a significant increase was found (P = .044). Patients within viremia period at the time of their first medical visit were 11 (42.3%). CONCLUSIONS: An intensified epidemiological surveillance program defined at Primary Care and hospital levels is able to detect significantly more cases of imported and autochthonous arbovirosis. Possibly we are witnessing an increase in the incidence of imported arbovirosis and, thus, measures aimed at their identification and confirmation should be reinforced

[Intensified epidemiological surveillance of arbovirosis: First case of native dengue fever in Catalonia (Spain), Northern Metropolitan Area of Barcelona, 2018-2019]. / Vigilancia epidemiológica intensificada de arbovirosis: primer caso de dengue autóctono en Cataluña (España), zona Metropolitana Norte de Barcelona, 2018-2019.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the results obtained by a surveillance network on arbovirosis composed by doctors and nurses located at hospitals and Primary Care trained in their identification, diagnostic confirmation and clinical management. LOCATION: North Metropolitan Area of Barcelona (1,400,000 inhabitants; Catalonia; Spain) during a calendar year. PARTICIPANTS: Seven Primary Care and 10 hospital physicians plus 4 Primary Care nurses. TYPE OF STUDY: A prospective observational study. MAIN MEASUREMENTS: Demographic, epidemiological (autochthonous/imported, suspect/probable/confirmed case) and healthcare variables (symptoms, serological profile, viral period) were defined. RESULTS: Of the 34 patients identified, 26 (76.5%) met study criteria. Among them, any arbovirosis was confirmed in 14 (53.8%): 13 dengue plus 1chikungunya fever. There were no cases of Zika fever. There was a history of travel to endemic areas 23 (88.4%), but not in 3cases (11.6%) in which the possibility of an indigenous transmission was considered; of them, a case of dengue was confirmed. The estimated incidence of arbovirosis was 0.4 (95%CI: 0.33-0.51) cases ×10,000hab/year which, when compared to the estimated incidence in the same geographical area during the period 2009-2013 (0.19cases ×10,000hab/year; 95%CI: 0.07-0.31), a significant increase was found (P=.044). Patients within viremia period at the time of their first medical visit were 11 (42.3%). CONCLUSIONS: An intensified epidemiological surveillance program defined at Primary Care and hospital levels is able to detect significantly more cases of imported and autochthonous arbovirosis. Possibly we are witnessing an increase in the incidence of imported arbovirosis and, thus, measures aimed at their identification and confirmation should be reinforced.

Analytical Performance of Quantitative DiaSorin Liaison SARS-COV-2 Antigen Test for the Asymptomatic Population.

Background: Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) antigen (Ag) tests have been widely employed to identify patients for a rapid diagnosis and pandemic control. Rapid lateral-flow techniques are currently the most used, but automated technologies have emerged as another viable alternative to molecular methods. We aimed to evaluate the analytical performance of the DiaSorin Liaison SARS-CoV-2 Ag test in asymptomatic population and close contacts, for its use as a tool in pandemic control efforts. Material and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted. A total of 861 samples were included, 291 (34%) were positive for SARS-CoV-2 with cycle threshold (Ct) <40, and 570 (66%) were negative. Results: A strong correlation was observed between reverse transcriptase-PCR (RT-PCR) Ct and Ag 50% Tissue Culture Infectious Dose per milliliter (TCID50/ml; r = 0.6486; p < 0.0001) and all RT-PCR negative samples tested negative for the 200 TCID50/ml SARS-Cov-2 Ag cutoff, i.e., a specificity of 100% was reached (95% CI: 99.4-100.0%). Samples with <25 Ct and/or >106 extrapolated copies/ml were reached a sensitivity of 100% (95% IC 97.0-100.0%). For intermediate viral loads (>105 extrapolated copies/ml or <30 Ct), the sensitivity value still exceeded 80%. As with other Ag methods, samples between 30 and 40 Ct could not be detected with a reliable sensitivity. Conclusions: The LIAISON® SARS-CoV-2 Ag assay displays an acceptable sensitivity and a very high specificity that is useful for detecting the presence of SARS-CoV-2 in nasal swabs (NPS) of asymptomatic population or to regular monitoring of risk groups in controlled settings. Additionally, the flexibility in processing different samples and in the sampling preparation process makes this test an option for its use in high throughput laboratories. Automated tests may facilitate result reporting and yield consistent data, while avoiding some of the pitfalls of rapid lateral-flow techniques, such as observer variability.