Molecular Epidemiology of HIV-1 among Prisoners in Central Brazil and Evidence of Transmission Clusters.

Higher rates of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection have been detected in prisoners when compared with the general population, but research into HIV molecular epidemiology and its transmission network has been lacking among them. Thus, this study aimed to verify potential HIV molecular transmission networks among prisoners. In addition, we aimed to describe the mutations related to antiretroviral resistance in these isolates. Thus, we conducted a cross-sectional survey from 2013 to 2018 in prisons in Central-Western Brazil, and the final sampling composed of 84 prisoners. Proviral DNA was extracted from each whole blood sample followed by amplification of the partial polymerase gene and sequencing. Forty-nine sequences (58.3%) were classified as subtype B, followed by C (14.3%), D, and F1 (2.4% each). A complex and dynamic HIV-1 epidemic is observed in the prisons, as 25% of the sequences were recombinant forms. We detected 15 HIV transmission clusters composed of at least two sequences, that included not only prisoners but also individuals from the general population from the same State with a variety of risk behaviors. Thirty-two percent (32.0%) of treatment-experienced prisoners had at least one drug resistance mutation (DRM), while transmitted DRMs were found in 5.9% of the prisoners. We highlight the urgent need for routine surveillance of HIV-1 infection including resistance genotypic tests considering the high disease burden, risky behaviors inside prisons, and the dynamic relationship of prisoners with the outside community.

Human T-Lymphotropic Virus-1/2 Infection in Central Brazil Prisons: A Multicenter Study.

Human T-lymphotropic virus (HTLV) infection is endemic in some group populations. Prisoners are at high risk of acquiring HTLV infection mainly due to the environment of closed penal institutions, socioeconomic conditions, and risk behaviors. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence, the occurrence of new cases of HTLV infection after a 1-year follow-up, and circulating subtypes of HTLV-1 among prisoners from twelve closed prisons in Mato Grosso do Sul state, Central Brazil. A total of 1,507 prisoners were randomly enrolled in the cross-sectional study. Out of the 1,507 participants, 1,000 prisoners, susceptible to HTLV infection, were included in the prospective cohort study. In the cross-sectional study, serological evidence of HTLV infection was 0.4% (CI 95%: 0.1-0.7), tested for anti-HTLV antibodies by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Three samples were positive for HTLV-1, two samples were positive for HTLV-2, and 1 sample was indeterminate by the Western blot method. The presence of HTLV proviral DNA was detected in all positive samples by amplification of the HTLV tax gene through nested-PCR. Phylogenetic analysis showed that HTLV-1 samples belonged to the Cosmopolitan subtype Transcontinental subgroup. From a cohort of 1,000 individuals, no new case of HTLV infection was detected. Although the prevalence rate of HTLV infection found in this study was similar to that observed in the Brazilian general population, the lack of access to preventive interventions and harm reduction measures all contribute to increasing the risk of HTLV transmission and acquisition among this key and vulnerable population.

Cytokine profile in Leishmania-positive blood donors.

Serum levels of interleukin 2 (IL-2), interleukin 4 (IL-4), interleukin 6 (IL-6), interleukin 10 (IL-10), interleukin 17 (IL-17), interferon gamma (IFN-γ), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), and interleukin 1ß (IL-1ß), cytokines involved in the immune response, were investigated in 75 Leishmania-positive blood donors living in endemic areas. Based on their status in 2011 and 2015, the subjects were clustered into three groups: positive for at least one diagnostic method in both years, but lacking clinical progression to disease (G1); positive on at least one method in 2011 but negative in 2015 (G2); negative on all methods in both years (G3). Donors were interviewed for sociodemographic data collection and underwent clinical evaluation and laboratory tests. Serum cytokines were quantified using a CBA Flex set (BD Biosciences). Significant differences were found for all the cytokines evaluated, with lower concentrations in consistently Leishmania-negative individuals. The exception was IFN-γ, with similar levels among all donors. No changes consistent with active disease were observed in the laboratory results for Leishmania-positive donors who underwent clinical evaluation, none of whom progressed to disease. This suggests that infection control is associated with serum IL-17 levels. Resolution of Leishmania infection in positive donors may be related to high levels of IL-17 and low levels of IL-10, highlighting the role played by IL-17 in asymptomatic Leishmania-infected individuals.

Integrated continuous care: implementation in Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil / Cuidado contínuo integrado: implantação em Mato Grosso do Sul, Brasil

The demographic transition that occurred in Brazil brought changes in its health indicators. Integrated Continuous Care (ICC) was organized as a health care model aimed at increasing the independence and well-being of people with acute or recent functional dependence. This study aimed to describe the development and implementation of the Integrated Continuous Care in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. This care model utilized the principles of the National Humanization Policy, such as the extended and shared clinic, embracement, educational practices and meetings with caregivers, families, and patients, open visits, participation and autonomy of the patient and family in the construction of the Singular Therapeutic Project, and shared discharge from hospital. Assistance and support to patients who were already released from ICC must be increased in the primary health care setting to ensure continuity of recovery, better readaptation, and successful family and social reintegration. As a positive result, we set up an outpatient clinic for ICC patients who needed continuous clinical follow-up after rehabilitation. This allows patient re-evaluation, reduces re-admission rates, and maintains the domiciliary care management educational process. As an innovative approach to improving health care outcomes, ICC allows the patients to leave the hospital environment and go home on some weekends. The ICC project has enabled many advances, especially in patient-centered care and shared decision-making. The support of the São Julião Hospital administration has been vital to the success of ICC Unit treatments.

A transição demográfica identificada no Brasil trouxe mudança de indicadores de saúde. Os Cuidados Continuados Integrados (CCI) se formatam como um modelo de assistência que busca aumentar a independência e bem estar das pessoas com dependência funcional aguda ou recente. O estudo tem como objetivo de descrever a construção e implantação dos Cuidados Continuados Integrados no estado de MatoGrosso do Sul, Brasil. Este modelo de assistência utiliza ferramentas da Política Nacional de Humanização, como clínica ampliada e compartilhada, acolhimento, práticas educativas e reuniões com cuidadores, familiares e pacientes, visitas abertas, participação e autonomia do paciente e familiares no projeto terapêutico singular e alta compartilhada. A assistência e o apoio aos pacientes pós-alta CCI precisam ser fortalecidos na rede básica de saúde, a fim de garantir a continuidade da recuperação, readaptação e perfeita reinserção familiar e social. Como resultado positivo, iniciou-se o ambulatório para pacientes egressos do CCI que precisavam de acompanhamento clínico contínuo após a reabilitação. Esse ambulatório permite a reavaliação do paciente, contribui para reduzir a reinternação e mantém o processo educacional de gerenciamento do cuidado domiciliar. Enquanto inovação em saúde para melhorar os resultados dos cuidados de saúde, o CCI permite a saída dos pacientes do ambiente hospitalar para o domicilio em alguns finais de semana. O projeto CCI trouxe muitos avanços, especialmente o cuidado centrado no paciente e a decisão compartilhada. O apoio da administração do Hospital São Julião tem sido vital para o sucesso dos tratamentos realizados na unidade CCI.

Screening for HBV, HCV, HIV and syphilis infections among bacteriologically confirmed tuberculosis prisoners: An urgent action required.

Viral hepatitis, syphilis, HIV, and tuberculosis infections in prisons have been identified globally as a public health problem. Tuberculosis (TB) and viral hepatitis co-infection may increase the risk of anti-tuberculosis treatment-induced hepatotoxicity, leading to the frequent cause of discontinuation of the first-line anti-tuberculosis drugs. Therefore, the aim of this cross-sectional study was to investigate the epidemiological features of HCV, HBV, syphilis and HIV infections among bacteriologically confirmed tuberculosis prisoners in Campo Grande (MS), Central Brazil. The participants who agreed to participate (n = 279) were interviewed and tested for the presence of active or current HCV, HBV, syphilis and HIV infections. The prevalence of HCV exposure was 4.7% (13/279; 95% CI 2.2-7.1). HCV RNA was detected in 84.6% (11/13) of anti-HCV positive samples. Out of 279 participants, 19 (6.8%; 95% CI 4.4-10.4) were HIV co-infected, 1.4% (4/279, 95% CI 0.5-3.8) had chronic hepatitis B virus (HBsAg positive) and 9.3% (26/279, 95% CI 6.4-13.4) had serological marker of exposure to hepatitis B virus (total anti-HBc positive). The prevalence of lifetime syphilis infection (anti-T. pallidum positive) was 10% (28/279, 95% CI 7.0-14.2) and active syphilis (VDRL ≥ 1/8 titre) was 5% (14/279, 95% CI 2.9-8.3). The prevalence of TB/HCV co-infection among prisoners with HIV (15.8%) was higher than among HIV-non-infected prisoners (3.8%; P<0.05). These results highlight the importance of hepatitis testing among prisoners with bacteriologically confirmed case of TB who can be more effectively and safely treated in order to reduce the side effects of hepatotoxic anti-TB drugs.

A integração do cuidado: dificuldades e perspectivas / The integration of care: difficulties and perspectives

Objetivo: caracterizar a integração do cuidado entre as equipes de Assistência Domiciliar Terapêutica em HIV/Aids e a Estratégia Saúde da Família na perspectiva de profissionais, pacientes e cuidadores. Método: trata-se de um estudo qualitativo, descritivo, com 26 profissionais de saúde das equipes de Assistência Domiciliar Terapêutica em HIV/Aids (ADT) e Estratégia Saúde da Família (ESF) e oito pacientes/cuidadores. Utilizaram-se roteiros de entrevistas estruturados que foram analisadas por meio da técnica Análise de Discurso, de Bardin, e apresentadas sob a forma de categorização. Resultados: demonstra-se que as equipes não desenvolvem ações integradas, mas acreditam na melhora da qualidade da assistência se os cuidados fossem conjuntos. Constata-se que a falta de integração também é percebida pelo paciente e/ou cuidador, contribuindo, cada vez mais, para o distanciamento da atenção primária pelas pessoas vivendo com HIV/Aids (PVHA). Conclusão: concluiu-se que é necessário promover, com apoio institucional, a articulação das equipes para a conquista da integralidade e, consequentemente, o alcance de uma assistência humanizada e com qualidade.(AU)

Objective: to characterize the integration of care among the teams of Home Care Therapy in HIV / AIDS and the Family Health Strategy from the perspective of professionals, patients and caregivers. Method: this is a qualitative, descriptive study with 26 health professionals from the Home Care Therapy in HIV / AIDS (HCT) and Family Health Strategy (FHS) and eight patients / caregivers. We used structured interview scripts that were analyzed through the technique of Discourse Analysis, by Bardin, and presented in the form of categorization. Results: it is demonstrated that the teams do not develop integrated actions but believe in the improvement of the quality of care if the care were joint. It is observed that the lack of integration is also perceived by the patient and / or caregiver, contributing more and more to the distancing of primary care by people living with HIV / AIDS (PLHA). Conclusion: it was concluded that it is necessary to promote, with institutional support, the articulation of the teams for the achievement of integrality and, consequently, the reach of humanized and quality care.(AU)

Objetivo: caracterizar la integración del cuidado entre los equipos de Asistencia Domiciliar Terapéutica en VIH / SIDA y la Estrategia Salud de la Familia en la perspectiva de profesionales, pacientes y cuidadores. Método: se trata de un estudio cualitativo, descriptivo, con 26 profesionales de salud de los equipos de Asistencia Domiciliaria Terapéutica en VIH / SIDA (ADT) y Estrategia Salud de la Familia (ESF) y ocho pacientes / cuidadores. Se utilizaron guiones de entrevistas estructuradas que fueron analizadas por medio de la técnica Análisis de Discurso, de Bardin, y presentadas en forma de categorización. Resultados: se demuestra que los equipos no desarrollan acciones integradas, pero creen en la mejora de la calidad de la asistencia si los cuidados fueran conjuntos. Se constata que la falta de integración también es percibida por el paciente y / o cuidador, contribuyendo, cada vez más, al distanciamiento de la atención primaria por las personas viviendo con VIH / SIDA (PVHA). Conclusión: se concluyó que es necesario promover, con apoyo institucional, la articulación de los equipos para la conquista de la integralidad y, consecuentemente, el alcance de una asistencia humanizada y con calidad.(AU)

Tuberculosis among correctional facility workers: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Prison inmates can transmit tuberculosis, including drug-resistant strains, to correctional facility workers and the community. In this systematic literature review, we investigated the magnitude of active and latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) and associated risk factors among correctional facility workers. METHODS: We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, LILACS, Cochrane CENTRAL, ISI Web of Science, CINAHL, and SCOPUS databases (January 1, 1989-December 31, 2017) for studies with the MeSH terms "prison" (and similar) AND "tuberculosis", without language restriction. We searched for gray literature in Google Scholar and conference proceedings. Stratified analyses according to tuberculosis burden were performed. RESULTS: Of the 974 titles identified, 15 (nine good, six fair quality) fulfilled the inclusion criteria (110,393 correctional facility workers; six countries; 82,668 active tuberculosis; 110,192 LTBI). Pooled LTBI prevalence and incidence rates were 26% (12-42, I2 = 99.0%) and 2% (1-3, I2 = 98.6%), respectively. LTBI prevalence reached 44% (12-79, I2 = 99.0%) in high-burden countries. Active tuberculosis was reported only in low-burden countries (incidence range, 0.61-450/10,000 correctional facility workers/year). LTBI-associated risk factors included job duration, older age, country of birth, current tobacco smoking, reported contact with prisoners, and BCG vaccination. CONCLUSION: Despite the risk of bias and high heterogeneity, LTBI was found to be prevalent in correctional facility workers, mainly in high-burden countries. LTBI risk factors suggest both occupational and community exposure. Active tuberculosis occurrence in low-burden countries suggests higher vulnerability from recent infection among correctional facility workers in these countries. Systematic surveillance and infection control measures are necessary to protect these highly vulnerable workers.

A diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis and drug resistance among inmates in Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil.

INTRODUCTION: High endemic levels of pulmonary tuberculosis in prisons result from overcrowding, limited access to healthcare, delayed diagnosis, sustained transmission owing to poor control measures, and multidrug resistance. This study evaluated locally implemented measures for early pulmonary tuberculosis diagnosis and evaluated resistance to anti-tuberculosis drugs. METHODS: This transversal study employed data from the Mato Grosso do Sul State Tuberculosis Control Program obtained from 35 correctional facilities in 16 counties for 2 periods (2007-2010 and 2011-2014). RESULTS: Statewide prevalence (per 100,000) was 480.0 in 2007 and 972.9 in 2014. The following indicators showed improvement: alcohol-acid-fast bacillus testing (from 82.7% to 92.9%); cultures performed (55.0% to 81.8%); drug susceptibility testing of positive cultures (71.6% to 62.4%); and overall drug susceptibility testing coverage (36.6% to 47.4%). Primary and acquired resistance rates for 2007-2014 were 21.1% and 30.0%, respectively. Primary and acquired multidrug resistance rates were 0.3% and 1.3%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Prevalence rates increased, and laboratory indicators improved as a result of capacity building and coordination of technical teams and other individuals providing healthcare to inmates. Resistance rates were high, thereby negatively affecting disease control.

Leishmania infection in blood donors: A new challenge in leishmaniasis transmission?

Transfusion-transmitted leishmaniasis has been a concern in regions endemic for the disease. Whether immediate or delayed, the risks posed by this mode of transmission call for careful assessment. The purpose of this study was to detect Leishmania infection in blood donors living in an endemic area and to investigate progression to the disease in these individuals. Immunofluorescent antibody test, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, leishmaniasis rapid test, and the polymerase chain reaction were applied to 430 donors in an initial evaluation. Of those donors with at least one positive test, 50 were reevaluated four years later by the same methods, as were 25 controls who had been negative on the same tests. In the first evaluation, Leishmania infection was detected in 41.4% (95% CI: 36.7-46.1) of donors (n = 430). None of the 75 reevaluated individuals had developed the disease, but retesting revealed positivity in at least one test in 36.0% (95% CI: 25.1-46.9) of donors. Of the 50 initially testing positive, 50% remained so on retesting. Of the 25 initially negative controls, two tested positive in the subsequent evaluation. The severity of the parasitosis and the risk of transfusion transmission warrant investigation of the potential inclusion of methods for Leishmania detection into blood banks for effective screening of infected donors.

A diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis and drug resistance among inmates in Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil

Abstract INTRODUCTION: High endemic levels of pulmonary tuberculosis in prisons result from overcrowding, limited access to healthcare, delayed diagnosis, sustained transmission owing to poor control measures, and multidrug resistance. This study evaluated locally implemented measures for early pulmonary tuberculosis diagnosis and evaluated resistance to anti-tuberculosis drugs. METHODS: This transversal study employed data from the Mato Grosso do Sul State Tuberculosis Control Program obtained from 35 correctional facilities in 16 counties for 2 periods (2007-2010 and 2011-2014). RESULTS: Statewide prevalence (per 100,000) was 480.0 in 2007 and 972.9 in 2014. The following indicators showed improvement: alcohol-acid-fast bacillus testing (from 82.7% to 92.9%); cultures performed (55.0% to 81.8%); drug susceptibility testing of positive cultures (71.6% to 62.4%); and overall drug susceptibility testing coverage (36.6% to 47.4%). Primary and acquired resistance rates for 2007-2014 were 21.1% and 30.0%, respectively. Primary and acquired multidrug resistance rates were 0.3% and 1.3%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Prevalence rates increased, and laboratory indicators improved as a result of capacity building and coordination of technical teams and other individuals providing healthcare to inmates. Resistance rates were high, thereby negatively affecting disease control.

Treatment Outcomes of Brazilian Inmates with Treponema pallidum and Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection: A Prospective Cohort Study.

A prospective cohort study was conducted to evaluate the incidence and treatment outcomes of syphilis and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in inmates from Central Brazil. In 2013, 3,363 inmates from 12 prisons in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul were recruited, and 1,614 remained incarcerated after 1 year. The inmates were interviewed, and blood samples were collected for serological testing for Treponema pallidum and HIV infections. Inmates infected with T. pallidum or HIV within the first year were assessed for treatment using prison medical record data, based on Venereal Disease Research Laboratory test results, HIV-1 viral load, and CD4 counts. Acquired syphilis was identified in 5.8% (N = 95) of the inmates and 74% (N = 70) of them demonstrated poor treatment outcomes after 1 year. Multivariate analysis revealed that not reporting a stable partner was a risk factor for failure of syphilis treatment. Twenty-five patients had HIV (1.5%) and among those, 13 (52%) had an HIV-1 viral load > 200 copies/mL after 1 year. The incidence of T. pallidum and HIV infections was 0.5% (N = 9). The poor treatment outcomes of syphilis and HIV within Brazilian prisons demonstrate the inadequacy of public health programs. Although the incidence of these infections within the prison population is low, new cases still occur. Our results reinforce the significance of screening programs during prison admission for early detection and treatment of sexually transmitted infections.

High Prevalence of Treponema pallidum Infection in Brazilian Prisoners.

The number of new syphilis cases in Brazil has risen alarmingly in recent years. However, there is limited data regarding syphilis prevalence in the Brazilian prison population. To facilitate the development of effective interventions, a cross-sectional study was undertaken to determine the prevalence of Treponema pallidum infection, active syphilis, and associated risk factors among Brazilian prisoners. We administered a questionnaire to a population-based sample of prisoners from 12 prisons in Central-West Brazil and collected sera for syphilis testing, from January to December 2013. Univariable and multivariable regression analyses were performed to assess associations with active syphilis. We recruited 3,363 prisoners (men: 84.6%; women: 15.4%). The overall lifetime and active syphilis prevalences were 10.5% (9.4% among men; 17% among women, P < 0.001) and 3.8% (2% among men; 9% among women, P < 0.001), respectively. The variables associated with active syphilis in men prisoners were homosexual preference, history of sexually transmitted infections, and human immunodeficiency virus status. Among women, the factors were sex with intravenous drug users, genital ulcer disease, and previous incarceration. Despite the high prevalence of active syphilis, 88.5% reported unawareness of their serological status and 67% reported unprotected sexual practices. Women had the highest rates of infection, including them in a high-risk group for the development of syphilis during pregnancy. Thus, implementing screening programs to enable continuous measures of control and prevention of T. pallidum infection in the prison environment, mainly in women institutions, is important to prevent severe forms of this disease and congenital infections.

Prevalence and Incidence of HCV Infection among Prisoners in Central Brazil.

The aim of this multicenter, cross sectional study was to assess the prevalence, incidence and associated risk factors among incarcerated populations from twelve Brazilian prisons. The total of 3,368 individuals from twelve prisons was randomly recruited between March 2013 and March 2014. Participants were interviewed, and provided blood samples which were tested for antibodies to Hepatitis C (HCV ab). One year after the first investigation, a cohort study was conducted with 1,656 inmates who participated the cross sectional study. Positive samples were tested for the presence of HCV RNA. Out of 3,368 inmates, 520 (15.4%) were females, and 2,848 (84.6%) were males. The overall prevalence of HCV was 2.4% (95% CI: 1.9 to 2.9), with 0.6% (95% CI: 0.4 to 0.8) in females, and 2.7% (95% CI: 2.1 to 3.3) in males (p<0.01). HCV RNA was detected in 51/80 (63.7%) samples. Among men prisoners, multivariate analysis of associated factors showed independent associations between HCV exposure and increasing age, inject drug use, length of incarceration, smoking hashish, sharing needle and syringe and HIV positivity. During the cohort study, 7/1,656 new cases of HCV infection were detected, and the incidence rate was 0.4/100 person-year. Once high frequency rates of specific HCV risk behaviors and new HCV infections have been identified inside prisons, effective interventions strategies such as screening, clinical evaluation and treatment to reduce the spread of HCV infection are essential.

Estudo multicêntrico da prevalência de tuberculose e HIV na população carcerária do Estado do Mato Grosso do Sul / Multicenter study of the prevalence of tuberculosis and HIV in the prison population of the State of Mato Grosso do Sul

INTRODUÇÃO: Estudos anteriores relataram maior prevalência de Tuberculose e HIV entre os prisioneiros do que na população geral no Brasil, mas existem dados limitados disponíveis para facilitar o desenvolvimento de intervenções efetivas neste cenário de alta transmissão. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a prevalência e os fatores de risco associados à Tuberculose e ao HIV. METODOLOGIA: Realizado questionário para a amostra de detentos de 12 prisões em Mato Grosso do Sul (Brasil), prova tuberculínica, coletado sangue para teste de HIVe duas amostras de escarro para baciloscopia e cultura de participantes que relataram tosse de qualquer duração, de Janeiro a Dezembro de2013. RESUILTADOS: Foram recrutados 3.380 detentos, dos quais 2.861(84,6%) eram homens de 8 prisões e 519 (15,4%) eram mulheres de4 prisões. Entre os 1.020 (30%) indivíduos que relataram tosse, 691(68%) coletaram escarro e foram identificados 31 casos de tuberculose ativa, com uma prevalência de 917 por 100.000 detentos. A prevalência de tuberculose latente foi de 22,5% e 11,7% para homens e mulheres,respectivamente. Dos participantes, 55 (1,63%) são soropositivos: 45(1,58%) homens e 10 mulheres (1,93%). CONCLUSÕES: Observou-se que a prevalência de tuberculose ativa e HIV são mais elevadas entre detentos do que na população geral, o que indica um alto risco de infecção e transmissão dentro dessas configurações. Para melhorar o controle da tuberculose nas prisões é necessária a detecção de casos de TB ativa em presídios através da triagem frequente e detecção de casos passiva e ativa.

BACKGROUND: Prior studies have reported higher Tuberculosis and HIVprevalence among prisoners than the general population in Brazil, yet there are limited data available to facilitate the development of effectiveinterventions in this high-transmission setting. The aim of this study wasto evaluate the prevalence and risk factors associated with TB and HIV. METHODS: We administered a questionnaire and tuberculin skin test (TST)to a population-based sample of inmates from 12 prisons in Mato Grasso do Sul (Brazil) and collected sera for HIV testing and two sputum samplesfor smear microscopy and culture from participants reporting a cough ofany duration, from January to December 2013. RESULTS: We recruited 3,380inmates, of which 2,861 (84.6%) were males from 8 prisons, and 519(15.4%) were females from 4 prisons. Among the 1,020 (30%) subjectswho reported a cough, we obtained sputum from 691 (68%) and identified31 cases of active TB for a prevalence of 917 per 100,000 prisoners. The prevalences of LTBI were 22.5% and 11.7% for male and female prisoners, respectively. Of these participants, 55 (1.63%) tested HIV-positive: 45(1.58%) men and 10 women (1.93%). It is observed that the prevalence ofTB and HIV are higher in prisons than in urban populations, indicating ahigh risk of infection and transmission within these settings. CONCLUSIONS: It is observed that the prevalence of Tuberculose and HIV are higher inprisons than in urban populations, indicating a high risk of infection andtransmission within these settings. For enhancing TB control in prisons is necessary case detection for active TB in prison facilities through frequent screening and passive and active case-finding of inmates.

Impact of mass-screening on tuberculosis incidence in a prospective cohort of Brazilian prisoners.

BACKGROUND: Globally, prison inmates are a high-risk population for tuberculosis (TB), but the specific drivers of disease and impact of mass screening interventions are poorly understood. METHODS: We performed a prospective cohort study to characterize the incidence and risk factors for tuberculosis infection and disease in 12 Brazilian prisons, and to investigate the effect of mass screening on subsequent disease risk. After recruiting a stratified random sample of inmates, we administered a questionnaire to ascertain symptoms and potential risk factors for tuberculosis; performed tuberculin skin testing (TST); collected sera for HIV testing; and obtained two sputum samples for smear microscopy and culture, from participants reporting a cough of any duration. We repeated the questionnaire and all tests for inmates who remained incarcerated after 1 year. TST conversion was defined as TST ≥10 mm and an induration increase of at least 6 mm in an individual with a baseline TST <10 mm. Cox proportional hazard models were performed to identify risk factors associated with active TB. To evaluate the impact of screening on subsequent risk of disease, we compared TB notifications over one year among individuals randomized to screening for active TB with those not randomized to screening. RESULTS: Among 3,771 inmates recruited, 3,380 (89.6 %) were enrolled in the study, and 1,422 remained incarcerated after one year. Among 1,350 inmates (94.9 %) with paired TSTs at baseline and one-year follow-up, 25.7 % (272/1060) converted to positive. Among those incarcerated for the year, 10 (0.7 %) had TB at baseline and 25 (1.8 %) were diagnosed with TB over the subsequent year. Cases identified through active screening were less likely to be smear-positive than passively detected cases (10.0 % vs 50.9 %; p < 0.01), suggesting early case detection. However, there was no reduction in subsequent disease among individuals actively screened versus those not screened (1.3 % vs 1.7 %; p = 0.88). Drug use during the year (AHR 3.22; 95 % CI 1.05-9.89) and knows somebody with TB were (AHR 2.86; 95 % CI 1.01-8.10) associated with active TB during one year of follow up CONCLUSIONS: Mass screening in twelve Brazilian prisons did not reduce risk of subsequent disease in twelve Brazilian prisons, likely due to an extremely high force of infection. New approaches are needed to control TB in this high-transmission setting.

A Cross-Sectional Survey of HIV Testing and Prevalence in Twelve Brazilian Correctional Facilities.

BACKGROUND: Prior studies have reported higher HIV prevalence among prisoners than the general population in Brazil, but data have been derived from single prisons. The aim of this study was to evaluate HIV testing practices, prevalence and linkage to care among inmates in a network of 12 prisons. METHODS: We administered a questionnaire to a population-based sample of inmates from 12 prisons in Central-West Brazil and collected sera for HIV and syphilis testing from January to December 2013. We evaluated factors associated with HIV testing and infection using multivariable logistic regression models. Six months after HIV testing, we assessed whether each HIV-infected prisoner was engaged in clinical care and whether they had started antiretroviral therapy. RESULTS: We recruited 3,362 inmates, of whom 2,843 (85%) were men from 8 prisons, and 519 (15%) were women from 4 prisons. Forty-five percent of participants reported never having been tested for HIV previously. In multivariable analysis, the variables associated with previous HIV testing were lack of a stable partner (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 1.38; 95% CI: 1.18-1.60), completed more than four years of schooling (AOR 1.40; 95% CI: 1.20-1.64), history of previous incarceration (AOR: 1.68; 95% CI: 1.43-1.98), history of mental illness (AOR 1.52; 95% CI: 1.31-1.78) and previous surgery (AOR 1.31; 95% CI: 1.12-1.52). Fifty-four (1.6%) of all participants tested positive for HIV; this included 44 (1.54%) men and 10 (1.92%) women. Among male inmates, HIV infection was associated with homosexuality (AOR 6.20, 95% CI: 1.73-22.22), self-report of mental illness (AOR 2.18, 95% CI: 1.13-4.18), history of sexually transmitted infections (AOR 3.28, 95% CI: 1.64-6.56), and syphilis sero-positivity (AOR 2.54, 95% CI: 1.20-5.39). Among HIV-infected individuals, 34 (63%) were unaware of their HIV status; only 23 of these 34 (68%) newly diagnosed participants could be reached at six month follow-up, and 21 of 23 (91%) were engaged in HIV care. CONCLUSIONS: HIV testing rates among prison inmates are low, and the majority of HIV-infected inmates were unaware of their HIV diagnosis. Incarceration can be an opportunity for diagnosis and treatment of HIV among vulnerable populations who have poor access to health services, but further work is needed on transitional HIV care for released inmates.

Disseminated cutaneous atypical mycobacteriosis by M. chelonae after sclerotherapy of varicose veins in a immunocompetent patient: a case report.

Atypical mycobacteria are saprophytic organisms not transmitted from person to person, which affect mainly immunosuppressed but also immunocompetent individuals. We present a case of atypical mycobacteriosis after a vascular procedure, with widespread cutaneous lesions associated with polyarthralgia. Mycobacterium chelonae was identified by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method. The patient showed improvement after treatment with three antibiotics. Mycobacterium chelonae causes skin lesions after invasive procedures. The clinical form depends on the immune state of the host and on the entry points. The diagnosis is based essentially on culture and the mycobacteria is identified by PCR. We highlight the importance of investigating atypical mycobacteriosis when faced with granulomatous lesions associated with a history of invasive procedures.

Disseminated cutaneous atypical mycobacteriosis by M. chelonae after sclerotherapy of varicose veins in a immunocompetent patient: a case report

Atypical mycobacteria are saprophytic organisms not transmitted from person to person, which affect mainly immunosuppressed but also immunocompetent individuals. We present a case of atypical mycobacteriosis after a vascular procedure, with widespread cutaneous lesions associated with polyarthralgia. Mycobacterium chelonae was identified by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method. The patient showed improvement after treatment with three antibiotics. Mycobacterium chelonae causes skin lesions after invasive procedures. The clinical form depends on the immune state of the host and on the entry points. The diagnosis is based essentially on culture and the mycobacteria is identified by PCR. We highlight the importance of investigating atypical mycobacteriosis when faced with granulomatous lesions associated with a history of invasive procedures.

Active and latent tuberculosis in Brazilian correctional facilities: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Tuberculosis (TB) rates among prisoners are more than 20 times that of the general population in Brazil, yet there are limited data available to facilitate the development of effective interventions in this high-transmission setting. We aimed to assess risk factors for TB infection and evaluate the yield of mass screening for active disease among inmates. METHODS: We administered a questionnaire and tuberculin skin test (TST) to a population-based sample of inmates from 12 prisons in Central-West Brazil and collected sera for HIV testing and two sputum samples for smear microscopy and culture from participants reporting a cough of any duration. Hierarchical Poisson regression models were used to evaluate factors associated with latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI). RESULTS: We recruited 3,380 inmates, of which 2,861 (84.6%) were males from 8 prisons, and 519 (15.4%) were females from 4 prisons. Among the 1,020 (30%) subjects who reported a cough, we obtained sputum from 691 (68%) and identified 31 cases of active TB for a point prevalence of 917 (95% CI, 623-1302) per 100,000 prisoners. Evaluation of the two sputum smear samples failed to identify 74% of the TB cases, and 29% of the cases reported less than 2 weeks of symptoms. Obtaining a second culture identified an additional 7 (24%) cases. The prevalences of LTBI were 22.5% and 11.7% for male and female prisoners, respectively and duration of incarceration (in years) was associated with LTBI in male and female in the multivariable model (1.04, 95% CI, 1.01-1.07 and 1.34, 95% CI, 1.06-1.70, respectively). The prevalence of LTBI is 8.6% among newly incarcerated inmates, among whom LTBI prevalence significantly increased by 5% with each year of incarceration. CONCLUSIONS: Although the overall LTBI prevalence among inmates in Central-West Brazil is low, tuberculosis incidence is high (>1,800/100,00), likely due to the high force of infection among a largely susceptible inmate population. Efforts to reduce transmission in prisons may require mass screening for active TB, utilizing sputum culture in case-detection protocols.

Hepatitis B virus infection in a population exposed to occupational hazards: firefighters of a metropolitan region in central Brazil.

INTRODUCTION: By the nature of their activities, firefighters are exposed to a high risk of contracting hepatitis B virus (HBV) as most of the Fire Brigade occurrences in Campo Grande, State of Mato Grosso do Sul (MS), Brazil, are related to the rescue of victims of traffic accidents and the transportation of clinical and psychiatric emergencies. The aim of this study was to investigate the seroepidemiological profile of HBV infection in firefighters from the City of Campo Grande, central Brazil. METHODS: The research involved 308 firefighters. After giving written consent, they were interviewed and blood was collected for the detection of HBsAg, anti-HBs and total anti-HBc of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). RESULTS: The participants had an average of 36.4 years of age (SD ± 6.5), being 89.9% male. Blood tests revealed 6.5% of seropositivity for hepatitis B (HB) infection (n=20), and 1% for HbsAg. Isolated anti-HBs markers, indicative of vaccine immunity, were found in 66.9% of the participants and 28.2% were susceptible to infection. With regard to risk factors for HB infection, multivariate regression analysis showed a statistically significant association with length of service; and prevalence was higher in individuals with over 20 years of service. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of HB found among the firefighters was low and length of time in the profession was found to be a risk factor. Non-occupational risk factors did not influence the occurrence of HB infection in the population studied.