A proposal for changes to the European Union syphilis surveillance case definition using evidence from evaluations in Ireland.
Euro Surveill
; 24(45)2019 Nov.
Article
de En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-31718743
ABSTRACT
Syphilis remains a disease of public health importance, with considerable health effects if not treated. Concurrent infection with syphilis and untreated HIV facilitates HIV transmission. The incidence of syphilis in Europe has been increasing, particularly among men who have sex with men (MSM) and in MSM with HIV. However, there is heterogeneity among countries in the case definition used for syphilis and in reported syphilis notification rates. In Ireland, we have undertaken a number of refinements of the national syphilis surveillance system since 2014, including refinement of the laboratory thresholds for notification (rapid plasma reagin 116 and/or positive IgM). This article outlines the steps taken and some of the challenges we faced. Our current case definition now accurately reflects the epidemiology of syphilis in Ireland and our current surveillance provides timely information for action, while not reducing the sensitivity of the system too much. For countries where surveillance is driven mainly by laboratory reporting and where obtaining clinical details is challenging, these thresholds for notification may be a pragmatic solution.
Mots clés
Texte intégral:
1
Collection:
01-internacional
Base de données:
MEDLINE
Sujet principal:
Syphilis
/
Infections à VIH
/
Surveillance de la population
/
Homosexualité masculine
/
Notification des maladies
Type d'étude:
Diagnostic_studies
/
Incidence_studies
/
Prognostic_studies
/
Screening_studies
Limites:
Adult
/
Humans
/
Male
Pays/Région comme sujet:
Europa
Langue:
En
Journal:
Euro Surveill
Sujet du journal:
DOENCAS TRANSMISSIVEIS
Année:
2019
Type de document:
Article
Pays d'affiliation:
Irlande