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BMJ Open Jun 2024In 2016, WHO estimated there were roughly 374 million new infections among adults of the following four curable sexually transmitted infections (STIs): chlamydia...
Standardised protocol for a prospective international multicentre clinical-based evaluation of point-of-care tests for the screening of genital and extragenital chlamydial and gonococcal infections in men who have sex with men and for the screening of genital chlamydial, gonococcal and infections...
INTRODUCTION
In 2016, WHO estimated there were roughly 374 million new infections among adults of the following four curable sexually transmitted infections (STIs): chlamydia (caused by (CT)), gonorrhoea ( (NG)), syphilis () and trichomoniasis ( (TV)). Accurate point-of-care tests (POCTs) for screening of genital and extragenital CT, NG and TV infections are of great value and have been developed during recent decade. Several tests are commercially available and have shown encouraging performance compared with 'gold-standard' reference tests in laboratory-based studies. However, there is limited data on their clinical performance, including at the POC. Key populations, such as men who have sex with men (MSM), are at higher risk of these STIs at genital and extragenital sites and these STIs are often asymptomatic, especially in extragenital sites and in women. We will conduct a clinical-based evaluation to assess the performance characteristics and acceptability to end-users of molecular-based diagnostic technology for POC/near patient use of the Xpert CT/NG (Cepheid, Sunnyvale, California, USA) test for screening of genital, anorectal and pharyngeal CT and NG infections in MSM and the Xpert CT/NG and Xpert TV (Cepheid, Sunnyvale, California, USA) for screening of genital CT, NG and TV among women at risk for these STIs compared with gold-standard reference nucleic acid amplification tests. This master protocol outlines the overall research approach that will be used in seven countries.
METHOD AND ANALYSES
Consecutive MSM and women at risk presenting at the clinical sites in high, and low- and middle-income countries will be enrolled. The POCTs to be evaluated are Xpert CT/NG and Xpert TV. All procedures will be carried out by trained healthcare staff and tests performed in strict accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. The sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values for each POCT will be calculated. The study is ongoing with recruitment expected to be completed in all countries by mid-2022 to late-2022.
ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION
Prior to enrolment, this core protocol was independently peer-reviewed and approved by the research project review panel (RP2) of the WHO Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research and by the WHO Ethics Review Committee (ERC). The core protocol has been slightly adapted accordingly to individual countries and adaptations approved by both RP2 and ERC, as well as all relevant institutional review boards at each participating site. Results will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals and presented at relevant national/international conferences.
Topics: Humans; Male; Female; Chlamydia Infections; Gonorrhea; Point-of-Care Testing; Prospective Studies; Homosexuality, Male; Mass Screening; Trichomonas vaginalis; Sexually Transmitted Diseases; Trichomonas Vaginitis; Multicenter Studies as Topic; Sensitivity and Specificity; Adult; Point-of-Care Systems
PubMed: 38885995
DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-073565 -
Forensic Science International Jul 2024Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) infections are the most common bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs) worldwide. These STIs are...
BACKGROUND
Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) infections are the most common bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs) worldwide. These STIs are frequently asymptomatic, which often delays diagnosis and treatment with the risk of serious long-term complications. Current French recommendations call for targeted screening of populations considered to be at risk, including victims of sexual assault. However, no recent data on the prevalence of these STIs in this population are available in France. The aim of this study was therefore to determine the prevalence of CT/NG infections among victims of sexual assault attending three Clinical Forensic Units (CFUs).
METHODS
We retrospectively reviewed the forensic records of patients aged over 12 years reporting a sexual assault and referred between January 1, 2020 and December 31, 2021 to the CFU of Montpellier, Angers or Saint-Denis de La Réunion. Patients who had been screened for CT and NG infections were included.
RESULTS
341 alleged victims of sexual assault (324 women, 17 men, median age = 23 years) were screened for CT/NG STIs during the inclusion period (Montpellier, n=196; Angers, n=63; Saint-Denis, n=82). The median time between the sexual assault and the examination was 1 day. CT and NG were detected in 28 patients (8.2 %) and 8 patients (2.3 %) respectively, with no men tested positive. Positive results concerned genital samples, except for two CT-positive anorectal samples and one NG-positive oropharyngeal sample. Two patients (0.6 %) were co-infected with CT/NG. The overall prevalence of CT/NG STIs was 10.0 % and was higher in the 18-24 age group, reaching 13.2 % for CT.
CONCLUSIONS
This multicenter study confirms the high prevalence of CT/NG STIs in victims of sexual assault, and the vulnerability of the youngest age groups to these infections. Systematic screening for CT/NG STIs at the time of the forensic examination is the key to early diagnosis and effective treatment to prevent transmission and subsequent complications in these patients.
Topics: Humans; Female; France; Male; Gonorrhea; Chlamydia Infections; Retrospective Studies; Adult; Prevalence; Crime Victims; Young Adult; Chlamydia trachomatis; Adolescent; Neisseria gonorrhoeae; Sex Offenses; Middle Aged; Child; Forensic Medicine
PubMed: 38810590
DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2024.112070 -
Frontiers in Microbiology 2024Hemorrhoids are a common ailment that can cause significant disruptions to one's daily life. While some researchers have speculated about a potential link between...
Hemorrhoids are a common ailment that can cause significant disruptions to one's daily life. While some researchers have speculated about a potential link between hemorrhoid development and gut microbes, there is currently insufficient evidence to support this claim. In this study, we collected samples from 60 hemorrhoid patients and analyzed the composition and characteristics of microbiomes in hemorrhoids. PCoA results revealed distinct differences between the microbiomes of hemorrhoids, skin-originated microbiomes, and gut microbes, highlighting the complex nature of hemorrhoidal microbiomes. The distribution characteristics of suggest that the skin microbiome influences the microbiome of hemorrhoids. Additionally, we observed higher levels of in two cases of thrombosed hemorrhoids compared to non-thrombosed hemorrhoids. This finding suggests that may play a crucial role in the development of thrombosed hemorrhoids.
PubMed: 38803377
DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1329976 -
JPMA. the Journal of the Pakistan... May 2024Along with infecting hepatocytes, the Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is also a lymphotropic virus. Chronic HCV infection can mutate the Bcl2, a proto-oncogene that inhibits...
Along with infecting hepatocytes, the Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is also a lymphotropic virus. Chronic HCV infection can mutate the Bcl2, a proto-oncogene that inhibits apoptosis. This causes continuous stimulation of B lymphocytes, which results in clonal growth of these immunoglobulin-producing cells. In Western countries, there is a well-documented link between HCV and lymphoproliferative illness. HCV and Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) have been found to be significantly correlated in Europe, Japan, and the southern United States. There, however, has been no association found in central and northern Europe, the northwestern United States, and some Asian countries. A literature deficit exists in South Asia about the incidence of HCV infection in lymphoma patients. Here, the first documented instance of Diffuse Large B-cell NHL (germinal center type) is reported in a 35-year-old patient. The patient presented to the outpatient department at Ruth KM Pfau, Civil Hospital Karachi, in July of 2022, with the chief complaints of altered bowel habits due to involvement of the anorectal junction and concomitant infection by Helicobacter pylori with a prior history of HCV infection.
Topics: Humans; Helicobacter Infections; Lymphoma, Large B-Cell, Diffuse; Coinfection; Helicobacter pylori; Adult; Male; Hepatitis C; Proto-Oncogene Mas; Hepatitis C, Chronic; Vincristine; Doxorubicin; Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols; Rituximab
PubMed: 38783451
DOI: 10.47391/JPMA.9458 -
Cureus Apr 2024Jejunoileal atresia, a common cause of neonatal intestinal obstruction, typically manifests shortly after birth. This case report highlights a rare instance of a late...
Jejunoileal atresia, a common cause of neonatal intestinal obstruction, typically manifests shortly after birth. This case report highlights a rare instance of a late preterm female neonate presenting with type 4 jejunoileal atresia along with proximal rectal atresia, an exceedingly uncommon combination. Initial symptoms included bilious emesis and failure to pass meconium, leading to surgical correction of jejunoileal atresia. However, postoperative complications, including vomiting and jaundice, prompted further investigation, revealing rectal atresia during a fluoroscopic study on day 29. Subsequent surgery was required to address the rectal atresia, resulting in additional challenges such as short bowel syndrome and infection. The complexity of diagnosis and management underscores the importance of thorough evaluation of the lower gastrointestinal tract in neonates with jejunoileal atresia to prevent misdiagnosis and reduce the need for multiple surgeries. Rectal atresia, which is a very rare anorectal abnormality, in combination with jejunoileal atresia is considered an incredibly unusual, exceptionally unique case; as to our knowledge, no similar presentation had previously occurred. Prompt identification and simultaneous treatment of both conditions can help mitigate complications, minimize the risk of necrosis and perforation, and improve overall outcomes. Comprehensive management strategies that encompass thorough diagnostic evaluation and coordinated surgical interventions are crucial for optimizing the care of neonates with complex intestinal malformations, ensuring timely resolution of symptoms, and reducing long-term morbidity.
PubMed: 38741810
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.58141 -
Euro Surveillance : Bulletin Europeen... May 2024BackgroundIn France, lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) testing switched from universal to selective testing in 2016.AimTo investigate changes in LGV-affected populations,...
BackgroundIn France, lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) testing switched from universal to selective testing in 2016.AimTo investigate changes in LGV-affected populations, we performed a nationwide survey based on temporarily reinstated universal LGV testing from 2020 to 2022.MethodsEach year, during three consecutive months, laboratories voluntarily sent anorectal -positive samples from men and women to the National Reference Centre for bacterial sexually transmitted infections. We collected patients' demographic, clinical and biological data. Genovars L of were detected using real-time PCR. In LGV-positive samples, the A gene was sequenced.ResultsIn 2020, LGV positivity was 12.7% (146/1,147), 15.2% (138/907) in 2021 and 13.3% (151/1,137) in 2022 (p > 0.05). It occurred predominantly in men who have sex with men (MSM), with rare cases among transgender women. The proportion of HIV-negative individuals was higher than that of those living with HIV. Asymptomatic rectal LGV increased from 36.1% (44/122) in 2020 to 52.4% (66/126) in 2022 (p = 0.03). Among users of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), LGV positivity was 13.8% (49/354) in 2020, 15.6% (38/244) in 2021 and 10.9% (36/331) in 2022, and up to 50% reported no anorectal symptoms. Diversity of the LGV genotypes in the Paris region increased during the survey period. An unexpectedly high number of genotype L1 variant was reported in 2022.ConclusionIn rectal samples from MSM in France, LGV positivity was stable, but the proportion of asymptomatic cases increased in 2022. This underscores the need of universal LGV testing and the importance of continuous surveillance.
Topics: Humans; Lymphogranuloma Venereum; Male; Chlamydia trachomatis; Homosexuality, Male; France; Adult; Female; Middle Aged; Surveys and Questionnaires; Chlamydia Infections; Young Adult; Rectum; Prevalence; Sexual and Gender Minorities
PubMed: 38726697
DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.ES.2024.29.19.2300520 -
International Journal of Infectious... May 2024Antimicrobial resistance poses a considerable threat in high-antimicrobial-consumption populations, such as men who have sex with men (MSM) taking HIV pre-exposure...
OBJECTIVES
Antimicrobial resistance poses a considerable threat in high-antimicrobial-consumption populations, such as men who have sex with men (MSM) taking HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis. While the ResistAZM trial found no increase in macrolide resistance genes in MSM with gonorrhea after azithromycin treatment, the MORDOR trial observed an increase in these genes after mass azithromycin distribution. We hypothesized that this could be due to saturation of the resistome. To test this hypothesis, we compared the abundance of macrolide resistance determinants in anorectal samples between the baselines of the two trials.
METHODS
Shotgun metagenome reads from the anorectal baseline samples from the ResistAZM (n = 42) and MORDOR (n = 30) trials were analyzed using AMRPlusPlus. Nonhost reads were mapped to the MEGARes database to detect antibiotic resistance genes (ARG). Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) was normalized using cumulative sum scaling, and ARG abundance was estimated.
RESULTS
Macrolide, lincosamides, and streptogramins determinants were approximately 10-fold more abundant in the ResistAZM than the MORDOR samples (P ≤ 0.001).
CONCLUSION
The findings are compatible with our hypothesis. Thus, in populations with high-antimicrobial use, the relationship between antimicrobial consumption and AMR may be diminished due to saturation. These findings are vital for future studies investigating the resistogencity of novel interventions, such as doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis, in populations with high preceding consumption of antimicrobials.
PubMed: 38703812
DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2024.107082 -
World Journal of Clinical Cases Apr 2024Rectocutaneous fistulae are common. The infection originates within the anal glands and subsequently extends into adjacent regions, ultimately resulting in fistula...
BACKGROUND
Rectocutaneous fistulae are common. The infection originates within the anal glands and subsequently extends into adjacent regions, ultimately resulting in fistula development. Cellular angiofibroma (CAF), also known as an angiomyofibroblastoma-like tumor, is a rare benign soft tissue neoplasm predominantly observed in the scrotum, perineum, and inguinal area in males and in the vulva in females. We describe the first documented case CAF that developed within a rectocutaneous fistula and manifested as a perineal mass.
CASE SUMMARY
In the outpatient setting, a 52-year-old male patient presented with a 2-year history of a growing perineal mass, accompanied by throbbing pain and minor scrotal abrasion. Physical examination revealed a soft, well-defined, non-tender mass at the left buttock that extended towards the perineum, without a visible opening. The initial assessment identified a soft tissue tumor, and the laboratory data were within normal ranges. Abdominal and pelvic computed tomography (CT) revealed swelling of the abscess cavity that was linked to a rectal cutaneous fistula, with a track-like lesion measuring 6 cm × 0.7 cm in the left perineal region and attached to the left rectum. Rectoscope examination found no significant inner orifices. A left medial gluteal incision revealed a thick-walled mass, which was excised along with the extending tract, and curettage was performed. Histopathological examination confirmed CAF diagnosis. The patient achieved total resolution during follow-up assessments and did not require additional hospitalization.
CONCLUSION
CT imaging supports perineal lesion diagnosis and management. Perineal angiofibromas, even with a cutaneous fistula, can be excised transperineally.
PubMed: 38660078
DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v12.i10.1778 -
Cureus Mar 2024Giant condyloma acuminata (GCA) is a rare, locally aggressive manifestation of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, typically affecting the anorectal area. Patients...
Giant condyloma acuminata (GCA) is a rare, locally aggressive manifestation of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, typically affecting the anorectal area. Patients with GCA often have a poor prognosis due to the high risk of malignant transformation. In this case report, we present a 39-year-old man with HIV who developed progressive and refractory anorectal GCA. Despite initially non-cancerous pathology results, there were concerns regarding a malignant component to the mass. Multidisciplinary discussions led to the decision to pursue definitive radiation therapy. This case report and review of the literature highlight the role of radiation in the management of GCA and the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in the treatment of complex cases.
PubMed: 38659525
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.56882 -
Journal of Hematology Apr 2024Anorectal infections in neutropenic leukemia patients are a significant and potentially life-threatening complication. The pathogenesis of this condition is not entirely... (Review)
Review
Anorectal infections in neutropenic leukemia patients are a significant and potentially life-threatening complication. The pathogenesis of this condition is not entirely understood and believed to be multifactorial, including mucosal injury as a result of cytotoxic drugs, profound neutropenia and impaired host defense. Establishing an early diagnosis is key and often made clinically on the basis of signs and symptoms, but also from imaging studies demonstrating perianal inflammation or fluid collection. The management of anorectal infections in neutropenic leukemia patients is not straightforward, as there are no well-conducted studies on this entity. This review seeks to provide a framework into the pathophysiology and clinical presentation of anorectal infections in neutropenic leukemia patients, propose a diagnostic approach and to discuss controversies in the management of this condition.
PubMed: 38644983
DOI: 10.14740/jh1251