Resistencia antibiótica y aspectos clínicos de Neisseria gonorrhoeae anorrectal en un hospital de CABA, Argentina / Antimicrobial resistance and clinical aspects in anorectal Neisseria gonorrhoeae in a hospital in CABA, Argentina

La infección por Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) es considerada de alta prioridad en salud pública, por su capacidad para desarrollar resistencia a la mayoría de los antibióticos empleados para tratarla. La presentación anorrectal suele ser asintomática y frecuente en hombres que tienen sexo con hombres (HSH). En Argentina, se recomienda terapia antibiótica dual (ceftriaxona+azitromicina/doxiciclina) como primera línea empírica. Este estudio observacional y retrospectivo se realizó para evaluar el porcentaje de positividad de NG anorrectal, el perfil de sensibilidad a penicilina, tetraciclina, ciprofloxacina, ceftriaxona, cefixima y azitromicina, así como los aspectos clínicos-epidemiológicos de los pacientes atendidos entre 20/10/2015 y 20/03/2020 en consultorios coloproctológicos de un hospital público. Se detectaron 55/436 hisopados rectales positivos para NG (13%). El 95% era HSH y 71%, VIH+. En 18/55 NG fue la única infección. Las co-infecciones más frecuentes: HPV (38%) y C. trachomatis (35%). La sensibilidad a cefalosporinas de espectro extendido (CEE) y a azitromicina fueron 100% y 98%, respectivamente. Se observó la emergencia local de los primeros cinco aislamientos de NG anorrectal con sensibilidad reducida (SR) a CEE, el primer aislamiento con categoría no-sensible a azitromicina y otro con SR a azitromicina concomitantemente con SR a CEE. Aunque el uso de terapia empírica dual sigue siendo adecuado para nuestra institución, se observó la emergencia de aislamientos con SR y NS a las drogas de primera línea, evidenciando la importancia de la vigilancia epidemiológica a nivel local para definir los tratamientos empíricos.

Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) infection is considered a high public health priority because of its ability to develop resistance to most of the antibiotics used to treat it.The anorectal presentation is generally asymptomatic and frequent in men who have sex with men (MSM). In Argentina, dual therapy (ceftriaxone+azithromycin/doxycycline) is recommended as first line empiric therapy.This observational and retrospective study was conducted to evaluate the percentage of anorectal NG positivity, the susceptibility profile to penicillin, tetracycline, ciprofloxacin, ceftriaxone, cefixime and azithromycin, as well as the clinical-epidemiological aspects of patients attended between 20/10/2015 and 20/03/2020 in coloproctology of a public hospital.We detected 55/436 positive rectal swabs for NG (13%). 95% were MSM and 71% were PLHIV. In 18/55 NG was the only infection. The most frequent co-infections: HPV (38%) and C. trachomatis (35%).Susceptibility to extended-spectrum cephalosporins (ESCs) and azithromycin was 100% and 98%, respectively. Local emergence of the first five anorectal NG isolates with decreased susceptibility (DS) to ESCs, the first isolate with nonsusceptible category to azithromycin and another with DS to azithromycin concomitantly with DS to ESCs were observed.Although the use of dual empirical therapy continues to be adequate for our institution, the emergence of isolates with DS and NS to first-line drugs was observed, evidencing the importance of epidemiological surveillance at the local level to define empirical treatments

Viruela símica en un paciente con vih: reporte de caso / Monkeypox in a patient with HIV: case report

RESUMEN La viruela símica es una enfermedad zoonótica endémica en algunas zonas de África; desde mayo del 2022 se confirmaron múltiples reportes de viruela símica (VS) en países no endémicos. Se presenta el caso de un paciente con antecedente de VIH con exantemas en diversas regiones del cuerpo, con mayor concentración en la región glútea, asociado a adenopatías cervicales y proctitis infecciosa. Se procedió a la toma de la muestra de las lesiones dermatológicas para el estudio molecular de reacción en cadena de la polimerasa en tiempo real (RT-PCR), que confirmó el diagnóstico de VS. La infección por Treponema pallidum y Neisseria gonorrhoeae se identificó mediante serología y cultivo de secreción anal, respectivamente. Se aplicó tratamiento con antibióticos específicos para gonorrea y sífilis, y la VS respondió favorablemente a la terapia sintomática e inmunomoduladora.

ABSTRACT Monkeypox (Mpox) is a zoonotic disease, endemic in some areas of Africa. But since May 2022, multiple cases of Mpox have been reported in non-endemic countries. We present the case of a patient with a history of HIV, as well as rash in several areas of the body, mostly in the gluteal region, associated with cervical lymphadenopathy and infectious proctitis. Diagnosis was confirmed by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) of skin lesion samples. Treponema pallidum and Neisseria gonorrhoeae infection was confirmed by serology and rectal discharge culture, respectively. The patient received antibiotics specific for gonorrhea and syphilis and his condition improved due to symptomatic and immunomodulatory therapy.

Síndrome de Stajano, Fitz-Hugh, Curtis. Descripción de un caso clínico y puesta al día de los conocimientos / Fitz-Hugh Curtis Syndrome. Description of a clinical case and knowledge update / Síndrome de Stajano, Fitz-Hugh, Curtis. Descrição de um caso clínico e atualização do conhecimento

El síndrome de Stajano, Fitz-Hugh, Curtis es una rara presentación clínica de las infecciones genitales altas, caracterizada por dolor en hipocondrio derecho, escasa sintomatología pelviana, y adherencias hepatofrénicas en forma de "cuerdas de violín". Esta rara presentación clínica lleva a frecuentes diagnósticos tardíos o erróneos, como colecistitis, apendicitis, urolitiasis o abscesos hepatofrénicos. A propósito de un caso clínico, se realiza una revisión histórica y cronológica de los conocimientos y publicaciones que se fueron sucediendo en el tiempo, de esta presentación clínica tan particular.

The Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome is a rare clinical presentation of upper genital infections, characterized by pain in the right hypochondrium, few pelvic symptoms, and "violin strings" hepatophrenic adhesions. This unusual clinical presentation leads to frequent late or erroneous diagnoses, such as cholecystitis, appendicitis, urolithiasis or hepatophrenic abscesses. Based on the clinical case presented, a historical and chronological review of knowledge and publications over time, on this particular clinical presentation was conducted.

A síndrome de Stajano, Fitz-Hugh, Curtis é uma apresentação clínica rara de infecções genitais superiores, caracterizada por dor no quadrante superior direito, poucos sintomas pélvicos e aderências hepatofrênicas em forma de "cordas de violino". Esta rara apresentaçap leva a diagnósticos tardios ou errôneos, como colecistite, apendicite, urolitíase ou abscessos hepatofrênicos. Apresenta-se um caso clínico e uma revisão histórica e cronológica do conhecimento e das publicações ocorridas ao longo do tempo, desta apresentação clínica tão particular.

Aspectos epidemiológicos de las infecciones de transmisión sexual en mujeres de la provincia de Santiago de Cuba / Epidemiologic aspects of sexually transmitted infections in women from the province of Santiago de Cuba

Introducción: Las infecciones de transmisión sexual constituyen un relevante problema de salud a nivel mundial; particularmente afectan la salud sexual de las mujeres ocasionando dolencias y efectos muy negativos, como la infertilidad, los embarazos ectópicos y el cáncer cervicouterino. Objetivo: Describir las características epidemiológicas de las infecciones de transmisión sexual relevantes en mujeres de Santiago de Cuba. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo y retrospectivo en la provincia de Santiago de Cuba de la población femenina que presentó infecciones de transmisión sexual durante el período 2007-2017, detallando cada afección según año, municipio, edad, entre otras variables de interés. Asimismo, se analizaron la frecuencia, las tasas de incidencia, las tendencias y las variaciones temporales. Resultados: Las entidades clínicas predominantes fueron el síndrome de dolor pélvico y la secreción vaginal, en tanto, las menos frecuentes resultaron ser el herpes genital y la blenorragia. En el análisis por cada tipo de infección se observó una mayor afectación en féminas de edades jóvenes. Conclusiones: Las infecciones de transmisión sexual constituyen un serio problema de salud en mujeres de la provincia de Santiago de Cuba, que deviene causa importante de embarazos ectópicos y esterilidad. Sin embargo, se debe mejorar la vigilancia epidemiológica de estas enfermedades, pues existe un marcado subregistro de algunas y, por ende, una inadecuada atención, sobre todo en el sexo femenino.

Introduction: Sexually transmitted infections constitute an outstanding health problem worldwide; they particularly affect the sexual health of women causing ailments and very negative effects as infertility, ectopic pregnancies and cervical uterine cancer. Objective: To describe the epidemiologic characteristics of the outstanding sexually transmitted infections in women from Santiago de Cuba. Methods: A descriptive and retrospective study was carried out in the province of Santiago de Cuba in the female population that presented sexually transmitted infections during 2007-2017, with details of each affection according to year, municipality, age, among other variables of interest. Also, frequency, rates of incidence, tendencies and temporary variations were analyzed. Results: The predominant clinical entities were the pelvic pain syndrome and vaginal secretion, as long as, the less frequent were genital herpes and blennorrhagia. In the analysis for each type of infection a higher affectation was observed in young females. Conclusions: Sexually transmitted infections constitute a serious health problem in women from the province of Santiago de Cuba that becomes important cause of ectopic pregnancies and sterility. However, the epidemiologic surveillance of these diseases should be improved, because there is a marked subrecord of some of them and, therefore, an inadequate care, mainly in the female sex.

Prevalence and antimicrobial resistance profiles of Neisseria gonorrhea and Chlamydia trachomatis isolated from individuals attending STD clinics in Kampala, Uganda

Background: Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) management in sub-Saharan Africa is syndromic but molecular diagnostics provide quicker, sensitive diagnosis and treatment. Effective STD control hinges on identification and treatment of infected persons and sexual partner contact tracing. Objectives: This study assessed feasibility of using the Xpert CT/NG test to identify prevalent Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhea (NG) infections among STD clinic attendees and their sexual partners and tested for antimicrobial resistance for N. gonorrhea. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at 4 outpatient STD clinics in Kampala, Uganda from February 2019 to October 2019. Participants received a syndromic diagnosis, were tested for NG and CT, as well as their sexual partners. Urine (men) and high vaginal swabs (women) were collected, examined using Xpert CT/NG assay. A total of 79 participants were enrolled at baseline of whom 25 had CT/NG. 21 partners of infected baseline participants and 7 partners of the 21 primary partners were enrolled. Results: The mean age of the reported sexual partners was 26 (18-43) years. The prevalence of NG was 25% at baseline and 18 % for CT. Nine (11.4%) people were dually infected. Men were more likely to have NG (p<0.001) at multivariable level. Two participants tested HIV-1 positive. On microbiological culture, 8 samples (2.5%) grew NG, and all were resistant to penicillin, ciprofloxacin. For CT, we found a preponderance of the F-serovar in this population. Conclusion: The most prevalent organism was Neisseria gonorrhea. Generally, the prevalence of CT and NG was high. Infection proportions increased among primary partners, particularly women. Etiologic testing without partner tracing and treatment may underestimate burden of CT/NG in this population and contribute to re-infection

Neisseria gonorrhoeae: un patógeno díscolo: conceptos microbiológicos, resistencia a antimicrobianos y su vigilancia epidemiológica en Chile / Neisseria gonorrhoeae: a wayward pathogen: microbiological concepts, antimicrobial resistance and its epidemiological surveillance in Chile

Resumen Neisseria gonorrhoeae es un diplococo gramnegativo, no móvil, esporulado, aerobio o anaerobio facultativo, catalasa y oxidasa positivas. Las infecciones de transmisión sexual causadas por este microorganismo son un problema de salud pública definido como tal desde el siglo XIX, representando una gran amenaza para la salud humana debido a la su alta prevalencia y multirresistencia a antimicrobianos. En las últimas décadas han aumentado los reportes de cepas resistentes a penicilina, fluoroquinolonas, sulfonamidas, tetraciclina, macrólidos, y más recientemente a cefalosporinas y azitromicina. Tal panorama ha generado preocupación a nivel mundial, debido al aumento de casos de gonorrea asociados a cepas multirresistentes. En Chile se desarrolló desde el 2010 hasta el 2018 el Programa de Vigilancia de N. gonorrhoeae a nivel nacional con el objeto de caracterizar esta infección en las regiones y registrar la resistencia a los antimicrobianos. Esta revisión presenta un análisis sistemático bibliográfico, actualizado, de los principales aspectos de este microorganismo, su respuesta a antimicrobianos, y entrega pautas de diagnóstico y tratamiento, a la espera de avanzar en la comprensión del mecanismo molecular y las interacciones metabólicas e inmunológicas que determinan la infección, con miras a diseñar una vacuna efectiva.

Abstract Neisseria gonorrhoeae is a nonmotile, sporulated, aerobic or facultative anaerobic gram-negative diplococcus, catalase and oxidase positive. Sexually transmitted infections caused by this microorganism were established as public health problem since the 19th century, representing a great threat to human health due to its high prevalence and multi-resistance to antimicrobials. In recent decades, reports of strains resistant to penicillin, fluoroquinolones, sulfonamides, tetracycline, macrolides, and more recently to cephalosporins and azithromycin have increased. Such a panorama has generated concern worldwide, due to the increase in cases of gonorrhea associated with multi-resistant strains. In Chile, from 2010 to 2018, the National Surveillance Program for N. gonorrhoeae was developed in order to characterize this infection in the regions and record antimicrobial resistance. This review presents an updated, systematic bibliographic analysis of the main aspects of this microorganism, its response to antimicrobials, and provides diagnostic and treatment guidelines, while waiting to advance in the understanding of the molecular mechanism and the metabolic and immunological interactions that determine infection, with a view to designing an effective vaccine.

Sexually transmitted infections among women living with HIV in a Brazilian city

ABSTRACT Background: Clinical improvements following highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) may increase high-risk behaviors resulting in sexually transmitted infections (STI). Optimism related to the success of HAART in slowing disease progression, reducing viral load, and improving health status might be important factors for increasing sexual risk behaviors such as less use of condoms. Objective: To determine the prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, syphilis, hepatitis B and C, high-risk HPV, and cervical cytological abnormalities among women living with HIV (WLHIV) who attended a Reference Center for STI/AIDS in Brazil. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 151 WLHIV attending an STI Clinic in Vitória city, Brazil. A structured questionnaire, including demographic, behavioral, and clinical information, was used for data collection. Serological tests for HIV, syphilis, hepatitis C and B, CD4 counts, and viral load determination were performed. Cervical samples were collected for cytology and real-time PCR for HPV, Chlamydia, and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Results: In this study, 59% of women had at least one diagnosed STI at the time of the first clinic visit; 31% had clinical forms of anogenital HPV, 10% syphilis, 8%Neisseria gonorrhoeae, 5.0% trichomoniasis, 3% Chlamydia trachomatis, 1% hepatitis B, and 1% hepatitis C; 6.7% of the women presented with cervical cytological abnormalities. Furthermore, 46.3% of women had HR-HPV, and 17.6% had HPV 16/18. Only 5% of the women had a CD4 count <200 cells/mm3, 61.6% had undetectable HIV viral load, and 81.3% were currently on HAART. Conclusion: A high prevalence of STI and HR-HPV infections were observed among HIV-infected women in this investigation. Prevention programs need to focus on counseling WLHIV and their regular partners with focused interventions such as couples counseling and education programs.

Brazilian protocol for sexually transmitted infections, 2020: pelvic inflammatory disease

Abstract Pelvic Inflammatory Disease is a topic included in the Clinical Protocol and Therapeutic Guidelines for Comprehensive Care for People with Sexually Transmitted Infections, published by the Brazilian Ministry of Health in 2020. Pelvic inflammatory disease is an upper female genital tract acute infection due to canalicular spread of endogenous cervicovaginal microorganisms and especially the sexually transmitted microorganisms. Standing out among the etiological agents involved are Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. The main sequelae are chronic pelvic pain, infertility, and ectopic pregnancy. Clinical diagnosis is the most important practical approach. Antibiotic treatment must start immediately after the clinical suspicion. Guidelines for health service managers and health professionals on diagnostic tests, treatment, follow-up, counseling, notification, handling sexual partners and special populations are described. Given the increased availability of the molecular biology techniques in Brazil, C. trachomatis and N. gonorrhoeae screening are recommended as a disease prevention strategy.

Infecções sexualmente transmissíveis em mulheres afrodescendentes de comunidades quilombolas no Brasil: prevalência e fatores associados / Sexually transmissible infections in African-descendant women in maroon communities in Brazil: prevalence and associated factors / Enfermedades de transmisión sexual en mujeres afrodescendientes de comunidades quilombolas en Brasil: prevalencia y factores asociados

Resumo: O objetivo do estudo foi estimar a prevalência de infecções sexualmente transmissíveis (IST) e fatores associados sobre mulheres quilombolas no Brasil. Trata-se de estudo transversal de base populacional com mulheres quilombolas no período de março de 2017 a janeiro de 2019. Utilizou-se um questionário com informações sociodemográficas, comportamentais e clínicas. Foi realizado exame ginecológico para coleta de células cervicais para citologia oncótica e para detecção de Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Trichomonas vaginalis e papilomavírus humano (HPV), por meio de teste de reação em cadeia pela polimerase. Foi realizado teste rápido para HIV e sífilis. O desfecho principal foi definido como a infecção por um ou mais agentes infecciosos de transmissão sexual. Para a análise, utilizou-se o teste do qui-quadrado e regressão logística hierárquica. De um total de 380 mulheres, 352 (92,6%) foram incluídas no estudo. A prevalência de, pelo menos, uma IST foi de 18,5% (IC95%: 14,76-22,85). A maior prevalência foi de 11,1% por HPV, seguido de 6,3% por T. vaginalis e de 4,3% por C. trachomatis. Não houve nenhum caso de N. gonorrhoeae. Para o HIV, a prevalência foi de 0,3%, e de sífilis foi de 4,3%. A citologia cervicovaginal estava alterada em 7,7%. A detecção de uma ou mais IST foi significativamente associada a idade entre 25 e 44 anos (OR = 2,33; IC95%: 1,05-5,18), a consumo de álcool (OR = 1,96; IC95%: 1,06-3,64), a resultado alterado da citologia (OR = 3,96; IC95%: 1,65-9,48) e a vaginose bacteriana (OR = 3,61; IC95%: 2,01-6,47). Em mulheres quilombolas houve elevada prevalência de uma ou mais IST, o que torna importante a elaboração de estratégias de prevenção direcionadas a essas mulheres.

Abstract: The study aimed to estimate the prevalence of sexually transmissible infections (STIs) and associated factors in women in quilombola (maroon) communities in Brazil. This was a population-based cross-sectional study of quilombola women from March 2017 to January 2019. A questionnaire was used with sociodemographic, behavioral, and clinical information. A gynecological examination was performed for the collection of uterine cervical cells for oncotic cytology and the detection of Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Trichomonas vaginalis, and human papillomavirus (HPV) via polymerase chain reaction. Rapid tests for HIV and syphilis were performed. The main outcome was defined as infection with one or more sexually transmissible pathogens. The analysis used chi-square test and hierarchical logistic regression. From a total of 380 women, 352 (92.6%) were included in the study. Prevalence of at least one STI was 18.5% (95%CI: 14.76-22.85). The highest prevalence was for HPV, with 11.1%, followed by 6.3% for T. vaginalis and 4.3% for C. trachomatis. There were no cases of N. gonorrhoeae. Prevalence was 0.3% for HIV and 4.3% for syphilis. Cervical-vaginal cytology was altered in 7.7% of the women. Detection of one or more STIs was significantly associated with age 25 to 44 years (OR = 2.33; 95%CI: 1.05-5.18), alcohol consumption (OR = 1.96; 95%CI: 1.06-3.64), altered cervical cytology (OR = 3.96; 95%CI: 1.65-9.48), and bacterial vaginosis (OR = 3.61; 95%CI: 2.01-6.47). Quilombola women showed high prevalence of one or more STIs, emphasizing the importance of organizing prevention strategies targeted to these women.

Resumen: El objetivo del estudio fue estimar la prevalencia de enfermedades de transmisión sexual (ETS) y sus factores asociados en mujeres quilombolas en Brasil. Estudio transversal de base poblacional con mujeres quilombolas durante el período de marzo de 2017 a enero de 2019. Se utilizó un cuestionario con información sociodemográfica, comportamental y clínica. Se realizó un examen ginecológico, a fin de recoger células cervicales para la citología oncótica, así como para la detección de Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Trichomonas vaginalis, y virus del papiloma humano (VPH) mediante un test de reacción en cadena de la polimerasa. Se realizó un test rápido para VIH y sífilis. El resultado principal, se definió como infección por uno o más agentes infecciosos de transmisión sexual. Para el análisis, se utilizó el test de chi-cuadrado y regresión logística jerárquica. De un total de 380 mujeres, 352 (92,6%) se incluyeron en el estudio. La prevalencia de por lo menos una ETS fue de 18,5% (IC95%: 14,76-22,85). La mayor prevalencia fue por VPH 11,1%, seguida de 6,3% por T. vaginalis y 4,3% por C. trachomatis. No hubo casos de N. gonorrhoeae. Para el VIH, la prevalencia fue de 0,3% y de sífilis fue de 4,3%. La citología cérvico-vaginal estaba alterada en un 7,7%. La detección de una o más ETS estuvo significativamente asociada con la edad entre 25 a 44 años (OR = 2,33; IC95%: 1,05-5,18), el consumo de alcohol (OR = 1,96; IC95%: 1,06-3,64), resultado alterado de la citología (OR = 3,96; IC95%: 1,65-9,48) y vaginosis bacteriana (OR = 3,61; IC95%: 2,01-6,47). Las mujeres quilombolas presentaron una elevada prevalencia por una o más ETS, por lo que es importante la elaboración de estrategias de prevención dirigidas a estas mujeres.

Protocolo Brasileiro para Infecções Sexualmente Transmissíveis 2020: infecções que causam corrimento uretral / Brazilian Protocol for Sexually Transmitted Infections 2020: infections that cause urethral discharge / Protocolo Brasileño para Infecciones de Transmisión Sexual 2020: infecciones que causan secreción uretral

Este artigo aborda as infecções que causam corrimento uretral, tema que compõe o Protocolo Clínico e Diretrizes Terapêuticas para Atenção Integral às Pessoas com Infecções Sexualmente Transmissíveis, publicado pelo Ministério da Saúde do Brasil em 2020. Tal documento foi elaborado com base em evidências científicas e validado em discussões com especialistas. As uretrites, quando não tratadas de maneira correta, ou quando o microrganismo desenvolve resistência ao tratamento empregado, podem causar danos graves e até irreversíveis à saúde. Os níveis de resistência antimicrobiana que esses agentes têm desenvolvido são considerados uma emergência global em saúde pública. Neste artigo, são apresentados aspectos epidemiológicos e clínicos, recomendações sobre diagnóstico e tratamento e estratégias para as ações de vigilância, prevenção e controle das infecções que causam corrimento uretral, com a finalidade de contribuir com gestores e profissionais de saúde para a qualificação da assistência.

This article approach infections that cause urethral discharge, theme which is part of the Clinical Protocol and Therapeutic Guidelines for Comprehensive Care for People with Sexually Transmitted Infections, published by the Ministry of Health of Brazil in 2020. These guidelines were prepared based on scientific evidence and validated in discussions with experts. When urethritis is not treated correctly, or when the microorganism develops antimicrobial resistance, it can cause serious and even irreversible health damage. It is noteworthy that the high levels of antimicrobial resistance developed by pathogens that causes urethritis comprises a global emergency in public health. This article presents epidemiological and clinical aspects, recommendations on diagnostic and treatment, and strategies for surveillance, prevention and control actions of infections that cause urethral discharge, with the purpose of contributing with managers and health professionals to care qualification.

El artículo trata de las infecciones que causan secreción uretral, tema que hace parte del Protocolo Clínico y Directrices Terapéuticas para Atención Integral a Personas con Infecciones de Transmisión Sexual, publicado por el Ministerio de Salud de Brasil en 2020. Dicho documento se elaboró con base en evidencias científicas y se validó en discusiones con expertos. Las uretritis, cuando no tratadas correctamente o cuando el microorganismo desarrolla resistencia al tratamiento, puede ocasionar daños graves a la salud. Los niveles de resistencia antimicrobiana que estos agentes desarrollan son considerados una emergencia de salud pública. En este artículo, se presentan aspectos epidemiológicos y clínicos, recomendaciones para el diagnóstico y tratamiento y estrategias para acciones de monitoreo epidemiológico, prevención y control de las infecciones que causan secreción uretral, a fin de contribuir con gestores y personal de salud para la cualificación de la asistencia.

High prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae in Western French Guiana

ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to estimate the prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) infections in western French Guiana and to analyze associated factors with both infections. A retrospective study was conducted in a sexually transmitted infections clinic in 2017. Women (n = 338) were tested by real-time polymerase chain reaction for vaginal, anal and throat CT and NG infections. Men (n = 192) were evaluated using urine specimens. Socio-demographic and sexual behaviour data were collected by nurses with a structured questionnaire. The prevalence of CT and NG infections among women were 24.3% and 13.3%, respectively, and 12.0% and 7.3% among men. Women aged under 25 years had a higher risk of CT and NG infections than women aged 35 years or more. Another risk factor for CT infection was low educational level, and occasional unprotected sex for NG infection. CT and NG infections were associated with reporting symptoms among men. Very high prevalences of CT and NG infections among women and men were found, which suggest that a large-scale screening strategy should be implemented in French Guiana.

Prevalencia de Neisseria gonorrhoeae, en reclusos del Centro de Detención Preventiva de Arica / Prevalence of Neisseria gonorrhoeae, amongst inmates of the Preventive Reclusion Center in Arica

Resumen Introducción: Los/as trabajadores/as sexuales, personas con adicción a drogas, población de inicio sexual precoz y población penal son considerados los grupos de mayor riesgo de contraer infecciones de transmisión sexual (ITS). Objetivo: Determinar prevalencia de infección por Neisseria gonorrhoeae, en reclusos del Centro de Detención Preventiva (CDP) de la Región de Arica y Parinacota, Chile. Este estudio contó con la aprobación del Cómité Ético Científico de la Universidad de Tarapacá. Material y Método: Participaron 140 reclusos, que aceptaron ser parte del estudio en forma voluntaria y firmaron un consentimiento informado. Se tomó una muestra del meato uretral para pesquisa de N. gonorrhoeae y se aplicó una encuesta epidemiológica que consignó edad, consumo de drogas, hacinamiento, entre otros. Resultados: La prevalencia del agente fue de 16,4% en reclusos del CDP de Arica, resultado menor a lo reportado en otros estudios similares. Conclusiones: Conocer la realidad de la prevalencia de esta ITS y algunos factores de riesgo asociados a la situación de privación de la libertad en una zona tri-fronteriza del norte de Chile, contribuye a las propuestas de programas de prevención en esta población vulnerable y de riesgo.

Abstract Background: Sex workers, people with drug addiction, early onset of sexual activity population, and criminal population, are considered the groups most at risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Aim: To determine the prevalence of infection by Neisseria gonorrhoeae in inmates of the Preventive Detention Center (CDP) at Arica and Parinacota Region, Chile. The Scientific Ethical Committee of Universidad de Tarapacá approved this study. Method: 140 inmates participated, who voluntarily agreed to be part of the study and signed an informed consent. A sample of urethral meatus was taken to investigate N. gonorrhoeae, and an epidemiological survey was applied, which included age, drug use, overcrowding, among others. Results: The prevalence of the agent was 16.4% in inmates of the Arica CDP, a result lower than that reported in other similar studies. Conclusion: Knowing the reality of the prevalence of this STI and some risk factors associated with the situation of deprivation of freedom in a tri-border area of northern Chile, contributes to the proposals for prevention programs in this vulnerable and at-risk population.

La búsqueda de información y su asociación con la producción científica: el ejemplo de la sífilis y la gonorrea / Information search and its association to scientific production: the example of syphilis and gonorrhea

El objetivo de este trabajo fue analizar la asociación entre la búsqueda de información sobre sífilis y gonorrea a través de Google, y la producción científica sobre estas dos infecciones de transmisión sexual. Se realizó estudio descriptivo transversal. Los datos se obtuvieron de la consulta directa, online, Google Trends y MEDLINE (vía PubMed), con el uso de los términos Syphilis y Gonorrhea. Las variables estudiadas fueron: volumen de búsqueda relativo (VBR), VBR mensual medio (VBRm), referencias (REF) y REF mensuales medias (REFm). La VBRm para el término Syphilis presentó ligera progresión creciente y ajuste exponencial (R2= 0,05; p= 0,42); Para Gonorrhea la evolución VBRm fue creciente con ajuste lineal (R2= 0,67; p< 0,01). La REFm para la producción científica sobre la Syphilis mostró un ajuste lineal creciente (R2= 0,42; p= 0,01) y para la REFm sobre la Gonorrhea fue un ajuste exponencial creciente (R2= 0,47; p= 0,01). La relación del VBRm para el término Syphilis en relación con su REFm dio una asociación escasa (R= 0,11; p= 0,69). Esta relación para la Gonorrhea mostró una significativa correlación positiva (R= 0,67; p= 0,01). Los resultados obtenidos no permitieron obtener una conclusión firme que contestara el objetivo de este trabajo. A partir de ahora, con un mayor seguimiento, se podrán obtener resultados que confirmen, o no, la asociación entre la búsqueda de información y la producción científica sobre los temas relacionados con la salud(AU)

The purpose of the study was to analyze the association between information search about syphilis and gonorrhea in Google, and the scientific production about these two sexually transmitted infections. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted. Data were obtained by direct online consultation of Google Trends and MEDLINE (via PubMed) using the search terms syphilis and gonorrhea. The variables analyzed were relative search volume (RSV), mean monthly RSV (RSVm), references (REF) and mean monthly REF (REFm). The RSVm for the term syphilis showed slight increasing progression and exponential adjustment (R2= 0.05; p= 0.42); while for gonorrhea the RSVm evolution was increasing with linear adjustment (R2= 0.67; p< 0.01). The REFm for the scientific production about syphilis displayed increasing linear adjustment (R2= 0.42; p= 0.01), whereas the REFm for gonorrhea showed increasing exponential adjustment (R2= 0.47; p= 0.01). The association of the RSVm for the term syphilis with its REFm was scant (R= 0.11; p= 0.69), while the term gonorrhea exhibited a significant positive correlation (R= 0.67; p= 0.01). The results obtained were not sufficient to reach a definitive conclusion in response to the aim of the study. From this moment onwards, with greater follow-up, further results may be obtained which will either confirm or disprove the association between information search and scientific production about health topics(AU)

Manifestaciones coloproctológicas de las infecciones de transmisión sexual ocasionadas por Chlamydia Trachomatis, Neisseria Gonorrhoeae y Treponema Pallidum. Presentación casuística / Coloproctological manifestations of sexually transmitted infections caused by Chlamydia Trachomatis, Neisseria Gonorrhoeae and Treponema Pallidum. Case presentation

Introducción: Las infecciones transmisibles sexualmente (ITS) con afectación anorrectal constituyen un desafío pues las manifestaciones producidas por Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) y Treponema pallidum (TP) son similares. Objetivo: Evaluar si las manifestaciones anorrectales debidas a CT, NG y TP asociadas al examen proctológico permiten diagnóstico certero, sin estudios complementarios. Pacientes y método: Estudio retrospectivo. Revisión de registros de pacientes atendidos en consultorio coloproctológico. Periodo: 01/08/2015-01/07/2016. Se incluyeron pacientes con diagnóstico de ITS anorrectal, excepto aquellos con HPV únicamente. A todos se les pesquisaron ITS mediante hisopado anal para CT por inmunofluorescencia y para estudio directo y cultivo de NG, VDRL para TP y además HIV. Variables: sexo, edad, HIV, sexo anal, uso de preservativo, motivo de consulta y resultado de estudios efectuados. Resultados: Treinta y cuatro pacientes (32 hombres). Edad mediana 31,5 años (rango: 19-65). Veinticinco pacientes HIV + (73,5%). Veintinueve pacientes (28 hombres) mantenían sexo anal. 91% no usaba preservativo adecuadamente. 65% tuvo una única infección (ITS pura). Se diagnosticaron 14 sífilis (8 puras), 14 clamidiasis (7 puras) y 11 gonococcias (7 puras). Co-infección entre ellas: 9% y con HPV: 26%. La úlcera fue la manifestación en 7/8 casos de sífilis puras (todas dolorosas, excepto una). El resto presentó síntomas variados (condilomas virales atípicos, secreción purulenta y proctorragia). Más del 50% de las gonococias puras (4/7) se manifestó con úlcera, sin embargo, el dolor estuvo presente siempre (8/8) y en tres se asoció secreción purulenta. En cambio, la mitad de los pacientes con clamidiasis puras, se manifestó con proctorragia causada por un tumor rectal/sigmoideo inflamatorio, clínicamente indistinguible de neoplasia maligna. Todos las sífilis y gonococias tuvieron correlato con las pruebas diagnósticas, no así las clamidiasis cuyo diagnóstico no pudo confirmarse en tres casos (37,5%), que respondieron al tratamiento empírico. Conclusión: NG y TP anorrectal provocaron mayormente síntomas similares a los de etiología no venérea y se requirió del laboratorio para el diagnóstico etiológico. La presencia de tumor con biopsia negativa para neoplasia maligna en pacientes de riesgo para ITS obliga a descartar clamidiasis. (AU)

Introduction: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a challenge in medical consultation. The clinical manifestations of infection by Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) and Treponema pallidum ( TP) share symptoms at anorectal level. This implies the need for a high index of suspicion for diagnosis, which is based on history, physical examination and laboratory tests that not always are accurate or available . Purpose: Assess whether clinical signs of anorectal infections by CT, NG and TP associated with proctologic exams, lead to an accurate etiologic diagnosis without the help of specific laboratory studies. Patients and methods: Observational, retrospective study, based on a review of records of patients treated at the outpatient clinic of the Hospital Fernandez (City of Buenos Aires) department of coloproctology, in the period between August 2015 and July 2016. Patients who underwent STI diagnosis were all considered, but to those whose only diagnosis was infection by human papilloma virus (HPV) were excluded from the analysis. All patients were tested after the three etiologies of STI (anal swab for CT study by immunofluorescence, swabbing for direct study, and cultivation of NG and TP VDRL) and HIV. Variables analyzed: sex, age, presence of HIV infection, practice of receptive anal sex, proper use of condoms, signs and symptoms that prompted the consultation, and results of diagnostic tests. Results: 34 patients (32 men) were included. Median age 31.5 years (range: 19-65, interquartile range: 26-37). Twenty-five patients (73.5%) were HIV+. Twenty-nine patients (28 men) remained receptive anal sex. 91% did not use condoms properly. 65% of infections were pure, without other STI asociada-. 14 cases of syphilis (8 pure), 14 Chlamydia (7 pure) and 11 gonococcias (7puras), including co-infection in 9% of cases, no evidence of a more frequent another co-infection diagnosed. Co-infection with HPV was detected in 9 (26%) cases. The ulcer was the sign in 7/8 cases of pure syphilis (all painful, except one). The rest is expressed by a variety of symptoms (atypical viral warts, purulent and bloody diarrhea). Similarly, just over 50% (4/7) of pure gonococcias demonstrated ulcer, but the pain was always present (8/8 of pure gonococcias) and three associated with purulent discharge. Instead of the ten patients with pure chlamydia, 50% manifested with bloody diarrhea caused by a rectal tumor / inflammatory sigmoid, clinically indistinguishable from malignancy. All cases of syphilis and gonococcal were correlated with diagnostic tests; not those whose diagnosis of chlamydial infection (confirmed in eight and was negative in three, 37.5%) who responded to empiric treatment indicated by the clinical suspicion. Conclusion: While this is a small series, it shows that the NG and TP in the anorectal location mostly caused symptoms similar to those of non-venereal ethology most of the times, and laboratory assistance for etiologic diagnosis was required. The presence of tumor with negative biopsy for malignancy in patients at risk for STIs, leads chlamydia to be ruled out. (AU)

Prevalence of HIV/STIs and correlates with municipal characteristics among female sex workers in 13 Mexican cities / Prevalencia de VIH/ITS y correlaciones con carácterísticas municipales entre trabajadoras sexuales en 13 ciudades mexicanas

Abstract: Objective: To identify correlates of HIV/STI prevalence among 13 cities with varying sizes of female sex worker (FSW) populations and municipal characteristics in Mexico. Materials and methods: FSWs underwent interviews and testing for HIV, syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia. Logistic regression explored variations in HIV/STI prevalence. Results: Among FSWs (n=1 092), prevalence across 13 sites was: HIV: 0.4% (range: 0%-1.4%): syphilis: 7.8% (range: 0%-17.2%); chlamydia: 15.3% (range: 5.7%-32.2%); gonorrhea: 2.9% (range 0%-13.8%), and any HIV/STI: 23% (range: 9.9%-46%). Municipalities with high human development scores and a lower municipal marginalization index had higher odds of combined HIV/STI prevalence. After controlling for site-specific variability in municipal characteristics, greater risk of HIV/STIs was associated with lower education, having a spouse diagnosed or treated for an STI, unaffordability of condoms, and having non-Mexican clients. Conclusions: Prevalence of HIV/STIs varies across Mexican municipalities indicating the need for surveillance to identify hotspots for targeted resource allocation.

Resumen: Objetivo: Identificar correlaciones de la prevalencia de VIH / ITS entre 13 ciudades con diferentes tamaños de población de trabajadoras sexuales y características municipales en México. Material y métodos: Las trabajadoras sexuales fueron entrevistadas y recibieron pruebas de VIH, sífilis, gonorrea y clamidia. La regresión logística exploró las variaciones en la prevalencia del VIH/ITS. Resultados: Entre las trabajadoras sexuales (n = 1 092), la prevalencia en 13 sitios fue: VIH: 0.4% (rango: 0-1.4%): sífilis: 7.8% (rango: 0-17.2%); clamidia: 15.3% (rango: 5.7-32.2%); gonorrea: 2.9% (rango 0-13.8%) y cualquier VIH/ITS: 23% (rango: 9.9-46%). Los municipios con altos puntajes de desarrollo humano y menor índice de marginación municipal tuvieron una mayor probabilidad de prevalencia combinada de VIH/ITS. Después de controlar la variabilidad específica del sitio en las características municipales, el mayor riesgo de VIH / ITS se asoció con menor educación, tener un cónyuge diagnosticado o tratado para una ITS, imposibilidad de conseguir condones y tener clientes no mexicanos. Conclusiones: La prevalencia de VIH/ITS varía entre los municipios mexicanos, lo que indica la necesidad de una vigilancia para identificar hotspots para la asignación selectiva.

Informe: situación epidemiológica de las infecciones de transmisión sexual en Chile, 2017 / Report: epidemiological situation of sexually transmitted infections in Chile, 2017

Resumen Las infecciones de transmisión sexual (ITS) son una de las principales causas de enfermedad aguda, infertilidad, discapacidad a largo plazo y muerte en el mundo1. Este informe presenta la situación epidemiológica preliminar de las ITS hasta el año 2017 en Chile. Sífilis es la ITS de mayor tasa de notificación, seguido de la infección por VIH. En términos generales, todas las ITS presentan una relativa estabilización de sus tasas en el período 2014 y 2015, excepto gonorrea que muestra un incremento en estos años, el que se focaliza en el grupo de 15 a 24 años. El año 2017, sífilis y la infección por VIH presentaron un aumento de sus tasas en relación al año 2016. En todas estas ITS la tasa de hombres supera a la de mujeres y el grupo de edad más afectado es el de 15 a 39 años. Según distribución geográfica, las regiones de Arica-Parinacota a Antofagasta, Metropolitana, Valparaíso, Los Lagos y Aysén, presentan los mayores riesgos.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are one of the main causes of acute illness, infertility, long-term disability and death in the world1. This report presents the preliminary epidemiological situation of STIs up to the year 2017 in Chile. Syphilis is the STI with the highest reporting rate, followed by HIV infection. In general terms, all STIs present a relative stabilization of their rates in the 2014 and 2015 periods, except for gonorrhea that shows an increase in these years, which focuses on the group of 15 to 24 years. In 2017, syphilis and HIV infection showed an increase in their rates in relation to 2016. In all these STIs the rate of men exceeds that of women and the most affected age group is 15 to 39 years. According to geographical distribution, the regions of Arica-Parinacota to Antofagasta, Metropolitana, Valparaíso, Los Lagos and Aysén, present the greatest risks.

Lower genital tract infections in young female juvenile idiopathic arthritis patients

Abstract Background: To evaluate human papillomavirus (HPV), Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) infections in juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) patients. Methods: After exclusion, 33 female adolescent and young JIA patients (ILAR criteria) and 28 healthy controls were selected for this study. Demographic data, gynecological, sexual function, cervical cytology and histological abnormalities were evaluated. JIA clinical/laboratorial parameters and treatment were also assessed. HPV-DNA, CT-DNA and NG-DNA testing in cervical specimens were performed by Hybrid Capture 2 assays. Results: The mean current age was similar in JIA patients and controls (23.3 ± 6.24 vs. 26.1 ± 6.03 years, p = 0.09). The frequencies of sexual intercourse (76% vs. 89%, p = 0.201) and abnormal cervical cytology (24% vs. 11%, p = 0.201) were similar in JIA compared to controls. The higher frequency of HPV infection in JIA patients than controls (30% vs. 11%, p = 0.155) did not reach statistical significance. CT (0% vs. 7%, p = 0.207) and NG infections (0% vs. 4%, p = 0.459) were also alike in both groups. Further evaluation of JIA patients with abnormal and normal cervical cytology showed that the former group had a higher frequency of HPV infection (87% vs. 12%, p = 0.0002) with a low frequency of HPV vaccination (0% vs. 8%, p = 1.0). No differences were evidenced between these two JIA groups regarding demographic data, sexual function and clinical/laboratorial parameters. The frequencies of methotrexate (p =0.206) and biological agent use (p =0.238) were similar in both JIA groups. Conclusions: To our knowledge, this was the first study to assess lower genital infections in JIA patients allowing the identification of HPV as main cause of cervical dysplasia. Methotrexate and biological agents do not seem to increase risk of lower genital tract infections in JIA patients.

Urétrite gonococcique: preuve bactériologique de la circulation de N. gonorrhoeae dans la ville de Bukavu et revue de la littérature

Nous décrivons un cas d'urétrite gonococcique chez un patient de 31 ans qui a consulté après qu'il a eu une mictalgie et un écoulement urétral purulent, une semaine après de relations sexuelles non-protégées. Sont abordés par après le diagnostic de confirmation bactériologique, la toute première à Bukavu, la sensibilité de la souche aux antibiotiques (Ceftriaxone et Ciprofloxacine) et une brève revue de la littérature sur le Neisseria gonorrhoeae