Epidemiological profile of gestational syphilis and congenital syphilis in a reference center in Northeast Brazil: risk factors and trend from 2019 to 2021 / Perfil epidemiológico de sífilis gestacional e sífilis congênita em centro de referência no Nordeste do Brasil: fatores de risco e tendência de 2019 a 2021

Introduction: Syphilis is an infectious systemic disease caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. The Amaury de Medeiros Integrated University Health Center in Recife is a reference maternity hospital for high-risk pregnancies and the management of the most common Sexually Transmitted Infections during prenatal care, including Gestational Syphilis and Congenital Syphilis. Objective: To determine the epidemiological profile of the population exposed to these conditions, the rate of Gestational Syphilis detection, the incidence of Congenital Syphilis, and the associated unfavorable outcomes in Amaury de Medeiros Integrated University Health Center between January 2019 and December 2021. Methods: This retrospective cohort study included pregnant women and neonates diagnosed with syphilis at Amaury de Medeiros Integrated University Health Center. Data were collected from the Notification/Investigation Forms for Gestational Syphilis and Congenital Syphilis, between January 2019 and December 2021. Results: At Amaury de Medeiros Integrated University Health Center, 463 cases of Gestational Syphilis and 296 of Congenital Syphilis were reported. During the three-year study, 4444, 4360, and 4265 live births were recorded, confirming the Gestational Syphilis detection rates ­ 33.30, 36.92, and 36.10 per 1000 live births, with the incidence of Congenital Syphilis being 26.1, 21.33, and 20.39 per 1000 live births. Pregnant women in their third trimester who were brown, had incomplete primary education, and lived in an urban area were the main sociodemographic variables. In total, 217 (73.3%) patients were diagnosed with Gestational Syphilis during or after delivery, indicating a low prenatal coverage (70.6%). In terms of the progression of Congenital Syphilis, unfavorable outcomes was found in 40 (13.5%) patients, including 16 (40%) abortions, 10 (25%) stillbirths, nine (22.5%) deaths from Congenital Syphilis, and 5 (12.5%) deaths from other causes. Conclusion: Gestational Syphilis detection rates and Congenital Syphilis incidence remain alarming, with abortions and stillbirths being the most common unfavorable outcomes. To change the dramatic situation of Congenital Syphilis in Brazil, the associated factors point to a poor quality of prenatal care and an urgent need to change public policies for pregnant women and newborns, in conjunction with socioeconomic assistance

Perfil epidemiológico de sífilis gestacional no hospital público-privado em um município do oeste do Paraná / Epide miological profile of gestational syphilis in a public-private hospital in a municipality in western Paraná

Objetivo: Determinar o perfil epidemiológico da sífilis gestacional em um hospital público-privado localizado no município de Toledo, Paraná, no período de janeiro de 2017 a dezembro de 2019. Métodos: Estudo observacional, retrospectivo, com forma de abordagem quantitativa, descritiva e indireta, a partir de uma pesquisa documental em um hospital público-privado e na 20ª Regional de Saúde do Paraná, localizados no município de Toledo, Paraná, Brasil. Resultados: Foram avaliadas 163 gestantes com sífilis gestacional. A média de idade foi 24,42 anos. Entre as gestantes, 47,24% são mulheres brancas, 39,88% têm ensino médio completo, 66,26% residentes na cidade de Toledo, 98,16% realizaram pré-natal, 65,64% foram diagnosticadas no primeiro trimestre. O tratamento adequado ocorreu em 45,40% das gestantes e em 53,99% o parceiro foi tratado em conjunto. Conclusão: A sífilis gestacional apresentou predomínio em gestantes na faixa etária de 20 a 29 anos, mulheres brancas, com ensino médio completo, residentes em Toledo, Paraná. Retratou-se boa cobertura de pré-natal, assim como apontou-se o tratamento do parceiro sexual como o maior obstáculo para a gestante ser tratada adequadamente e indicou-se que a sífilis em gestantes pode ser considerada uma causa importante da ocorrência de desfechos perinatais desfavoráveis.

Objective: To determine the epidemiological profile of gestational syphilis in a public- private hospital, located in the city of Toledo, Paraná, from January 2017 to December 2019. Methods: Observational, retrospective study, with a quantitative, descriptive and indirect approach, based on a documentary research in a public-private hospital and in the 20th Regional Health of Paraná, located in the city of Toledo, Paraná, Brazil. Results: 163 pregnant women with gestational syphilis were evaluated. The average age was 24,42 years. 47,24% are white women, 39,88% have completed high school, 66,26% live in the city of Toledo. 98,16% had prenatal care, 65,64% were diagnosed in the 1st trimester. Appropriate treatment occurred in 45,40% of the pregnant women and in 53,99% the partner was treated together. Conclusion: Gestational syphilis was predominant in pregnant women aged 20 to 29 years, white women, with complete high school, living in Toledo, Paraná. It portrayed good prenatal coverage, as well as pointing out the treatment of the sexual partner as the biggest obstacle for the pregnant woman to be treated properly and indicated that syphilis in pregnant women can be considered an important cause of the occurrence of unfavorable perinatal outcomes.

Epidemiological data on HIV-infected patients and the importance of education regarding the infection rate. An analytical cross-sectional study

Abstract BACKGROUND: Sexually transmitted diseases (STIs) are an important public health problem in all countries. Knowledge of their relationship with the various socioeconomic levels is necessary for an understanding of their epidemiology and behavior in society. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the epidemiology of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive patients and to correlate education with history of sexually transmitted diseases, especially for syphilis. DESIGN AND SETTING: Analytical cross-sectional study carried out in the city of Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, Brazil. METHODS: The medical records of HIV/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) patients who started antiretroviral therapy (ART) between January 2010 and July 2018 were assessed. These patients were attended at the specialized assistance service for HIV/AIDS) of the Department of Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD/AIDS) of the city of Juiz de Fora. In total, 335 patients were selected. RESULTS: In our sample, 73.13% were male; 57.36% were aged between 25 and 45 years and 24.23% were over 45 years of age. Regarding sexual orientation, 61.78% were homosexual. Regarding education, 52.88% had "unskilled education", while 47.12% had "qualified education". Analysis on the relationship between schooling and syphilis, a positive relationship between qualified schooling and syphilis was observed: odds ratio = 3.588; 95% confidence interval: 1.090-11.808. CONCLUSION: Homosexual male patients are most affected by HIV. Furthermore, this disease is not limited only to individuals with low education. Syphilis should be suspected in all individuals.

Seroprevalencia de infecciones hemotransmisibles en donantes de sangre / Seroprevalence of transmissible infections in blood donors

Introducción. La seguridad transfusional es el objetivo primordial de los bancos de sangre, sin embargo, conlleva un alto riesgo de eventos adversos como son las infecciones transmisibles por transfusión (ITT). El conocimiento de la prevalencia de estas infecciones fue de particular interés en esta investigación, donde se determinó su frecuencia, coinfección y relación con el tipo de donantes admitidos. Metodología. Estudio observacional retrospectivo de 2017 y 2018, en el que se incluyeron todos los registros de donantes de sangre que contenían datos demográficos y resultados de los marcadores obligatorios en el país (Ecuador), tanto de pruebas serológicas como moleculares. Se obtuvo el permiso del custodio de la información y del subcomité de bioética de investigaciones en seres humanos. Para el análisis de los datos se utilizó estadística descriptiva e inferencial. Resultados. Se determinó una prevalencia del 3,18 % de resultados reactivos para una o más ITT, el rango de edad más prevalente fue de 29 a 40 años, el 89,8 % fueron donantes compensatorios, y de ellos el 90 % fueron reactivos para una o más ITT. El marcador serológico más prevalente fue el anti-core del virus de la hepatitis B (anti-HBc), seguido por el de sífilis y los anticuerpos contra el virus de la hepatitis C (VHC). La coinfección más prevalente fue con sífilis y hepatitis B. Se encontró una diferencia estadísticamente significativa entre los resultados obtenidos en las pruebas serológicas y las moleculares (x2=26,9; p=0,000). Conclusión. Las ITT en los bancos de sangre son un riesgo latente, por lo que es necesario conocer las variaciones epidemiológicas que existen en cada población. El conocimiento de la prevalencia de las ITT en donantes de sangre permite establecer nuevas estrategias de selección del donante, que garanticen la mejor seguridad posible en las transfusiones, además debe verificarse siempre la metodología utilizada y hacer monitoreo permanente del sistema de calidad establecido

Introduction. Transfusion safety is the primary objective of blood banks, however one of the adverse reactions to blood transfusion are the transfusion transmissible infections (TTIs). Knowledge of the prevalence of these infections was of particular interest in this study where we determined their frequency, co-infection and relationship with the type of donors admitted. Methodology. Retrospective observational study during 2017 and 2018, in which all blood donor records containing demographic data and results of the country's (Ecuador) mandatory serological markers of both serological and molecular tests were included. Permission was obtained from the data custodian and the Human Research Bioethics Subcommittee. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for data analysis. Results. A prevalence of 3,18% of reactive results to one or more TTIs was determined, the most prevalent age range was 29 to 40 years, 89.8% were compensatory donors and 90% of them were reactive to one or more TTIs. The anti- core serological marker of the hepatitis B virus (anti-HBc) was the most prevalent, followed by syphilis and hepatitis C antibodies. Syphilis and hepatitis B were identified as the most prevalent coinfection. The correlation between the results obtained in the serological and molecular tests was determined to be different and statistically significant (x2=26.9; p=0.000). Conclusion. TTIs in blood banks are a latent risk, so it is necessary to know the epidemiological variations that exist in every population. Knowledge of the prevalence of TTIs in blood donors facilitates new donor selection strategies that guarantee the best possible safety in transfusions. In addition, the methodology used must always be verified and the established quality system must be permanently monitored

Perfil das gestantes diagnosticadas com sífilis durante o pré-natal ou parto admitidas em maternidade de Belo Horizonte ­ MG / Profile of pregnant women diagnosed with syphilis in the maternity in Belo Horizonte ­ MG

Objetivo: Conhecer o perfil epidemiológico e identificar fatores de risco, eficácia do diagnóstico e tratamento durante o pré-natal de pacientes com histórico de sífilis admitidas em uma maternidade de Belo Horizonte, com o intuito de atuar de forma preventiva quanto à população local. Métodos: Estudo transversal, retrospectivo, com análise de prontuários e banco de dados de notificações de sífilis congênita e em gestantes obtidos entre janeiro/2017 e dezembro/2019, referentes a pacientes admitidas para parto, internação clínica ou atendimento de urgência. Resultados: Foram identificadas 198 gestantes com idade média de 24 anos. Avaliando os dados pré-natais, 65% foram acompanhadas no risco habitual com uma média de seis consultas. Na análise do diagnóstico, 58% não possuíam registro de teste treponêmico e 31,8% apresentaram teste reagente. Entre as pacientes, 21% relataram já ter tido sífilis previamente. O esquema de tratamento em 74,7% foi penicilina benzatina 7.200.000 UI. O tratamento concomitante do parceiro era desconhecido em 46% dos casos e confirmado em 33%. Na avaliação neonatal, 95 recém-nascidos apresentaram VDRL positivo; desses, 33% apresentaram titulação maior que a diluição de 1:8. No desfecho gestacional, houve quatro decessos fetais e dois abortamentos. Conclusão: Apesar de recursos diagnósticos e terapêuticos simples e de baixo custo, o controle da sífilis na gestação mostra-se um desafio. O rastreio da infecção durante o pré-natal nem sempre acontece em momento oportuno e a taxa de reinfecção materna é significativa, mostrando que orientações para prevenção ou tratamento não foram realizadas adequadamente.(AU)

Objective: To know the epidemiological profile, identify risk factors, effectiveness of diagnosis and treatment during prenatal care of patients admitted to the Maternity in Belo Horizonte with a history of syphilis, in order to act preventively towards the local population. Methods: Cross-sectional study, retrospective study, with analysis of medical records and a database of congenital syphilis notifications and in pregnant women obtained between January/2017 and December/2019, referring to patients admitted for delivery, clinical hospitalization or emergency care. Results: 198 pregnant women with an average age of 24 years were identified. Evaluating the prenatal data, 65% were followed up at usual risk with an average of six consultations. In the analysis of the diagnosis, 58% did not have a treponemal test record and 31.8% had a reagent test. 21% of patients reported having previously had syphilis. The treatment regimen in 74.7% was benzathine penicillin 7,200,000 IU. Concomitant treatment of the partner was unknown in 46% of cases and confirmed in 33%. In the neonatal assessment, 95 newborns showed positive VDRL test, of which 33% had a higher titre than the 1:8 dilution. In the gestational outcome, there were four fetal deceases and two abortions. Conclusion: Despite simple and low-cost diagnostic and therapeutic resources, controlling syphilis during pregnancy is a challenge. Screening for infection during prenatal care does not always happen in an opportune moment and the rate of maternal reinfection is significant, showing that guidelines for prevention or treatment have not been carried out.(AU)

Fatores associados ao diagnóstico da sífilis adquirida em usuários de um centro de testagem e aconselhamento / Factors associated with the diagnosis of acquired syphilis in users of a testing and counseling center / Factores asociados al diagnóstico de sífilis adquirida en usuarios de un centro de pruebas y asesoramiento

Objetivo: analisar a frequência de sífilis entre os usuários do Centro de Testagem e Aconselhamento de Montes Claros, Minas Gerais, e os fatores associados à infecção. Método: trata-se de um estudo transversal, com componentes descritivos e analíticos, realizado com usuários atendidos no serviço entre 2014 e 2019. Os dados foram coletados de fonte secundária, por amostragem aleatória e sistemática. Resultados: a amostra foi composta por 957 formulários de usuários e a frequência de casos de testes rápidos reagentes para sífilis foi de 11,3%, com distribuição semelhante entre os sexos. O diagnóstico da sífilis se associou de forma significativa às variáveis: situação conjugal, idade, escolaridade, quantidade de parcerias sexuais, orientação sexual e uso de drogas no último ano. Conclusão: programas de aconselhamento e testagem rápida devem ser incentivados para prevenção e diminuição das infecções sexualmente transmissíveis em Montes Claros e em todo país

Objective: to analyze the frequency of syphilis among users of the Testing and Counseling Center in Montes Claros, Minas Gerais, and the factors associated with the infection. Method: this is a cross-sectional study, with descriptive and analytical components, carried out with users seen at the service between 2014 and 2019. Data were collected from a secondary source, by random and systematic sampling. Results: the sample consisted of 957 user forms and the frequency of cases of rapid reactive tests for syphilis was 11.3%, with similar distribution between genders. The diagnosis of syphilis was significantly associated with the variables: marital status, age, education, number of sexual partners, sexual orientation and drug use in the last year. Conclusion:counseling and rapid testing programs should be encouraged to prevent and reduce sexually transmitted infections in Montes Claros and across the country

Objetivo: analizar la frecuencia de sífilis entre los usuarios del Centro de Asesoramiento y Pruebas en Montes Claros, Minas Gerais y los factores asociados a la infección. Método: se trata de un estudio transversal, con componentes descriptivos y analíticos, realizado con usuarios atendidos en el servicio entre 2014 y 2019. Los datos se recolectaron de una fuente secundaria, mediante muestreo aleatorio y sistemático. Resultados: la muestra estuvo conformada por 957 formularios de usuario y la frecuencia de casos de pruebas reactivas rápidas para sífilis fue de 11,3%, con distribución similar entre géneros. El diagnóstico de sífilis se asoció significativamente con las variables: estado civil, edad, educación, número de parejas sexuales, orientación sexual. y consumo de drogas en el último año. Conclusión: se deben fomentar los programas de asesoramiento y pruebas rápidas para prevenir y reducir las infecciones de transmisión sexual en Montes Claros y en todo el país

Assessment of the appropriate management of syphilis patients in primary health care in different regions of Brazil from 2012 to 2018 / Avaliação do manejo adequado de pacientes com sífilis na atenção primária em diferentes regiões do Brasil entre 2012 e 2018 / Evaluación de una gestión apropiada de pacientes con sífilis en la atención primaria en diferentes regiones de Brasil entre 2012 y 2018

This study aimed to analyze the presence of adequate infrastructure and work process in primary health care for the diagnosis, management, and treatment of syphilis in Brazil in 2012, 2014, and 2018. This is a cross-sectional, nationwide study with data from the three cycles of the Program for Improvement of Access and Quality of Basic Healthcare (PMAQ-AB): 2012 (Cycle I), 2014 (Cycle II), and 2018 (Cycle III). Two outcomes were assessed: adequate infrastructure and work process. The independent variables were macroregion, municipality size, Municipal Human Development Index (HDI-M), and coverage of the Family Health Strategy (FHS). Variance-weighted least squares regression was used to estimate annual changes in percentage. In total, 13,842 primary basic health units (UBS) and 17,202 professional health care teams were assessed in Cycle I; 24,055 UBS and 29,778 teams in Cycle II, and 28,939 UBS and 37,350 teams in Cycle III. About 1.4% of UBS had adequate infrastructure in Cycle I; 17.5% had in Cycle II; and 42.7% had in Cycle III. Adequate work process also increased in the three cycles, ranging from 47.3% in Cycle I to 45.5% in Cycle II and 75.4% in Cycle III. However, inequities are observed, considering that richer regions and larger municipalities, with higher HDI-M and lower FHS coverage improved the most. The low prevalence of adequate infrastructure and work process for the care of patients with syphilis in Brazil reflects a significant weakness in the Brazilian health system.

O estudo teve como objetivo analisar a presença de infraestrutura e processo de trabalho adequados na atenção primária para o diagnóstico, manejo e tratamento da sífilis no Brasil nos anos de 2012, 2014 e 2018, com um desenho transversal, de abrangência nacional, com dados dos três ciclos do Programa Nacional de Melhoria do Acesso e da Qualidade da Atenção Básica (PMAQ-AB) em 2012 (Ciclo I), 2014 (Ciclo II) e 2018 (Ciclo III). Foram avaliados dois desfechos: infraestrutura e processo de trabalho adequados. As variáveis independentes foram macrorregião, tamanho do município, Índice de Desenvolvimento Humano Municipal (IDH-M) e cobertura da Estratégia Saúde da Família (ESF). Foi utilizada regressão de mínimos quadrados ponderada pela variância para estimar as mudanças anuais em pontos percentuais. No Ciclo I, foram avaliadas 13.842 unidades básicas de saúde (UBS) e 17.202 equipes de saúde, no Ciclo II, 24.055 UBS e 29.778 equipes e no Ciclo III, 28.939 UBS e 37.350 equipes. No Ciclo I, 1,4% das UBS apresentavam infraestrutura adequada, aumentando para 17,5% no Ciclo II e 42,7% no Ciclo III. Houve também um aumento no processo de trabalho adequado nos três ciclos, passando de 47,3% no ciclo I para 45,5% no ciclo II e 75,4% no Ciclo III. Entretanto, foram observadas inequidades, com melhoras mais expressivas nas regiões mais ricas, municípios com IDH-M mais alto, maiores e com menor cobertura da ESF. A baixa prevalência de infraestrutura e processo de trabalho adequados para o atendimento dos pacientes com sífilis no Brasil refletem uma insuficiência importante no sistema de saúde brasileiro.

El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar la presencia de infraestructura adecuada, así como de la existencia de procesos laborales dentro de la atención primaria para la diagnosis, gestión y tratamiento de sífilis en Brasil durante los años de 2012, 2014 y 2018. Se trata de un estudio transversal, nacional, con datos de los tres ciclos del Programa Nacional de Mejoría de Acceso y Calidad de la Atención Básica (PMAQ-AB) en 2012 (Ciclo I), 2014 (Ciclo II) y 2018 (Ciclo III). Se evaluaron dos resultados: infraestructura adecuada y proceso laboral. Las variables independientes fueron: macrorregión, tamaño del municipio, Índice de Desarrollo Humano Municipal (HDI-M), así como la cobertura de la Estrategia Salud de la Familia (ESF). Se utilizó la regresión de mínimos cuadrados ponderados por varianza para estimar los cambios anuales por puntos porcentuales. En el Ciclo I, se evaluaron 13.842 servicios de salud básicos (UBS) y 17.202 equipos profesionales de salud, en el Ciclo II 24.055 UBS y 29.778 equipos y en el Ciclo III 28.939 UBS y 37.350 equipos. En el Ciclo I un 1.4% de las UBS tenían una infraestructura adecuada, incrementándose hasta un 17.5% en el Ciclo II y a un 42.7% en el Ciclo III. Había también un incremento en el proceso laboral adecuado en los tres Ciclos, yendo de un 47.3% en el Ciclo I al 45.5% en el Ciclo II y un 75.4% en el Ciclo III. No obstante, se observaron inequidades, con mejoras más expresivas en regiones más ricas, municipios con un HDI-M mayor y con una cobertura ESF más baja. La prevalencia baja de una infraestructura adecuada y el proceso laboral para el cuidado de pacientes con sífilis en Brasil refleja una importante debilidad en el sistema de salud brasileño.

Tendencias temporales en el uso de métodos de barrera durante las relaciones sexuales en Argentina y eficacia de intervenciones para promover su implementación / Trends in the use of barrier methods during sexual intercourse in Argentina and the effectiveness of interventions to promote their implementation

Durante la última década, presenciamos en Argentina un aumento de la incidencia de infecciones de transmisión sexual(ITS) vinculado con una disminución en el uso de métodos de barrera (MB). De acuerdo a la bibliografía, existen varias categorías de obstáculos para el uso de MB: desigualdades de género, dificultades económicas y/o de accesibilidad, desconfianza respecto de los MB provistos por el Estado respecto de su calidad y/o fecha de vencimiento, o bien, creencias acerca de que la utilización de MB disminuye el placer sexual o que no es necesario su uso cuando la relación de pareja es estable y/o basada en la confianza, el amor y/o la fidelidad. A partir de esta problemática, los autores de este artículo realizamos una búsqueda bibliográfica y revisamos cual es la evidencia que respalda diferentes intervenciones para promover el uso de MB. Encontramos evidencia de moderada calidad que avala la eficacia de intervenciones a nivel comunitario basadas en la teoría sociocognitiva y en el aumento de la oferta y la disponibilidad de preservativos para mejorar el conocimiento sobre el HIV y el uso de estos métodos, sin impacto sobre la incidencia de ITS a nivel poblacional. (AU)

Over the last decade, Argentina has shown an increase in the incidence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) linked to a decrease in the use of barrier methods (BM). According to the literature, there are several categories of obstacles for the use of BM: gender inequalities, economic and/or accessibility difficulties, mistrust regarding the quality and/or expiry date of state-provided BMs, as well as beliefs that the use of BMs reduces sexual pleasure or that their use is not necessary when the couple's relationship is stable and/or based on trust, love and/or fidelity. In light of this issue, the authors of this article conducted a literature search and reviewed the evidence supporting different interventions to promote the use of BM. They found moderate quality evidence that supports the efficacy of community-level interventions based on socio-cognitive theory and on increasing the supply and availability of condoms to improve knowledge about HIV and the use of these methods, with no impact on the incidence of STIs at the population level. (AU)

Analysis on psychoactive substances use in men who have sex with men in Tianjin / 中华流行病学杂志

Objective: To understand the use of psychoactive substances and its related factors in men who have sex with men (MSM) in Tianjin. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in MSM recruited in Tianjin by snowball sampling from September 2017 to December 2020, the information about their social demographic information, use of psychoactive substances and behavioral characteristics were collected, meanwhile the blood samples were taken from them for HIV/syphilis detections. Multivariate logistic regression was used to explore related factors about psychoactive substances use. Results: A total of 9 218 MSM were included in the study, in whom 43.5% (4 013/9 218) had ever used psychoactive substances, including 92.6% (3 718/4 013)who used Rush and 17.2% (692/4 013) who used multi substances. Multivariate analysis showed that, the OR of psychoactive substances use in MSM who were in Han ethnic group was 0.68 (95%CI:0.51-0.91) compared with those who were in minor ethnic group; the OR of psychoactive substances use in MSM who were married or cohabited, divorced or widowed were 0.65 (95%CI: 0.57-0.71), 0.80 (95%CI: 0.65-0.97) respectively compared with those who were unmarried; the OR of psychoactive substances use in MSM who had the first homosexual sex at age of ≥30 years was 0.57 (95%CI: 0.44-0.74) compared with those who had the first homosexual sex at age of <30 years; the OR of psychoactive substances use in local MSM in Tianjin was 1.12 (95%CI: 1.03-1.23) compared with those who were not local residents in Tianjin; the OR of psychoactive substances use in MSM with education level of college or above was 1.29 (95%CI: 1.12-1.49) compared with those with education level of junior middle school or below; the OR of psychoactive substances use in MSM who had anal sex in the past six months was 1.93 (95%CI: 1.34-2.77) compared with those who had no anal sex; the OR of psychoactive substances use in MSM who had >2 homosexual partners in the last week was 1.62 (95%CI: 1.41-1.87) compared with those who had ≤2 homosexual partners; the OR of psychoactive substances use in MSM who had homosexual commercial sex in the past six months was 1.99 (95%CI: 1.62-2.45) compared with those who had no homosexual commercial sex; the OR of psychoactive substances use in MSM who had sexually transmitted diseases in the last year was 2.39 (95%CI: 1.82-3.12) compared with those who had no sexually transmitted diseases and the OR of psychoactive substances use in MSM who received peer education services in the last year was 1.63 (95%CI: 1.50-1.78) compared with those who received no peer education services. Conclusion: The prevalence of psychoactive substances use is high in MSM in Tianjin, and there are many influencing factors. It is necessary to conduct targeted interventions according to the influencing factors.

HIV infection status in male outpatients in sexually transmitted disease clinics in Tianjin, 2016-2020 / 中华流行病学杂志

Objective: To understand the HIV infection status in male outpatients in sexually transmitted disease (STD) clinics in Tianjin from 2016 to 2020. Methods: According to the sentinel surveillance protocol, continuous cross-sectional studies were conducted between April and June during 2016-2020 to collect the information about the awareness of AIDS related knowledge, related sex behaviors, HIV infection, syphilis prevalence and HCV infection of male STD outpatients in Tianjin with a sample seize of 400 in each sentinel clinic. Results: From 2016 to 2020, a total of 4 000 male STD outpatients were surveyed. The HIV positive rate increased from 1.13% (9/800) to 2.25% (18/800) (trend χ2=14.22, P<0.001), the positive rate of syphilis increased from 9.38% (75/800) to 13.00% (104/800) (trend χ2=7.30, P=0.007) in this population during this period. The overall HCV positive rate was 0.45% (18/4 000). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that compared with those who were unmarried, had registered residence in Tianjin, had no temporary sexual behavior in the past 3 months, had no anal sex and had negative syphilis test result, the risk factors of HIV infection in the male STD outpatients included cohabitation (aOR=7.53, 95%CI:2.13-26.62), being from other provinces (aOR=3.64,95%CI:1.58-8.38), having temporary sexual behavior in the past 3 months (aOR=2.24,95%CI:1.03-4.89), having homosexual anal sex (aOR=85.99,95%CI:38.76-190.74) and suffering from syphilis (aOR=6.06,95%CI:3.18-11.56). Conclusion: The detection rates of HIV infection and syphilis in male STD outpatients in Tianjin showed upward trends from 2016 to 2020. Having temporary sexual behavior and anal sex, and suffering from syphilis were the main risk factors of HIV infection in male STD outpatients.

Características sociodemográficas y clínicas de la sífilis gestacional en Cali, 2018 / Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of gestational syphilis in Cali, 2018

Resumen | Introducción. La sífilis gestacional se considera de interés en salud pública por las repercusiones que tiene en la madre y el hijo. Pese a tener protocolos para su notificación, diagnóstico y manejo, en Colombia se siguen evidenciando limitaciones en su control. Objetivo. Describir las características sociodemográficas, clínicas y de distribución espacial de las pacientes con sífilis gestacional en Cali, Colombia, en el 2018. Materiales y métodos. Se hizo un estudio transversal con 427 casos de sífilis gestacional reportados al Sistema de Vigilancia en Salud Pública (Sivigila). Para el procesamiento estadístico, se utilizó el programa R, versión 3.5.3. Las variables cualitativas se presentan como proporciones y, las cuantitativas, mediante medidas de tendencia central y dispersión, Para la distribución espacial, se usó el programa Qgis 3.0. Resultados. La razón de sífilis gestacional fue de 17 casos por 1.000 vivos (incluidos los mortinatos). El 57,1 % de las pacientes pertenecía al régimen subsidiado de salud y el 16,6 % no estaba asegurado. El 90,4 % de los casos se diagnosticó durante el embarazo; el 47,2% recibió tres dosis de penicilina y el 57,6 % de los contactos recibió tratamiento. Conclusiones. La tasa de sífilis gestacional en Cali en el 2018 fue superior a la nacional y la enfermedad se presentó con mayor frecuencia en mujeres gestantes en condición de vulnerabilidad socioeconómica, lo que coincidió con la distribución espacial en general. Se evidenció la falta de oportunidad en la detección temprana y el manejo de la infección tanto en las pacientes como en sus contactos, lo cual dificulta el control de la enfermedad y refleja la inadecuada aplicación de la ruta integral de atención en salud materno-perinatal.

Abstract | Introduction: Gestational syphilis is considered an event of public health interest given its impact on mother and child. In Colombia, despite having specific protocols for its notification, diagnosis, and management, there are still limitations in its control. Objectives: To describe the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, as well as the spatial distribution of gestational syphilis in Cali, Colombia, in 2018. Materials and methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study of 427 gestational syphilis cases reported to the Colombian national epidemiological surveillance system (Sivigila). For the statistical processing, we used the R program, version 3.5.3. We expressed qualitative variables as proportions and quantitative ones through central tendency and dispersion measures, and to establish the spatial distribution we used the Qgis program, version 3.0. Results: The prevalence of gestational syphilis was 17 cases per 1,000 live births (including stillbirths); 57.1% of patients belonged to the subsidized healthcare system and 16.6% had no health insurance; 90.4% of cases were diagnosed during pregnancy; 47.2% of the pregnant women received three doses of penicillin, yet only 57.6% of contacts were treated. Conclusions: The prevalence of gestational syphilis in Cali during 2018 exceeded the national rate with a higher frequency among women in socioeconomic vulnerability conditions consistent with the general spatial distribution. There was a lack of opportunity in the early detection and management of the infection both among pregnant women and their contacts, which hinders the control of the disease and reflects the inadequate application of the comprehensive maternal and perinatal health care route guidelines.

Prevalence of HIV, Syphilis, Hepatitis B and C in pregnant women at a maternity hospital in Salvador / Prevalência de HIV, Sífilis, Hepatites B e C em gestantes de uma maternidade de Salvador

Abstract Objectives: to calculate the prevalence and rate per 1,000 live births of sexually transmitted infections (STI) in pregnant women at a public maternity hospital in Salvador. Methods: this descriptive, cross-sectional study retrospectively collected data from compulsory notifications and medical records of pregnant women with STI seen at a maternity hospital in northeastern Brazil between 2014 and 2017 (n = 520). Prevalence and rate per 1,000 live births were estimated for hepatitis B, hepatitis C, HIV, and syphilis. Associations between STI and other clinical and sociodemographic variables were investigated. Results: most pregnant women were born and resided in Salvador, presented a mean age of 26.4 years, self-reported mixed-race and had unplanned pregnancies. Prevalence and rates per 1,000 live births were, respectively: 0.26% and 3.39 for hepatitis B, 0.06% and 0.79 for hepatitis C, 0.47% and 6.23 for HIV, and 2.46% and 32.2 for syphilis. Conclusion: higher prevalence and rates of infection per 1,000 live births were seen at the maternity hospital in northeastern Brazil compared to official data provided by the Brazilian government, notably with regard to HIV and syphilis. The appropriate epidemiological notification of STI, especially in pregnant women, enables the elaboration of effective preventive strategies incorporating specific sociodemographic and clinical characteristics.

Resumo Objetivos: calcular a prevalência e as taxas por 1000 nascidos vivos de infecções sexualmente transmissíveis (IST) em gestantes de uma maternidade pública de Salvador. Métodos: estudo transversal, descritivo, com dados coletados retrospectivamente a partir das fichas de notificação dos agravos e dos prontuários de todas as gestantes com IST atendidas na maternidade, entre os anos de 2014 e 2017 (n=520). Foram calculadas as prevalências e as taxas por 1000 nascidos vivos de hepatite B, hepatite C, HIV e sífilis para a população de gestantes da maternidade. Associações entre as IST e demais variáveis clínicas e sociodemográficas também foram investigadas. Resultados: a maioria das gestantes era natural e residente de Salvador, pardas, com idade média de 26,4 anos e que não planejaram a gravidez. As prevalências e as taxas por 1000 nascidos vivos foram respectivamente: 0,26% e 3,39 para hepatite B, 0,06% e 0,79 para hepatite C, 0,47% e 6,23 para HIV e 2,46% e 32,2 para sífilis. Conclusão: a maternidade apresenta prevalências e taxas por 1000 nascidos vivos superiores aos dados oficiais do governo brasileiro, especialmente para HIV e sífilis. A correta notificação epidemiológica desses agravos, especialmente em gestantes, permite o desenvolvimento de estratégias preventivas mais eficientes e com enfoque nas características sociodemográficas e clínicas das pacientes.

Trend analysis of clinical aspects of congenital syphilis in Brazil, 2009-2018

SUMMARY INTRODUCTION: Congenital syphilis is caused by the vertical transmission of bacteria, Treponema pallidum, from nontreated or inappropriately treated pregnant to the fetus. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the clinical aspects of Congenital syphilis in Brazil, between 2009-2018. METHOD: It is an analytical cross-sectional study whose data were collected from the Department of Chronical Conditions and Sexually Transmitted Infections of Brazilian Health Ministry. Clinical variables were analyzed using the software Joinpoint Regression, which makes a segmented linear regression. RESULTS: In the study period, 156,969 cases of Congenital syphilis and 1642 deaths by this disease were reported. The trend analysis indicates growing in diagnosis of maternal syphilis during prenatal care, appropriate treatment of pregnant, realization of prenatal care, maternal partner treatment, diagnosis of syphilis in children under seven days, and diagnosis of recent syphilis. CONCLUSIONS: Although the trend analysis presents relative improvement in Congenital syphilis panorama in Brazil, the disease still related to high numbers of evitable perinatal morbidity and mortality. Therefore, the prenatal assistance with quality is fundamental to have a possible change in this field in the country.

Evaluation of the seroprevalence of infectious diseases in 2, 445 in vitro fertilization cycles / Avaliação da soroprevalência de doenças infecciosas em 2. 445 ciclos de fertilização in vitro

Abstract Objective To evaluate the seroprevalence of positive markers for syphilis, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) I and II, human T cell lymphotropic virus (HTLV) I and II, and hepatitis B and C among women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF). Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis among patients who underwent IVF, between January 2013 and February 2016, and who had complete screening records. Results We analyzed 1,008 patients who underwent IVF, amounting to 2,445 cycles. Two patients (0.2%) tested positive for HIV I and II and none for HTLV I and II. Three patients (0.3%) had positive screening for syphilis, and two (0.2%) had positive hepatitis C antibody test (anti-HCV). A positive hepatitis B virus surface antigen (HbsAg) test was observed in 4 patients (0.4%), while 47 (4.7%) patients were positive for IgG antibody to hepatitis B core antigen (anti-HbC IgG), and only 1 (0.1%) was positive for IgM antibody to hepatitis B core antigen (anti-HbC IgM). The anti-HbS test was negative in 659 patients (65.3%). Only 34.7% of the patients had immunity against the Hepatitis B virus. Patients with an anti-HbS negative result were older than those with a hepatitis B test (anti-HbS) positive result (36.3 versus 34.9; p<0.001). Conclusion The present study showed lower infection rates than the Brazilian ones for the diseases studied in patients undergoing IVF. Only a few patients were immunized against hepatitis B.

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar a soroprevalência de marcadores positivos para sífilis, vírus da imunodeficiência humana (HIV) I e II, vírus linfotrópicos de células T humanas (HTLV) I e II e hepatite B e C em mulheres submetidas a fertilização in vitro (FIV). Métodos Realizamos uma análise retrospectiva entre as pacientes submetidas a FIV, entre janeiro de 2013 e fevereiro de 2016, e que possuíam prontuários completos. Resultados Foram analisadas 1.008 pacientes submetidas a FIV, totalizando 2,445 ciclos. Duas pacientes (0,2%) apresentaram resultado positivo para HIV I e II, e nenhuma para HTLV I e II. Três pacientes (0,3%) apresentaram triagem positiva para sífilis, e duas (0,2%) apresentaram teste de pesquisa de anticorpos anti-HCV (anti-HCV) positivo. Um teste de antígeno de superfície do vírus da hepatite B (HbsAg) positivo foi observado em 4 pacientes (0,4%), enquanto 47 (4,7%) pacientes foram positivas para anticorpos IgG contra o antígeno de superfície da hepatite B (IgG anti-HbC), e apenas 1 (0,1%) foi positiva para anticorpos IgM contra o antígeno central da hepatite B (IgM anti-HbC). O teste de anticorpos contra hepatite B (anti-HbS) foi negativo em 659 pacientes (65,3%). Apenas 34,7% das pacientes tinham imunidade contra o vírus da hepatite B. Pacientes comresultado negativo anti-HbS erammais velhas do que aquelas com resultado positivo anti-HbS (36,3 versus 34,9; p<0,001). Conclusão Este estudo mostrou taxas de infecção inferiores às taxas brasileiras para as doenças estudadas em pacientes submetidas à FIV. Apenas alguns pacientes foram imunizados contra a hepatite B.

Vertically transmitted infections and extrauterine growth restriction in preterm neonates: a new risk factor / Infecções de transmissão vertical e restrição do crescimento extrauterino em neonatos prematuros: novo fator de risco

Abstract Objectives: to investigate the association between Vertically Transmitted Infections (VTI) and Extrauterine Growth Restriction (EUGR) among premature infants in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU). Methods: part of a large non-concurrent cohort study with medical records analysis. We evaluated EUGR in premature infants at a gestational age at birth of > 32 weeks and <36 weeks and presented a corrected gestational age of 36 completed weeks during a 27-day birth follow-up. Premature infants with major congenital anomalies were excluded. We analyzed associations among EUGR, VTI and covariables related to maternal disease, birth characteristics, perinatal morbidities and clinical practices. Results: out of the 91 premature infants, 59.3% (CI95%=48.9-69.0%) developed EUGR. VTI were observed in 4.4%o of the population; all premature infants affected by VTI had EUGR. The VTI found were syphilis, cytomegalovirus disease and toxoplasmosis. The final analysis has showed a positive association between VTI and EUGR (RR=1.57; CI95%o=1.07-2.30); the female covariables (RR=1.50; CI95%=1.11-2.02), moderate premature classification (RR=1.41; CI95%=1.06-1.87) and small for gestational age (RR=2.69; CI95% 1.853.90) have also influenced this outcome. Conclusion: this study revealed VTI as an important morbidity factor, with impact on the increased risk of EUGR between premature infants affected by these diseases.

Resumo Objetivos: investigar associação das Infecções de Transmissão Vertical (ITV) com a Restrição do Crescimento Extrauterino (RCEU) entre prematuros em Unidades de Terapia Intensiva Neonatal (UTIN). Métodos: recorte de um estudo de coorte não concorrente, com análise em prontuários. Avaliou-se a ocorrência de RCEU em prematuros que tiveram a idade gestacional de nascimento^ 32 semanas e < 36 semanas e que apresentaram idade gestacional corrigida de 36 semanas completas dentro do período de acompanhamento de 27 dias de vida.Foram excluídos os prematuros com anomalias congênitas maiores. Analisou-se associações entre RCEU, as ITV e as covariáveis relacionadas à doença materna, características do nascimento, morbidades perinatais e práticas clínicas. Resultados: dos 91 prematuros, 59,3% (IC95%o 48,9-69,0%o) desenvolveram RCEU. As ITVforam observadas em 4,4%o da população; todos os prematuros acometidos por ITV apresentaram RCEU. As ITV encontradas foram sífilis, citomegalovirose e toxoplasmose. A análise final demonstrou associação positiva das ITV com RCEU (RR=1,57; IC95%o= 1,072,30); as covariáveis sexo feminino (RR=1,50; IC95%o= 1,11-2,02), classificação prematuro moderado (RR=1,41; IC95%o=1,06-1,87) e pequeno para a idade gestacional (RR=2,69; IC95%1,85-3,90) também influenciaram este desfecho. Conclusão: este estudo revelou as ITV como importante fator de morbidade, com impacto no aumento do risco de RCEU entre prematuros acometidos por essas doenças.

Perfil epidemiológico da sífilis adquirida em pacientes de um laboratório clínico universitário em Goiânia-GO, no período de 2017 a 2019 / Epidemiological profile of syphilis acquired in patients of a university clinical laboratory in Goiânia-GO from 2017 to 2019

Objetivo: A sífilis é uma doença infectocontagiosa, transmitida pela via sexual e verticalmente durante a gestação. Quando não tratada adequadamente, a doença pode permanecer no organismo por grandes períodos sem sintomas clínicos, pode evoluir atingindo múltiplos sistemas do organismo. O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar o perfil epidemiológico de usuários do Laboratório Clínico da PUC Goiás, com casos confirmados de sífilis adquirida, no período de 2017 a 2019. Métodos: Trata-se de uma pesquisa retrospectiva, a partir da análise dos resultados dos exames de VDRL e FTA-Abs no banco de dados eletrônico do laboratório. Resultados: Um total de 8.884 exames de rastreamento para sífilis adquirida foi solicitado neste período. Deste total, 11,1%, 17,2% e 10,9% apresentaram resultados reagentes no VDRL, respectivamente, nos anos de 2017, 2018 e 2019. Um percentual de 78,7% dos exames positivos para sífilis (VDRL) foi confirmado pelo teste treponêmico FTA-Abs (IgG). Em 2017, 32,45% dos exames foram reagentes para FTA-abs; 7,95% em 2018, e 9,3% em 2019. Os resultados desta pesquisa evidenciam uma maior prevalência de casos de sífilis adquirida em adultos jovens do sexo masculino (47,9%/2017; 72,9%/2018; 63,0%/2019) com baixa escolaridade. Conclusão: Nos últimos anos, a sífilis tem se tornado um grande problema de saúde pública, visto o seu aumento a cada ano, mesmo com tratamento simples e diagnóstico rápido. Medidas de controle, principalmente voltadas para o tratamento adequado do paciente e parceiro, uso de preservativo, informação à população devem ser fortalecidas pelos programas de saúde para controle da sífilis na população estudada.

Objective: Syphilis is an infectious disease, transmitted sexually and vertically during pregnancy. When not treated properly, the disease can remain in the organism for long periods without clinical symptoms, it can evolve reaching multiple systems. The objective of this study was to determine the epidemiological profile of users of the Clinical Laboratory of PUC Goiás, with confirmed cases of acquired syphilis, in the period from 2017 to 2019. Methods: This is a retrospective research, based on the analysis of the results of the VDRL exams and FTA-Abs in the laboratory's electronic database. Results: A total of 8,884 screening tests for acquired syphilis were ordered during this period. Of this total, 11.1%, 17.2% and 10.9% had positive results in the VDRL, respectively, in the years 2017, 2018 and 2019. A percentage of 78.7% of the positive tests for syphilis (VDRL) were confirmed by the FTA-Abs (IgG) treponemic test. In 2017, 32.45% of the tests were reactive for FTA-abs; 7.95% in 2018, and 9.3% in 2019. The results of this research show a higher prevalence of cases of acquired syphilis in young male adults (47.9% / 2017; 72.9% / 2018; 63,0% / 2019) with low education. Conclusion: In recent years, syphilis has become a major public health problem, as it increases every year, even with simple treatment and rapid diagnosis. Control measures, mainly aimed at the adequate treatment of the patient and partner, use of condoms, information to the population must be strengthened by health programs for syphilis control in the studied population.

Small vessel occlusion and syphilis in patients with first-ever ischemic stroke / Oclusão de pequenos vasos e sífilis em pacientes com o primeiro acidente vascular cerebral isquêmico

ABSTRACT Background: Syphilis is an endemic disease, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, with vascular involvement in large vessels (aortitis), but no clear relationship with stroke patients, except for those who presented with meningovascular neurosyphilis. Objective: To investigate the relationship between a positive history of syphilis determined by serological testing and ischemic stroke etiology, particularly small vessel disease (SVD). Methods: In total, 269 first-ever ischemic stroke patients admitted to the stroke unit were tested for syphilis. Patients with neurosyphilis were excluded. All patients were classified according to the ASCOD phenotyping as SVD — when SVD was the potential causal mechanism (S1) — or non-SVD — when SVD was uncertain (S2), unlike (S3), or not detected (S0). Results: Syphilis was positive in 32 (12%) patients. When comparing patients with positive and negative serology, the only significant difference was SVD as the causal mechanism (S1) in patients with positive results: 9 (28%) vs. 22 (9%), p<0.01. Conclusion: The current study showed that the frequency of positive syphilis serological test was higher in patients with first-ever ischemic stroke and SVD as the potential causal mechanism. This finding could be related to the endothelial dysfunction occurring in syphilis.

RESUMO Introdução: A sífilis é uma doença endêmica, especialmente em países de baixa e média renda, com acometimento vascular descrito em grandes vasos (aortite), porém nenhuma relação clara foi reconhecida em paciente com acidente vascular cerebral, exceto para aqueles com sífilis meningovascular. Objetivos: Investigar a relação entre história positiva de sífilis determinada pelo status sorológico e o mecanismo do acidente vascular cerebral isquêmico, particularmente doença de pequenos vasos. Métodos: Ao todo, 269 pacientes com AVC isquêmico foram testados para sífilis. Pacientes com diagnóstico de neurossífilis foram excluídos. Todos os pacientes foram classificados segundo o fenótipo ASCOD quando a doença de pequenos vasos era o mecanismo causal provável (S1) ou não-pequenos vasos quando este mecanismo era incerto (S2), pouco provável (S3) ou não detectado (S0). Resultados: O teste para sífilis foi positivo em 32 (12%) pacientes. Quando comparados, pacientes com sorologia positiva e o grupo com teste não reagente, a única diferença significativa foi a doença de pequenos vasos como mecanismo causal (S1) em pacientes com sorologia positiva: 9 (28%) vs. 22 (9%), p<0.01. Conclusão: O presente estudo mostra que o teste sorológico positivo para sífilis tem maior ocorrência em pacientes com o primeiro AVC isquêmico com a doença de pequenos vasos como um mecanismo causal possível. Tal achado pode estar relacionado à disfunção endotelial que ocorre durante a sífilis.

Human immunodeficiency virus infection and syphilis among homeless people in a large city of Central-Western Brazil: prevalence, risk factors, human immunodeficiency virus-1 genetic diversity, and drug resistance mutations

ABSTRACT Homeless people are at high risk for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and syphilis. We investigated the epidemiology of HIV-1 infection and syphilis among homeless individuals in a large city in Central-Western Brazil. In this cross-sectional study, we interviewed and tested 355 individuals from September 2014 to August 2015. Rapid test samples positive for syphilis were retested using the Venereal Disease Research Laboratory (VDRL) test. Blood samples from HIV-infected participants were collected for POL sequencing using HIV-1 RNA extracted from plasma, reverse transcription, and nested polymerase chain reaction. Anti-HIV-1-positive samples were subtyped by sequencing the nucleotides of HIV-1 protease and part of the HIV-1 reverse transcriptase genes. Transmitted and acquired drug resistance mutations and susceptibility to antiretroviral drugs were also analyzed. Anti-HIV was positive in 14 patients (3.9%; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.3-6.4). HIV-1 RNA was detected in 8 of the 14 samples. Two of the eight (25%) isolates showed HIV-1 drug resistance mutations. Furthermore, 78 (22%; 95% CI: 17.9-26.5) and 29 (8.2%; 95% CI: 5.6-11.4) homeless individuals tested positive for syphilis using the rapid test and VDRL test, respectively. Two individuals were anti-HIV-1 and VDRL test positive. Daily alcohol use (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 3.2, 95% CI: 1.0-10.4), sex with people living with HIV (PLWH) infection (AOR: 6.8, 95% CI: 1.9-25.0), and sex with people of the same sex (AOR: 5.4, 95% CI: 1.7-17.5) were predictors of HIV infection. Age ≤35 years (AOR: 3.8, 95% CI: 1.4-10.8), previous syphilis testing (AOR: 3.5, 95% CI: 1.4-8.4), history of genital lesions (AOR: 4.9, 95% CI: 1.3-19.1), and crack use in the last six months (AOR: 3.1, 95% CI: 1.3-7.6) were predictors of syphilis. Our findings highlight the importance of STI prevention and control strategies among the homeless.