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Avitabile E, Menotti L, Croatti V, Giordani B, Parolin C, Vitali B. Protective Mechanisms of Vaginal Lactobacilli against Sexually Transmitted Viral Infections. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:9168. [PMID: 39273118 PMCID: PMC11395631 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25179168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2024] [Revised: 08/16/2024] [Accepted: 08/21/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
The healthy cervicovaginal microbiota is dominated by various Lactobacillus species, which support a condition of eubiosis. Among their many functions, vaginal lactobacilli contribute to the maintenance of an acidic pH, produce antimicrobial compounds, and modulate the host immune response to protect against vaginal bacterial and fungal infections. Increasing evidence suggests that these beneficial bacteria may also confer protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) caused by viruses such as human papillomavirus (HPV), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and herpes simplex virus (HSV). Viral STIs pose a substantial public health burden globally, causing a range of infectious diseases with potentially severe consequences. Understanding the molecular mechanisms by which lactobacilli exert their protective effects against viral STIs is paramount for the development of novel preventive and therapeutic strategies. This review aims to provide more recent insights into the intricate interactions between lactobacilli and viral STIs, exploring their impact on the vaginal microenvironment, host immune response, viral infectivity and pathogenesis, and highlighting their potential implications for public health interventions and clinical management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Avitabile
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy
| | - Laura Menotti
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy
| | - Vanessa Croatti
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy
| | - Barbara Giordani
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy
| | - Carola Parolin
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy
| | - Beatrice Vitali
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy
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Lokken EM, Balkus JE, Kiarie J, Hughes JP, Jaoko W, Totten PA, McClelland RS, Manhart LE. Association of Recent Bacterial Vaginosis With Acquisition of Mycoplasma genitalium. Am J Epidemiol 2017; 186:194-201. [PMID: 28472225 DOI: 10.1093/aje/kwx043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2016] [Accepted: 08/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
We assessed the association between recent bacterial vaginosis (BV) and incident Mycoplasma genitalium, a sexually transmitted bacterium associated with adverse female reproductive health outcomes. Female sex workers in Mombasa, Kenya, completed a monthly sexual behavior interview and clinical examination. During February 2005-February 2006, vaginal fluid specimens collected from women every other month were tested for M. genitalium by nucleic acid amplification testing. Vaginal microbiota were assessed monthly and categorized by Nugent score (0-3 = normal microbiota, 4-6 = intermediate microbiota disruption, and 7-10 = BV). A discrete failure time analysis for multiple events using logistic regression was employed to estimate the odds of incident M. genitalium infection at follow-up visits among women with BV (vs. normal microbiota) at the preceding visit. Among the 280 women, 54.3% were positive for human immunodeficiency virus. At baseline, 16.1% had prevalent M. genitalium infection and 40.4% had prevalent BV. There were 59 incident M. genitalium infections among 50 women, for an incidence rate of 34.6 cases per 100 person-years. Following adjustment for age, human immunodeficiency virus status, and time, prior BV was associated with a 3.5-fold increase in odds of incident M. genitalium (adjusted odds ratio = 3.49, 95% confidence interval: 1.86, 6.56). This strong association suggests that BV may enhance susceptibility to M. genitalium infection.
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Kamińska D, Gajecka M. Is the role of human female reproductive tract microbiota underestimated? Benef Microbes 2017; 8:327-343. [PMID: 28504576 DOI: 10.3920/bm2015.0174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
An issue that is currently undergoing extensive study is the influence of human vaginal microbiota (VMB) on the health status of women and their neonates. Healthy women are mainly colonised with lactobacilli such as Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus jensenii, and Lactobacillus iners; however, other bacteria may be elements of the VMB, particularly in women with bacterial vaginosis. The implementation of culture-independent molecular methods in VMB characterisation, especially next-generation sequencing, have provided new information regarding bacterial diversity in the vagina, revealing a large number of novel, fastidious, and/or uncultivated bacterial species. These molecular studies have contributed new insights regarding the role of bacterial community composition. In this study, we discuss recent findings regarding the reproductive tract microbiome. Not only bacteria but also viruses and fungi constitute important components of the reproductive tract microbiome. We focus on aspects related to the impact of the maternal microbiome on foetal development, as well as the establishment of the neonatal microbiomes, including the placenta microbiome, and the haematogenous source of intrauterine infection. We also discuss whether the role of the vaginal microbiome is currently understood and appreciated.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Kamińska
- 1 Department of Genetics and Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Swiecickiego 4, 60-781 Poznan, Poland
| | - M Gajecka
- 1 Department of Genetics and Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Swiecickiego 4, 60-781 Poznan, Poland.,2 Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Strzeszynska 32, 60-479 Poznan, Poland
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Daniels B, Wand H, Ramjee G. Prevalence of Herpes Simplex Virus 2 (HSV-2) infection and associated risk factors in a cohort of HIV negative women in Durban, South Africa. BMC Res Notes 2016; 9:510. [PMID: 27955706 PMCID: PMC5154041 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-016-2319-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2016] [Accepted: 12/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Herpes Simplex Virus 2 (HSV-2) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) worldwide and is a risk factor for the acquisition and transmission of other STIs, including HIV. We determined the prevalence and predictors of HSV-2 infection among women screened for a HIV prevention trial in Durban, South Africa. Univariate and multivariate logistic and Cox regression models were used to determine the correlates and predictors of HSV-2 infection at enrolment and seroconversion during the study respectively. Results Prevalence of HSV-2 at screening was 65% and crude incidence was 22.3 per 100 person-years (PY) (95% CI 20.4–24.3). The HIV seroconversion was significantly higher among those testing positive for HSV-2 at baseline compared to women who were negative [8.7 per 100 person years (PY) versus 5.2 per 100 PY; (p < 0.001)]. In univariate analysis, age was determined to be the most significant predictor for HSV-2 diagnosis, while co-infection with syphilis was also a significant predictor, while age and co-infection with syphilis remained the two most significant predictors of having HSV-2 in multivariate analysis at baseline. Consistent with these results, along with HIV seroconversion, age was also identified as a significant predictor for incidence of HSV-2. Conclusion Given the unacceptably high prevalence and incidence rates of HSV-2 infection reported here, HSV-2 and general STI education needs to be reinforced in these communities, with a focus on condom education for prevention. HSV-2 has emerged as the most prevalent STI which is most often asymptomatic and unrecognized, and which increases women’s risk of acquiring other STIs, including HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brodie Daniels
- HIV Prevention Research Unit, Medical Research Council, Durban, South Africa.
| | | | - Gita Ramjee
- HIV Prevention Research Unit, Medical Research Council, Durban, South Africa
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Magaret AS, Mujugira A, Hughes JP, Lingappa J, Bukusi EA, DeBruyn G, Delany-Moretlwe S, Fife KH, Gray GE, Kapiga S, Karita E, Mugo NR, Rees H, Ronald A, Vwalika B, Were E, Celum C, Wald A. Effect of Condom Use on Per-act HSV-2 Transmission Risk in HIV-1, HSV-2-discordant Couples. Clin Infect Dis 2015; 62:456-61. [PMID: 26578538 DOI: 10.1093/cid/civ908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2015] [Accepted: 10/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The efficacy of condoms for protection against transmission of herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) has been examined in a variety of populations with different effect measures. Often the efficacy has been assessed as change in hazard of transmission with consistent vs inconsistent use, independent of the number of acts. Condom efficacy has not previously measured on a per-act basis. METHODS We examined the per-act HSV-2 transmission rates with and without condom use among 911 African HSV-2 and human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) serodiscordant couples followed for an average of 18 months in an HIV prevention study. Infectivity models were used to associate the log10 probability of HSV-2 transmission over monthly risk periods with reported numbers of protected and unprotected sex acts. Condom efficacy was computed as the proportionate reduction in transmission risk for protected relative to unprotected sex acts. RESULTS Transmission of HSV-2 occurred in 68 couples, including 17 with susceptible women and 51 with susceptible men. The highest rate of transmission was from men to women: 28.5 transmissions per 1000 unprotected sex acts. We found that condoms were differentially protective against HSV-2 transmission by sex; condom use reduced per-act risk of transmission from men to women by 96% (P < .001) and marginally from women to men by 65% (P = .060). CONCLUSIONS Condoms are recommended as an effective preventive method for heterosexual transmission of HSV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amalia S Magaret
- Department of Laboratory Medicine Department of Biostatistics Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center
| | - Andrew Mujugira
- Department of Global Health Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington
| | - James P Hughes
- Department of Biostatistics Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center
| | - Jairam Lingappa
- Department of Global Health Department of Pediatrics Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle
| | - Elizabeth A Bukusi
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Nairobi
| | | | - Sinead Delany-Moretlwe
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Kenneth H Fife
- Department of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis
| | - Glenda E Gray
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Saidi Kapiga
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom
| | - Etienne Karita
- Rwanda-Zambia HIV Research Group, Kigali, Rwanda, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Nelly R Mugo
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Nairobi
| | - Helen Rees
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Allan Ronald
- Department of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada Infectious Disease Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Bellington Vwalika
- Rwanda-Zambia HIV Research Group, Kigali, Rwanda, Lusaka, Zambia Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Zambia, School of Medicine, Lusaka
| | - Edwin Were
- Department of Reproductive Health, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Connie Celum
- Department of Global Health Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle
| | - Anna Wald
- Department of Laboratory Medicine Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle
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Petrova MI, Lievens E, Malik S, Imholz N, Lebeer S. Lactobacillus species as biomarkers and agents that can promote various aspects of vaginal health. Front Physiol 2015; 6:81. [PMID: 25859220 PMCID: PMC4373506 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2015.00081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 303] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2014] [Accepted: 03/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The human body is colonized by a vast number of microorganisms collectively referred to as the human microbiota. One of the main microbiota body sites is the female genital tract, commonly dominated by Lactobacillus spp., in approximately 70% of women. Each individual species can constitute approximately 99% of the ribotypes observed in any individual woman. The most frequently isolated species are Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus gasseri, Lactobacillus jensenii and Lactobacillus iners. Residing at the port of entry of bacterial and viral pathogens, the vaginal Lactobacillus species can create a barrier against pathogen invasion since mainly products of their metabolism secreted in the cervicovaginal fluid can play an important role in the inhibition of bacterial and viral infections. Therefore, a Lactobacillus-dominated microbiota appears to be a good biomarker for a healthy vaginal ecosystem. This balance can be rapidly altered during processes such as menstruation, sexual activity, pregnancy and various infections. An abnormal vaginal microbiota is characterized by an increased diversity of microbial species, leading to a condition known as bacterial vaginosis. Information on the vaginal microbiota can be gathered from the analysis of cervicovaginal fluid, by using the Nugent scoring or the Amsel's criteria, or at the molecular level by investigating the number and type of Lactobacillus species. However, when translating this to the clinical setting, it should be noted that the absence of a Lactobacillus-dominated microbiota does not appear to directly imply a diseased condition or dysbiosis. Nevertheless, the widely documented beneficial role of vaginal Lactobacillus species demonstrates the potential of data on the composition and activity of lactobacilli as biomarkers for vaginal health. The substantiation and further validation of such biomarkers will allow the design of better targeted probiotic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariya I Petrova
- Department of Bioscience Engineering, University of Antwerp Antwerp, Belgium ; Centre of Microbial and Plant Genetics, KU Leuven Leuven, Belgium
| | - Elke Lievens
- Department of Bioscience Engineering, University of Antwerp Antwerp, Belgium ; Centre of Microbial and Plant Genetics, KU Leuven Leuven, Belgium
| | - Shweta Malik
- Department of Bioscience Engineering, University of Antwerp Antwerp, Belgium ; Centre of Microbial and Plant Genetics, KU Leuven Leuven, Belgium
| | - Nicole Imholz
- Department of Bioscience Engineering, University of Antwerp Antwerp, Belgium ; Centre of Microbial and Plant Genetics, KU Leuven Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sarah Lebeer
- Department of Bioscience Engineering, University of Antwerp Antwerp, Belgium ; Centre of Microbial and Plant Genetics, KU Leuven Leuven, Belgium
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McClelland RS, Balkus JE, Lee J, Anzala O, Kimani J, Schwebke J, Bragg V, Lensing S, Kavak L. Randomized Trial of Periodic Presumptive Treatment With High-Dose Intravaginal Metronidazole and Miconazole to Prevent Vaginal Infections in HIV-negative Women. J Infect Dis 2014; 211:1875-82. [PMID: 25526757 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiu818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2014] [Accepted: 12/12/2014] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vaginal infections are common, frequently recur, and may increase women's risk for sexually transmitted infections (STIs). We tested the efficacy of a novel regimen to prevent recurrent vaginal infections. METHODS Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-negative women 18-45 years old with 1 or more vaginal infections, including bacterial vaginosis (BV), vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), or Trichomonas vaginalis (TV), were randomly assigned to receive vaginal suppositories containing metronidazole 750 mg plus miconazole 200 mg or matching placebo for 5 consecutive nights each month for 12 months. Primary endpoints, evaluated every 2 months, were BV (Gram stain) and VVC (positive wet mount and culture). RESULTS Participants (N = 234) were randomly assigned to the intervention (N = 118) or placebo (N = 116) arm. Two hundred seventeen (93%) women completed an end-of-study evaluation. The intervention reduced the proportion of visits with BV compared to placebo (21.2% vs 32.5%; relative risk [RR] 0.65, 95% confidence interval [CI] .48-.87). In contrast, the proportion of visits with VVC was similar in the intervention (10.4%) versus placebo (11.3%) arms (RR 0.92, 95% CI .62-1.37). CONCLUSIONS Monthly treatment with intravaginal metronidazole plus miconazole reduced the proportion of visits with BV during 12 months of follow-up. Further study will be important to determine whether this intervention can reduce women's risk of STIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Scott McClelland
- Department of Medicine Department of Epidemiology Department of Global Health, University of Washington Institute of Tropical and Infectious Diseases
| | - Jennifer E Balkus
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington Department of Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington
| | - Jeannette Lee
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock
| | - Omu Anzala
- Kenya AIDS Vaccine Initiative, University of Nairobi
| | | | - Jane Schwebke
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham
| | | | - Shelly Lensing
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock
| | - Lale Kavak
- Embil Pharmaceutical Company, Istanbul, Turkey
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Abstract
There is some evidence that the risk of HIV infection per heterosexual act is higher in low-income countries than in high-income countries. We hypothesize that variations in per sex-act transmission probability of HIV may in part be attributed to differences in the composition and function of the vaginal microbiota between different populations. This paper presents data that are in support of this hypothesis. Experimental and clinical studies have provided evidence that the normal vaginal microbiota plays a protective role against acquisition of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. Epidemiological studies have convincingly shown that disturbances of the vaginal microbiome, namely intermediate flora and bacterial vaginosis, increase the risk of acquisition of HIV infection. A review of the literature found large differences in prevalence of bacterial vaginosis between different populations, with the highest prevalence rates found in black populations. Possible explanations for these differences are presented including data suggesting that there are ethnic differences in the composition of the normal vaginal microbiota. Lastly, interventions are discussed to restore and maintain a healthy vaginal environment.
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Donders GGG, Zodzika J, Rezeberga D. Treatment of bacterial vaginosis: what we have and what we miss. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2014; 15:645-57. [PMID: 24579850 DOI: 10.1517/14656566.2014.881800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The disturbing, foul-smelling discharge of bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a nuisance to women. Treatment possibilities for BV are limited and only achieve complete cure in 65 to 85% of cases. In most women, the condition relapses within weeks to months after treatment. AREAS COVERED In search of new therapeutic actions to cure, prevent or delay recurrences of BV, PubMed and web of science were searched for papers with i) decent study layout, ii) proper statistics, iii) comparison group (placebo or standard treatment) and iv) language English, French, Dutch or German. The following keywords were used: bacterial vaginosis and treatment or management or therapy or prophylaxis or prevention. Results were grouped in treatment categories and were discussed. EXPERT OPINION Clindamycin and metronidazole are the standard drugs for BV. As other antibiotic and acidifying treatments are progressively being studied, like tinidazole, rifaximin, nitrofuran, dequalinium chloride, vitamin C and lactic acid, more options have become available for switching therapy, combining therapies and long-term prophylactic use to prevent recurrences. Further studies are needed. Also, adjuvant therapy with probiotics may have a significant role in improving efficacy and in preventing recurrences. However, it is unlikely that probiotics will replace antibiotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilbert G G Donders
- Femicare, Clinical Research center for Women, Tienen and Departments of Obstetrics and Gynaecology , Tienen , Belgium
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Kapiga SH, Ewings FM, Ao T, Chilongani J, Mongi A, Baisley K, Francis S, Andreasen A, Hashim R, Watson-Jones D, Changalucha J, Hayes R. The epidemiology of HIV and HSV-2 infections among women participating in microbicide and vaccine feasibility studies in Northern Tanzania. PLoS One 2013; 8:e68825. [PMID: 23874780 PMCID: PMC3715536 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0068825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2013] [Accepted: 06/03/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To prepare for future HIV prevention trials, we conducted prospective cohort studies among women working in food and recreational facilities in northern Tanzania. We examined the prevalence and incidence of HIV and HSV-2, and associated risk factors. METHODS Women aged 18-44 years working in food and recreational facilities were screened to determine their eligibility for the studies. Between 2008-2010, HIV-negative women were enrolled and followed for 12 months. At enrolment and 3-monthly, we collected socio-demographic and behavioural data, and performed clinical examinations for collection of biological specimens that were tested for reproductive tract infections. Risk factors for HIV and HSV-2 incidence were investigated using Poisson regression models. RESULTS We screened 2,229 and enrolled 1,378 women. The median age was 27 years (interquartile range, IQR 22, 33), and median duration working at current facility was 2 years. The prevalences of HIV at screening and HSV-2 at enrolment were 16% and 67%, respectively. Attendance at the 12-month visit was 86%. HIV and HSV-2 incidence rates were 3.7 (95% confidence interval, CI: 2.8,5.1) and 28.6 (95% CI: 23.5,35.0)/100 person-years, respectively. Women who were separated, divorced, or widowed were at increased risk of HIV (adjusted incidence rate ratio, aRR = 6.63; 95% CI: 1.97,22.2) and HSV-2 (aRR = 2.00; 95% CI: 1.15,3.47) compared with married women. Women reporting ≥3 partners in the past 3 months were at higher HIV risk compared with women with 0-1 partner (aRR = 4.75; 95% CI: 2.10,10.8), while those who had reached secondary education or above were at lower risk of HSV-2 compared with women with incomplete primary education (aRR = 0.42; 95% CI: 0.22,0.82). CONCLUSIONS HIV and HSV-2 rates remain substantially higher in this cohort than in the general population, indicating urgent need for effective interventions. These studies demonstrate the feasibility of conducting trials to test new interventions in this highly-mobile population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saidi H Kapiga
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom.
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Bernstein DI, Bellamy AR, Hook EW, Levin MJ, Wald A, Ewell MG, Wolff PA, Deal CD, Heineman TC, Dubin G, Belshe RB. Epidemiology, clinical presentation, and antibody response to primary infection with herpes simplex virus type 1 and type 2 in young women. Clin Infect Dis 2012; 56:344-51. [PMID: 23087395 DOI: 10.1093/cid/cis891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 191] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Herpes simplex virus infections type 1 (HSV-1) and type 2 (HSV-2) are common, but the epidemiology of HSV disease is changing. METHODS HSV-seronegative women, aged 18-30 years, who were in the control arm of the HERPEVAC Trial for Women were followed for 20 months for primary HSV infections. RESULTS Of the 3438 evaluable participants, 183 became infected with HSV: 127 (3.7%) with HSV-1 and 56 (1.6%) with HSV-2. The rate of infection for HSV-1 (2.5 per 100 person-years) was more than twice that for HSV-2 (1.1 per 100 person-years). Most infections (74% of HSV-1 and 63% of HSV-2) occurred without recognized signs or symptoms of herpes disease. The HSV-2 infection rate was 2.6 times higher in non-Hispanic black participants than in Hispanics and 5.5 times higher than in non-Hispanic whites (P < .001), while the HSV-1 infection rate was 1.7 times higher in non-Hispanic whites than non-Hispanic blacks. Younger participants (18-22 years) were more likely to acquire HSV-1 infections and less likely to develop recognized disease than older participants. Overall, 84% of recognized disease cases were genital. No differences were noted in the clinical manifestations of genital HSV-1 vs genital HSV-2 disease. The clinicians' assessment that cases were caused by HSV was good when they assessed cases as clinically confirmed or unlikely (validated in 83% and 100% of cases, respectively). CONCLUSIONS HSV-1 is now more common than HSV-2 as a cause of oral and genital mucosal infections in young women, but there are important age and race differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- David I Bernstein
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Although growing evidence suggests that condoms offer moderate protection against herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), inability to control for unknown or unmeasured confounders associated with sexual activity may reduce the accuracy of the estimates. The case-crossover design offers increased control of individual-level confounders, and was thus used with the aim of producing a more accurate estimate of the effect of condom use on HSV-2 acquisition. METHODS Data were pooled from 6 prospective studies that measured HSV-2 status at enrollment and over follow-up, and included periodic self-reported condom use and sexual activity. Sexual activity contemporaneous with acquisition was assigned to a case period; earlier sexual activity was assigned to a control period. Conditional logistic regression was used to assess differences in behavior during the case and control periods. RESULTS One hundred ninety-one eligible participants acquired HSV-2 during follow-up. This approach detected a 3.6% increase in the odds of HSV-2 acquisition with each unprotected act (odds ratio = 1.036; 95% confidence interval: 1.021-1.052), but no increase in the odds of acquisition associated with protected acts (odds ratio = 1.008; 95% confidence interval: 0.987-1.030). CONCLUSIONS This analysis suggests that condoms offer significant protection against HSV-2 transmission.
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Incidence, prevalence, and epidemiology of herpes simplex virus-2 in HIV-1-positive and HIV-1-negative adolescents. Sex Transm Dis 2012; 39:300-5. [PMID: 22421698 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0b013e318244a90f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several studies have assessed risk factors associated with herpes simplex virus-2 (HSV-2) prevalence in adults; however, few have focused on HSV-2 incidence, particularly in adolescents. The objective of this study was to determine HSV-2 prevalence and incidence and associated risk factors in a HIV-1-positive and at risk HIV-1-negative adolescent population. METHODS Sera were tested for HSV-2 antibodies in 518 adolescents in the Reaching for Excellence in Adolescent Care and Health cohort at baseline and again at the final follow-up visit. Prevalence at baseline and incidence (per person years) of HSV-2 infection were calculated. Furthermore, among HIV-1-positive individuals, a subgroup analysis was performed to assess risk factors for HSV-2 infection. Conditional logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios and P values for associations between CD4+ T-cell (CD4+) count, HIV-1 viral load (VL), and HSV-2 acquisition, adjusting for antiretroviral therapy use, other sexually transmitted infections, gender, race, and number of sexual partners. RESULTS At baseline, 179 (35%) subjects were HSV-2 positive, with an additional 47 (16%) new cases being identified during a median follow-up time of 1.95 years and an incidence rate of 7.35 cases per 100 person years. Several risk factors were associated with HSV-2 prevalence (being female, non-Hispanic, uncertainty of sexual preference, and HIV-1 positive) and incidence (using drugs, alcohol, and number of new sexual partners). Among HIV-1 positives, an increase in CD4+ count by 50 cell/mm(3) (odds ratio, 1.17; 95% CI, 1.04-1.31, P = 0.008) was associated with HSV-2 acquisition. CONCLUSIONS The high prevalence and incidence of HSV-2 infection among adolescents, compared with the general population at this age group suggests a critical need for screening and preventive programs among this targeted group.
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National estimates of seroincidence and seroprevalence for herpes simplex virus type 1 and type 2 among US military adults aged 18 to 29 years. Sex Transm Dis 2012; 39:241-50. [PMID: 22421688 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0b013e3182401a17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While population-based seroprevalence studies of herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and type 2 (HSV-2) are widespread, seroincidence studies are largely limited to select or high-risk populations. The US military offers a potential population to derive national seroincidence rate estimates for young adults (ages 18-29). METHODS We used banked, longitudinal serum specimens collected in a cohort of 1094 military personnel aged 18 to 30 years who served between 1989 and 2005 to estimate national HSV-1 and HSV-2 seroincidence and seroprevalence for the young, adult military population, weighted according to the US Census. Serum was tested with indirect ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay). RESULTS Estimated national seroincidence rates for the US young, adult military population were 9.1 per 100 person-years (95% confidence interval: 4.6-13.5) for HSV-1 and 6.2 (95% confidence interval: 3.1-9.3) for HSV-2. Female sex and black race were associated with significantly higher HSV-2 seroconversion rates. Our estimated HSV1/2 seroprevalences were comparable to US national data provided by National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys' serosurveys except for non-Hispanic blacks and Hispanics. CONCLUSION Although these US 2000 Census-weighted estimates of HSV-1 and HSV-2 seroincidence apply only to young, military adults, they nonetheless supply, to our knowledge, the only national figures that might be used to predict US national HSV1/2 seroincidence in young adults. Thus, we believe that our findings in this military population can be used to inform the planning of HSV-1 and 2 prevention measures in the general, young-adult US population.
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Sherrard J, Donders G, White D, Jensen JS. European (IUSTI/WHO) guideline on the management of vaginal discharge, 2011. Int J STD AIDS 2012; 22:421-9. [PMID: 21795415 DOI: 10.1258/ijsa.2011.011012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Three common infections are associated with vaginal discharge: bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis and candidiasis, of which trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI). This guideline covers the presentation and clinical findings of these infections and outlines the differential diagnoses. Recommendations for investigation and management based on currently available evidence are made, including the management of persistent and recurrent infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Sherrard
- Department of Genitourinary Medicine, Churchill Hospital, Oxford, UK.
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Madhivanan P, Chen YH, Krupp K, Arun A, Klausner JD, Reingold AL. Incidence of herpes simplex virus type 2 in young reproductive age women in Mysore, India. INDIAN J PATHOL MICR 2011; 54:96-9. [PMID: 21393886 DOI: 10.4103/0377-4929.77336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT There are sparse data on herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infection in India. HSV-2 is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections and the primary cause of genital ulcer disease worldwide. AIM The aim of this study is to describe the incidence of HSV-2 infection among young reproductive age women in Mysore, India. SETTING AND DESIGN Between October 2005 and April 2006, 898 women were enrolled into a prospective cohort study in Mysore, India, and followed quarterly for 6 months. MATERIALS AND METHODS An interviewer administered questionnaire was used to collect demographic and social risk factors, and physical examination was conducted for collection of biological specimens to screen for reproductive tract infections at each visit. Serologic testing was conducted for the presence of HSV-2 antibodies using HerpeSelect HSV-2 enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED Data were analyzed using R. Incidence density rates were calculated using Poisson distributions with person-time of follow-up as denominator. Person-time was calculated as time from enrollment until time of first positive HSV-2 test. RESULTS There were 107 women with HSV-2 antibodies leaving 700 women with negative results at enrollment. The analysis included 696 out of which, there were 36 HSV-2 seroconversions during the study period. The study cohort accumulated roughly 348 woman-years of follow-up, yielding an HSV-2 acquisition rate of 10.4 cases/100 woman-years. All detected infections were asymptomatic. CONCLUSIONS HSV-2 incidence is moderate in this community sample of young reproductive age monogamous women. More research is needed to establish incidence estimates in different Indian settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Purnima Madhivanan
- Public Health Research Institute of India, 89/B, 2nd Cross, 2nd Main, Mysore - 570 020, Karnataka, India.
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Diagnosis and management of bacterial vaginosis and other types of abnormal vaginal bacterial flora: a review. Obstet Gynecol Surv 2010; 65:462-73. [PMID: 20723268 DOI: 10.1097/ogx.0b013e3181e09621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common cause of abnormal vaginal discharge. It is characterised by an overgrowth of predominantly anaerobic organisms (Gardnerella vaginalis, Prevotella spp., Peptostreptocci, Mobiluncus spp.) in the vagina leading to a replacement of lactobacilli and an increase in vaginal pH. BV can arise and remit spontaneously, but often presents as a chronic or recurrent disease. BV is found most often in women of childbearing age, but may also be encountered in menopausal women, and is rather rare in children. The clinical and microscopic features and diagnosis of BV are herein reviewed, and antibiotic and non-antibiotic treatment approaches discussed. TARGET AUDIENCE Obstetricians & Gynecologists, Family Physicians. LEARNING OBJECTIVES After completion of this educational activity, the participant should be better able to analyze bacterial vaginosis clinically, formulate an oral antibiotic treatment regimen for bacterial vaginosis and use vaginal treatments for bacterial vaginosis.
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Socio-demographic and behavioral correlates of herpes simplex virus type 1 and 2 infections and co-infections among adults in the USA. Int J Infect Dis 2010; 14 Suppl 3:e154-60. [PMID: 20418142 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2009.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2009] [Revised: 12/09/2009] [Accepted: 12/11/2009] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Although herpes simplex virus (HSV)-1 and HSV-2 may co-exist and interact, some epidemiologic features including geographical distribution, secular trends, route of transmission, and established risk factors may distinguish these HSV sub-types. With recent data indicating a link between genital herpes and either strain, a re-evaluation of risk factors for HSV-1/HSV-2 infection and co-infection is needed. METHODS We used the 1999-2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Study (NHANES) data and logistic regression modeling to identify socio-demographic and behavioral risk factors that can independently predict HSV-1/HSV-2 infection and co-infection. RESULTS Approximately 48% were positive for HSV-1 alone, 7% were positive for HSV-2 alone and 12% were co-infected with HSV-1 and HSV-2. History of genital herpes was found in individuals infected with either or both HSV sub-types. Whereas age, sex, race, and level of education independently predicted all three outcomes, lifetime sexual activity as well as use of tobacco products and recreational drugs mainly correlated with HSV-2 infection and HSV-1/HSV-2 co-infection. Lifetime use of alcohol was not consistently associated with HSV-1/HSV-2 infection and co-infection. CONCLUSIONS Sexual activity played an important role for HSV-2 and was potentially important for HSV-1, with implications for healthcare practice and vaccine development.
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Vaginal microbiota and the use of probiotics. Interdiscip Perspect Infect Dis 2009; 2008:256490. [PMID: 19343185 PMCID: PMC2662373 DOI: 10.1155/2008/256490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2008] [Revised: 10/31/2008] [Accepted: 11/18/2008] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The human vagina is inhabited by a range of microbes from a pool of over 50 species. Lactobacilli are the most common, particularly in healthy women. The microbiota can change composition rapidly, for reasons that are not fully clear. This can lead to infection or to a state in which organisms with pathogenic potential coexist with other commensals. The most common urogenital infection in premenopausal women is bacterial vaginosis (BV), a condition characterized by a depletion of lactobacilli population and the presence of Gram-negative anaerobes, or in some cases Gram-positive cocci, and aerobic pathogens. Treatment of BV traditionally involves the antibiotics metronidazole or clindamycin, however, the recurrence rate remains high, and this treatment is not designed to restore the lactobacilli. In vitro studies have shown that Lactobacillus strains can disrupt BV and yeast biofilms and inhibit the growth of urogenital pathogens. The use of probiotics to populate the vagina and prevent or treat infection has been considered for some time, but only quite recently have data emerged to show efficacy, including supplementation of antimicrobial treatment to improve cure rates and prevent recurrences.
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