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Kulshrestha S, Redhu R, Dua R, Gupta R, Gupta P, Gupta S, Narad P, Sengupta A. 16S rRNA female reproductive microbiome investigation reveals Dalfopristin, Clorgyline, and Hydrazine as potential therapeutics for the treatment of bacterial vaginosis. Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis 2024; 109:116349. [PMID: 38744093 DOI: 10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2024.116349] [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: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a prevalent vaginal illness resulting from a disruption in the vaginal microbial equilibrium. The vaginal microbiota has been shown to have a substantial impact on the development and continuation of BV. This work utilized 16S rRNA sequence analysis of vaginal microbiome samples (Control vs BV samples) utilizing Parallel-Meta 3 to investigate the variations in microbial composition. The unique genes identified were used to determine prospective therapeutic targets and their corresponding inhibitory ligands. Further, molecular docking was conducted and then MD simulations were carried out to confirm the docking outcomes. In the BV samples, we detected several anaerobic bacteria recognized for their ability to generate biofilms, namely Acetohalobium, Anaerolineaceae, Desulfobacteraceae, and others. Furthermore, we identified Dalfopristin, Clorgyline, and Hydrazine as potential therapeutic options for the management of BV. This research provides new insights into the causes of BV and shows the potential effectiveness of novel pharmacological treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudeepti Kulshrestha
- Systems Biology and Data Analytics Research Lab, Centre for Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida, India
| | - Ritu Redhu
- Systems Biology and Data Analytics Research Lab, Centre for Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida, India
| | - Riya Dua
- Systems Biology and Data Analytics Research Lab, Centre for Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida, India
| | - Romasha Gupta
- CSIR Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology, New Delhi, India
| | - Payal Gupta
- Systems Biology and Data Analytics Research Lab, Centre for Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida, India
| | - Somesh Gupta
- Department of Dermatology & Venereology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Priyanka Narad
- Division of Biomedical Informatics (BMI), Indian Council of Medical Research, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi, India
| | - Abhishek Sengupta
- Systems Biology and Data Analytics Research Lab, Centre for Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida, India.
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Mulinganya MG, De Keyser K, Mongane IJ, Kampara MF, De Vulder A, Boelens J, Duyvejonck H, Hendwa E, Kujirakwinja BY, Bisimwa BG, Rodriguez A, Vaneechoutte M, Callens S, Cools P. Second trimester vaginal Candida colonization among pregnant women attending antenatal care in Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo: prevalence, clinical correlates, risk factors and pregnancy outcomes. Front Glob Womens Health 2024; 5:1339821. [PMID: 38847001 PMCID: PMC11153668 DOI: 10.3389/fgwh.2024.1339821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Vaginal Candida colonization (CC) can lead to vulvovaginal candidiasis, the second most prevalent vaginal condition worldwide, and has been associated with adverse birth outcomes. However, no data on CC in the Democratic Republic of the Congo are available. We investigated the prevalence, Candida species, clinical correlates, risk factors and pregnancy outcomes in women with CC in the second trimester of pregnancy. Material and methods In Bukavu, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, pregnant women were recruited during antenatal care between 16 and 20 weeks of gestation from January 2017 to October 2017 and followed until delivery. Sociodemographics, sexual behavioral, hygienic and clinical characteristics, microbiological data and pregnancy outcomes were collected. Candida detection and speciation was performed with microscopy (Gram-stained smears and wet-mount) and/or quantitative PCR. Multivariate regression models were used to estimate the different associations with CC. Results The prevalence of CC by wet mount, microscopy of Gram-stain smears and qPCR was 27.9%, 28.1% and 38.2%, respectively. C. albicans was the most prevalent Candida species (91.0%). Previous genital infections, an intermediate vaginal microbiota, bacterial vaginosis, and the use of pit toilets were risk factors for CC. Clinically, CC was associated with itching only. Women with CC had twice the odds for preterm birth, if Candida concentration was high, the odds were four times higher. Conclusions In Bukavu, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the prevalence of CC was high and associated with microbiological and modifiable risk factors. Screening and treatment for CC during antenatal care should be investigated as a possible strategy to reduce preterm birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mulumeoderhwa Guy Mulinganya
- Faculty of Medicine, Catholic University of Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hôpital Provincial Général de Référence de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Karen De Keyser
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Irenge Jules Mongane
- Faculty of Medicine, Catholic University of Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hôpital Provincial Général de Référence de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Mirindi Freddy Kampara
- Faculty of Medicine, Catholic University of Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hôpital Provincial Général de Référence de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Annelies De Vulder
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jerina Boelens
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Hans Duyvejonck
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Erick Hendwa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hôpital Provincial Général de Référence de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Bisimwa Yvette Kujirakwinja
- Faculty of Medicine, Catholic University of Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hôpital Provincial Général de Référence de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | | | - Antonio Rodriguez
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Mario Vaneechoutte
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Steven Callens
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Piet Cools
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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Balle C, Happel AU, Heffron R, Jaspan HB. Contraceptive effects on the cervicovaginal microbiome: Recent evidence including randomized trials. Am J Reprod Immunol 2023; 90:e13785. [PMID: 37881121 PMCID: PMC10696626 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Until recently, most data regarding the effects of non-barrier contraceptives on the mucosal microbiome have derived from observational studies, which are potentially biased due to behavioral confounders that may mask their true biological effects. METHOD OF STUDY This narrative review summarises recent evidence of the effect of contraceptives on the cervicovaginal microbiome, emphasising data obtained through randomized trials. RESULTS Good quality data describe that initiation of long-acting progestin-only contraceptives, including levonorgestrel (LNG)-implant and the injectables depot-medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA-IM) and norethisterone enanthate (NET-EN) do not alter the mucosal microbial environment. Likewise, no strong evidence exists that the use of oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) is associated with alterations of the vaginal microbiome or increased risk of bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Limited data on the effect of intravaginal rings (IVRs) on the mucosal environment exist and show conflicting effects on the vaginal microbiota. Copper intrauterine device (Cu-IUD) initiation has been associated with bacterial vaginosis (BV) acquisition, including in a randomized trial. LNG-IUDs may have similar affects but need to be evaluated further. CONCLUSION Different synthetic hormones have divergent effects on the microbiome and therefore novel hormonal methods need to be rigorously evaluated. Furthermore, the addition of antiretrovirals into multipurpose technologies may alter the effects of the hormonal component. There is thus a critical need to improve our understanding of the biological effects of contraceptive hormones and delivery methods with different pharmacokinetic and chemical properties on the mucosal microbiome in rigorous trials, to inform the development of novel contraceptives and improve individual family planning guidance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Balle
- Division of Immunology, Department of Pathology, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Anna-Ursula Happel
- Division of Immunology, Department of Pathology, University of Cape Town, South Africa
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Renee Heffron
- University of Washington Department of Global Health, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Heather B. Jaspan
- Division of Immunology, Department of Pathology, University of Cape Town, South Africa
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, South Africa
- University of Washington Department of Global Health, Seattle, WA, USA
- Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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Roxby AC, Mugo NR, Oluoch LM, Tapia K, Wang M, Selke S, Chohan B, Micheni M, Sycuro L, Yuh T, Casmir E, Kimani E, Maina SG, Kiptinness C, Ngure K, Wald A. Low prevalence of bacterial vaginosis in Kenyan adolescent girls and rapid incidence after first sex. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2023; 229:282.e1-282.e11. [PMID: 37391005 PMCID: PMC10530291 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2023.06.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bacterial vaginosis is a risk factor for sexually transmitted infections, including HIV. Adult African women have a high prevalence of bacterial vaginosis, but it is not known when first bacterial vaginosis occurs. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to describe bacterial vaginosis in younger African women, before and after first sex, and to determine the incidence of bacterial vaginosis and significant correlates of bacterial vaginosis incidence and recurrence. STUDY DESIGN In a prospective observational cohort study enrolling adolescents with limited sexual experience, young women aged 16 to 21 years were recruited in Thika, Kenya. Eligible participants were HIV and herpes simplex virus 2 seronegative and reported 0 or 1 lifetime sexual partner. The Nugent score was determined at quarterly visits from vaginal Gram stains. The trends in bacterial vaginosis were described over time; hazard ratios were calculated using Cox regression, and relative risk of bacterial vaginosis was estimated using generalized estimating equations and Poisson regression. RESULTS A total of 400 participants with a median age of 18.6 years (interquartile range, 16-21) were enrolled. Of note, 322 participants (80.5%) reported no history of sex, whereas 78 participants (19.5%) reported sex with 1 partner. At enrollment, bacterial vaginosis (Nugent score of ≥7) was uncommon (21/375 [5.6%]). Overall, 144 participants had bacterial vaginosis at least once, for an incidence rate of 16.5 cases per 100 person-years. Before first sex, bacterial vaginosis was present at 2.8% of visits, compared with 13.7% of visits after first sex. An adjusted model of bacterial vaginosis incidence observed that first sex was associated with more than a 2-fold increased bacterial vaginosis risk (adjusted hazard ratio, 2.44; 95% confidence interval, 1.25-4.76; P=.009). Chlamydia diagnosis (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.73; 95% confidence interval, 1.1-2.8; P=.02), and herpes simplex virus 2 seropositivity (adjusted hazard ratio, 2.88; 95% confidence interval, 1.17-7.09; P=.021) were both associated with incident bacterial vaginosis. A multivariate generalized estimating equation model, including all episodes of bacterial vaginosis, demonstrated risk factors, including first sex, sexually transmitted infections, urban residence, recent sex, and no income; the most important risk factor was first sex (adjusted relative risk, 1.92; 95% confidence interval, 1.12-3.31; P=.018). The probability of bacterial vaginosis increased with each subsequent episode; mean Nugent scores increased after each bacterial vaginosis episode. CONCLUSION Using detailed longitudinal observation, this study found that Kenyan adolescents have almost no bacterial vaginosis before first sex and that initiation of sexual activity was the strongest risk factor for both prevalent bacterial vaginosis and incident bacterial vaginosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison C Roxby
- University of Washington, Seattle, WA; Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA.
| | - Nelly R Mugo
- University of Washington, Seattle, WA; Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | | | | | | | - Bhavna Chohan
- University of Washington, Seattle, WA; Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Murugi Micheni
- University of Washington, Seattle, WA; Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya; National Syndemic Diseases Control Council, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Laura Sycuro
- Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya; University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | | | | | - Edith Kimani
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | | | - Kenneth Ngure
- University of Washington, Seattle, WA; Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya; University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Anna Wald
- University of Washington, Seattle, WA; Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA
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Dabee S, Balle C, Onono M, Innes S, Nair G, Palanee-Phillips T, Burgener AD, Bosinger SE, Passmore JAS, Heffron R, Jaspan H, Happel AU. Update on the Impact of Depot Medroxyprogesterone Acetate on Vaginal Mucosal Endpoints and Relevance to Sexually Transmitted Infections. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2023; 20:251-260. [PMID: 37341916 PMCID: PMC10403392 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-023-00662-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The long-acting reversible intramuscularly-injected contraceptive depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA-IM) is widely used by cisgender women in Africa. Although DMPA-IM provides reliable contraception, potential effects on the female genital tract (FGT) mucosa have raised concern, including risk of HIV infection. This review summarises and compares evidence from observational cohort studies and the randomised Evidence for Contraceptive Options in HIV Outcomes (ECHO) Trial. RECENT FINDINGS Although previous observational studies found women using DMPA-IM had higher abundance of bacterial vaginosis (BV)-associated bacteria, increased inflammation, increased cervicovaginal HIV target cell density, and epithelial barrier damage, sub-studies of the ECHO Trial found no adverse changes in vaginal microbiome, inflammation, proteome, transcriptome, and risk of viral and bacterial STIs, other than an increase in Th17-like cells. Randomised data suggest that DMPA-IM use does not adversely change mucosal endpoints associated with acquisition of infections. These findings support the safe use of DMPA-IM in women at high risk of acquiring STIs, including HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Smritee Dabee
- Center for Global Infectious Disease, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, 307 Westlake Ave. N, Seattle, WA 98109 USA
| | - Christina Balle
- Department of Pathology, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town, 7925 South Africa
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town, 7925 South Africa
| | | | - Steve Innes
- Desmond Tutu Health Foundation, 3 Woodlands Rd, Woodstock, Cape Town, 7915 South Africa
| | - Gonasagrie Nair
- Desmond Tutu Health Foundation, 3 Woodlands Rd, Woodstock, Cape Town, 7915 South Africa
| | - Thesla Palanee-Phillips
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, University of the Witwatersrand, Klein St & Esselen St, Hillbrow, Johannesburg 2001 South Africa
| | - Adam D. Burgener
- Center for Global Health and Diseases, Case Western Reserve University, 10900 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44106 USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Manitoba, 66 Chancellors Cir, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2 Canada
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine Solna, Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital, Visionsgatan 18, L8, 171 76 Solna, Sweden
| | - Steven E. Bosinger
- ENPRC Genomics Core Laboratory, Emory National Primate Research Center, 954 Gatewood Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30329 USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, 2015 Uppergate Dr, Atlanta, GA 30307 USA
- Emory Vaccine Center, Emory University, 7 1st Ave, Atlanta, GA 30317 USA
| | - Jo-Ann S. Passmore
- Department of Pathology, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town, 7925 South Africa
- National Health Laboratory Service, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town, 7925 South Africa
| | - Renee Heffron
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 845 19th Street South, AL 35294-2170 Birmingham, USA
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 1510 San Juan Road NE, Seattle, WA 98195 USA
| | - Heather Jaspan
- Center for Global Infectious Disease, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, 307 Westlake Ave. N, Seattle, WA 98109 USA
- Department of Pathology, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town, 7925 South Africa
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town, 7925 South Africa
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, 1959 NE Pacific St., Seattle, WA 98195 USA
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 1510 San Juan Road NE, Seattle, WA 98195 USA
| | - Anna-Ursula Happel
- Department of Pathology, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town, 7925 South Africa
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town, 7925 South Africa
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Asare K, Ngcapu S, Osman F, Vandormael A, Mindel A, Naicker N, Khanyile M, S Abdool Karim S, Tomita A, Garrett N. Incidence, recurrence, and prevalence of bacterial vaginosis from acute to chronic HIV infection in a prospective cohort of women in South Africa. Ann Epidemiol 2023; 82:33-39. [PMID: 37037344 PMCID: PMC10247472 DOI: 10.1016/j.annepidem.2023.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE We investigated the incidence, recurrence, prevalence, and risk factors for bacterial vaginosis (BV) diagnosis starting from acute HIV infection among South African women. METHODS The Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa 002 study tested and treated women for BV (Nugent score 7-10) once/twice annually from acute to chronic HIV infection (2004-2020). We estimated BV incidence as the number of new cases and recurrence as the number of subsequent diagnoses per 100 person-years (PYs). We fitted Anderson-Gil Cox-proportional-hazard regression models to determine factors associated with BV incidence or recurrence. RESULTS Of 235 participants, the median age at enrollment was 25 years (Inter Quartile Range [IQR] 22-29). BV prevalence at enrollment was 50.6%. BV incidence was 23.9 cases per 100 PYs, and recurrence was 51.3 cases per 100 PYs. BV incidence/recurrence was associated with younger age (<25 years: adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 1.70, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.27-2.27), detectable HIV viral load (aHR 1.54, 95% CI 1.27-1.87) and lower CD4 count (<350 cells/μL: aHR 1.33, 95% CI 1.01-1.76). CONCLUSIONS Our findings underscore the need for early antiretroviral treatment initiation with diagnostic BV and sexually transmitted infection care, especially among younger women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kwabena Asare
- Discipline of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa; Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa; Health Economics and HIV and AIDS Research Division (HEARD), University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa.
| | - Sinaye Ngcapu
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa; Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Farzana Osman
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Alain Vandormael
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Adrian Mindel
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Nivashnee Naicker
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Mlungisi Khanyile
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Salim S Abdool Karim
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa; Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Andrew Tomita
- Centre for Rural Health, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa; KwaZulu-Natal Research Innovation and Sequencing Platform (KRISP), College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Nigel Garrett
- Discipline of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa; Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
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Berard AR, Brubaker DK, Birse K, Lamont A, Mackelprang RD, Noël-Romas L, Perner M, Hou X, Irungu E, Mugo N, Knodel S, Muwonge TR, Katabira E, Hughes SM, Levy C, Calienes FL, Lauffenburger DA, Baeten JM, Celum C, Hladik F, Lingappa J, Burgener AD. Vaginal epithelial dysfunction is mediated by the microbiome, metabolome, and mTOR signaling. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112474. [PMID: 37149863 PMCID: PMC10242450 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is characterized by depletion of Lactobacillus and overgrowth of anaerobic and facultative bacteria, leading to increased mucosal inflammation, epithelial disruption, and poor reproductive health outcomes. However, the molecular mediators contributing to vaginal epithelial dysfunction are poorly understood. Here we utilize proteomic, transcriptomic, and metabolomic analyses to characterize biological features underlying BV in 405 African women and explore functional mechanisms in vitro. We identify five major vaginal microbiome groups: L. crispatus (21%), L. iners (18%), Lactobacillus (9%), Gardnerella (30%), and polymicrobial (22%). Using multi-omics we show that BV-associated epithelial disruption and mucosal inflammation link to the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway and associate with Gardnerella, M. mulieris, and specific metabolites including imidazole propionate. Experiments in vitro confirm that type strain G. vaginalis and M. mulieris supernatants and imidazole propionate directly affect epithelial barrier function and activation of mTOR pathways. These results find that the microbiome-mTOR axis is a central feature of epithelial dysfunction in BV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia R Berard
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 3P5, Canada; Center for Global Health and Diseases, Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Douglas K Brubaker
- Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering and Regenstrief Center for Healthcare Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Kenzie Birse
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 3P5, Canada; Center for Global Health and Diseases, Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Alana Lamont
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 3P5, Canada
| | - Romel D Mackelprang
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98105, USA
| | - Laura Noël-Romas
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 3P5, Canada; Center for Global Health and Diseases, Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Michelle Perner
- Medical Microbiology and Infectious Disease University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0J9, Canada
| | - Xuanlin Hou
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98105, USA
| | - Elizabeth Irungu
- Partners in Health Research and Development, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Mbagathi Road, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Nelly Mugo
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98105, USA; Partners in Health Research and Development, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Mbagathi Road, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Samantha Knodel
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 3P5, Canada; Center for Global Health and Diseases, Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Timothy R Muwonge
- Infectious Disease Institute, Makerere University, Makerere, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Elly Katabira
- Infectious Disease Institute, Makerere University, Makerere, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Sean M Hughes
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Claire Levy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | | | | | - Jared M Baeten
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98105, USA; Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Gilead Sciences, Foster City, CA 94404, USA
| | - Connie Celum
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98105, USA; Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Florian Hladik
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Jairam Lingappa
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98105, USA; Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Adam D Burgener
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 3P5, Canada; Center for Global Health and Diseases, Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Framstegsgatan, 171 64 Solna, Sweden.
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Mojtahedi SF, Mohammadzadeh A, Mohammadzadeh F, Jalili Shahri J, Bahri N. Association between bacterial vaginosis and 25-Hydroxy vitamin D: a case-control study. BMC Infect Dis 2023; 23:208. [PMID: 37024856 PMCID: PMC10080887 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-023-08120-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the most common vaginal dysbiosis among women of reproductive age. Micronutrient deficiencies, including vitamin D deficiency, can increase the risk of BV. The findings of previous studies regarding the relationship between vitamin D deficiency and BV were conflicting. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the association between BV and serum level of 25-hydroxy vitamin D. MATERIALS AND METHODS This case-control study was conducted in Gonabad County in 2021. One hundred and twenty-five confirmed BV cases and 125 controls who were matched based on age and intercourse frequency (maximum difference of two days per week) enrolled in the study. Data collection was performed using a demographic and reproductive data questionnaire and a checklist for recording Whiff test results, serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D level, litmus paper observation, and microscopic findings (clue cells). Serum level of vitamin D was evaluated based on enzyme-linked immunoassay method (Monobind kit) from 0.5 ml venous blood drawn from each participant. The conditional logistic regression model was used to analyze data. RESULTS The BV cases had significantly lower 25-hydroxy vitamin D serum levels than controls. The odds of BV increased with vitamin D deficiency (Adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 4.34, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.39-13.4, p = 0.011, FDR q-value = 0.051), vitamin D insufficiency (AOR: 3.65, 95% CI: 1.23-10.85; p = 0.020; FDR q-value = 0.053), cigarette/hookah smoking (AOR: 3.65, 95% CI: 1.23, 10.85; p = 0.020; FDR q-value = 0.053) and lower age at first intercourse (AOR: 1.16, 95% CI: 1.05, 1.28; p = 0.004; FDR q-value = 0.048). The odds of BV was 0.80 and 0.78 times lower in participants who had coitus interruptus (AOR: 0.20, 95% CI: 0.06, 0.63; p = 0.006; FDR q-value = 0.048) and condom use (AOR: 0.28, 95% CI: 0.10, 0.79; p = 0.016; FDR q-value = 0.051), respectively, compared to participants who did not use contraceptives. CONCLUSION These findings suggested that lower serum vitamin D levels were associated with an increased risk of developing BV. However, further studies are needed to confirm the results of the present study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyede Faezeh Mojtahedi
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Gonabad University of Medical Sciences, Gonabad, Iran
| | - Alireza Mohammadzadeh
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Infectious Diseases Research Center, Gonabad University of Medical Sciences, Gonabad, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Mohammadzadeh
- School of health, Social Development and Health Promotion Research Center, Gonabad University of Medical Sciences, Gonabad, Iran
| | - Jelveh Jalili Shahri
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Gonabad University of Medical Sciences, Gonabad, Iran
| | - Narjes Bahri
- Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Medicine, Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Gonabad University of Medical Sciences, Gonabad, Iran.
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Caputo V, Libera M, Sisti S, Giuliani B, Diotti RA, Criscuolo E. The initial interplay between HIV and mucosal innate immunity. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1104423. [PMID: 36798134 PMCID: PMC9927018 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1104423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is still one of the major global health issues, and despite significant efforts that have been put into studying the pathogenesis of HIV infection, several aspects need to be clarified, including how innate immunity acts in different anatomical compartments. Given the nature of HIV as a sexually transmitted disease, one of the aspects that demands particular attention is the mucosal innate immune response. Given this scenario, we focused our attention on the interplay between HIV and mucosal innate response: the different mucosae act as a physical barrier, whose integrity can be compromised by the infection, and the virus-cell interaction induces the innate immune response. In addition, we explored the role of the mucosal microbiota in facilitating or preventing HIV infection and highlighted how its changes could influence the development of several opportunistic infections. Although recent progress, a proper characterization of mucosal innate immune response and microbiota is still missing, and further studies are needed to understand how they can be helpful for the formulation of an effective vaccine.
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Hormonal contraceptive use and the risk of sexually transmitted infections: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Sci Rep 2022; 12:20325. [PMID: 36434126 PMCID: PMC9700818 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-24601-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
There are 150 million women worldwide using combined or progestogen-only hormonal contraceptive methods who may be at risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Previous systematic reviews that have sought to establish whether there is an aetiological association between hormonal contraceptive methods/use and STIs have been limited in their methods and have mixed findings. We sought to update these reviews using appropriate control groups. We undertook a systematic review following the PRISMA guidelines and meta-analysis to examine the association between the use of all hormonal contraceptive methods and the acquisition of STIs (Neisseria gonorrhoeae, syphilis/Treponema pallidum, Chlamydia trachomatis, herpes simplex virus, and Trichomonas vaginalis) and/or bacterial vaginosis in literature published between 2005 and 2020. We analysed the effect of hormonal contraceptive methods/use separately on the prevalence, incidence and recurrence of STIs. A total of 37 studies were included in this review that reported 61 associations, in which 27 prevalence, eight incidence and two recurrence studies provided 43, 16, and two associations, respectively. We observed a positive association between hormonal contraceptive methods/use and the risk of chlamydia and herpes but a negative association for trichomoniasis and vaginosis. A negative but statistically insignificant association was observed between hormonal contraceptive methods/use and gonorrhoea. Hormonal contraceptive methods/use influences a woman's risk of STIs/ bacterial vaginosis, but the risk may differ depending on the type of STI. These findings should be contextualized carefully, particularly when formulating practice guidelines and policy, as the effects of hormonal contraceptive methods/use on the risk of STIs varied in direction when analysed separately by STI.
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Bacterial vaginosis and Mycoplasma infections in reproductive-age women: Clarifying the association with risk factors. CLINICA E INVESTIGACION EN GINECOLOGIA Y OBSTETRICIA 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gine.2022.100769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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12
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Genital microbiota of women using a 90 day tenofovir or tenofovir and levonorgestrel intravaginal ring in a placebo controlled randomized safety trial in Kenya. Sci Rep 2022; 12:12040. [PMID: 35835755 PMCID: PMC9283538 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-13475-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
In a phase-IIa trial, we investigated the influence of 90 days continuous-delivery tenofovir (TFV) intravaginal rings (IVRs) with/without levonorgestrel (LNG) on the genital microbiota of Kenyan women. Eligible women (n = 27; 18-34 years; negative for HIV, sexually transmitted infections, and Amsel-bacterial vaginosis) were randomized 2:2:1 to use of IVRs containing TFV, TFV/LNG, or placebo. Using vaginal wall and IVR swabs at IVR insertion and removal, the genital microbial composition was determined using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The presence of Candida spp. was determined using qPCR. The vaginal total bacterial burden appeared to decrease with TFV and TFV/LNG IVR use (log100.57 and log100.27 decrease respectively; p > 0.05). The TFV/LNG IVR was more 'stabilizing': 50% of the participants' microbiota community state types remained unchanged and 50% shifted towards higher Lactobacillus abundance. Specifically, TFV/LNG IVR use was accompanied by increased abundances of Lactobacillus gasseri/hominis/johnsonii/taiwanensis (16.3-fold) and L. fermentum/reuteri/vaginalis (7.0-fold; all p < 0.01). A significant shift in the overall microbial α-diversity or β-diversity was not observed for either IVR, and IVR use did not influence Candida spp. prevalence. TFV/LNG and TFV IVRs did not adversely affect the genital microbiota and are safe to use. Our findings support further studies assessing their efficacy in preventing HIV/HSV-2 and unintended pregnancies.
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Taku O, Onywera H, Mbulawa ZZA, Businge CB, Meiring TL, Williamson AL. Molecular Identification of Cervical Microbes in HIV-Negative and HIV-Positive Women in an African Setting Using a Customized Bacterial Vaginosis Microbial DNA Quantitative PCR (qPCR) Array. Microbiol Spectr 2022; 10:e0222921. [PMID: 35647888 PMCID: PMC9241767 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.02229-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common polymicrobial vaginal disorder that is associated with sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV. Several studies have utilized broad-range 16S rRNA gene PCR assays with sequence analysis to characterize cervicovaginal bacterial communities of women with healthy and diseased conditions. With the high burden of BV and STIs among African women, there is a need for targeted PCR assays that can rapidly determine the true epidemiological profile of key cervical microbes, including BV-associated bacteria, and a need to explore the utility of such assays for microbiological diagnosis of BV. Here, we used a taxon-directed 16S rRNA gene quantitative PCR (qPCR) assay to examine the prevalences and determinants of specific cervical microbes among African women with and without HIV infection. Cervical samples were collected using a cytobrush from 162 women (aged ≥30 years) attending a community-based clinic in Eastern Cape, South Africa. The samples were screened for specific microbes (i.e., STIs, emerging sexually transmitted pathogens [pathobionts], and BV-associated bacteria) using a customized bacterial vaginosis microbial DNA qPCR array. Statistical analyses were performed using GraphPad Prism v6.01. Chi-square/Fisher's exact tests were used to evaluate the determinants associated with specific cervical microbes. Only 145 women had any detectable microbes and were included in the analysis. Lactobacillus iners (62.8%) and specific BV-associated bacteria, namely, Gardnerella vaginalis (58.6%), Atopobium vaginae (40.7%), and the pathobiont Ureaplasma parvum (37.9%), were the most prevalent microbes. Hierarchical clustering analysis revealed that 42.8% of the women (62/145) had a diverse array of heterogeneously distributed bacteria typically linked to BV. Women with detectable Lactobacillus species, specifically Lactobacillus crispatus and Lactobacillus jensenii, and to a lesser extent L. iners, had very low prevalence of BV-associated bacteria. Although the cumulative burden of STIs/pathobionts was 62.8%, Chlamydia trachomatis (3.4%), Neisseria gonorrhoeae (4.8%), and Trichomonas vaginalis (4.8%) were detected at low rates. HIV infection was associated with the presence of STIs/pathobionts (P = 0.022) and L. iners (P = 0.003). Prevalent STIs/pathobionts were associated with having multiple partners in the past 12 months (n ≥ 2, P = 0.015), high number of lifetime sexual partners (n ≥ 3, P = 0.007), vaginal sex in the past month (P = 0.010), and decreasing age of women (P = 0.005). C. trachomatis was associated with increasing age among HIV-positive women (P = 0.016). The pathobiont Ureaplasma urealyticum was inversely associated with age of women in the whole cohort (P = 0.018). The overall prevalence of STIs/pathobionts was high and was associated with HIV infection and sexual behavior. Our study helps us to understand the epidemiological trend of STIs and pathobionts and highlights the need to understand the impact of sexual networks on STI and pathobiont transmission and prevention among women in an African setting. IMPORTANCE Bacterial vaginosis (BV), whose etiology remains a matter of controversy, is a common vaginal disorder among reproductive-age women and can increase the risk for sexually transmitted infections (STIs). African women bear a disproportionately high burden of STIs and BV. Using a targeted quantitative PCR (qPCR) assay, a customized bacterial vaginosis microbial DNA qPCR array, we examined the prevalences and determinants of key cervical microbes, including BV-associated bacteria and emerging sexually transmitted pathogens (pathobionts) among women of African descent aged between 30 and 75 years. High-risk behaviors were associated with a higher prevalence of STIs/pathobionts, suggesting the need to better understand the influence of sexual networks on STI and pathobiont transmission and prevention among women. Our molecular assay is important in the surveillance of BV-associated bacteria, pathobionts, and STIs as well as diagnostic microbiology of BV. Furthermore, our research contributes to a better understanding of the epidemiology of STIs and pathobionts in Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ongeziwe Taku
- Division of Medical Virology, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Centre for Healthcare-Associated Infections, Antimicrobial Resistance and Mycoses (CHARM), National Institute for Communicable Diseases, Division of the National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Harris Onywera
- Division of Medical Virology, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Research, Innovations, and Academics Unit, Tunacare Services Health Providers Limited, Nairobi, Kenya
- Research and Innovation, Mount Kenya University, Thika, Kenya
| | - Zizipho Z. A. Mbulawa
- Division of Medical Virology, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- UCT-MRC Gynaecological Cancer Research Centre, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- National Health Laboratory Service, Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital, Mthatha, South Africa
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Walter Sisulu University, Mthatha, South Africa
| | - Charles B. Businge
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital, Mthatha, South Africa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Walter Sisulu University, Mthatha, South Africa
| | - Tracy L. Meiring
- Division of Medical Virology, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Anna-Lise Williamson
- Division of Medical Virology, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Research and Innovation, Mount Kenya University, Thika, Kenya
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Challa A, Kachhawa G, Sood S, Upadhyay AD, Dwivedi SN, Gupta S. Correlates of bacterial vaginosis among women from North India. Int J STD AIDS 2022; 33:666-671. [PMID: 35609319 DOI: 10.1177/09564624221091743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background: Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the most prevalent cause of abnormal vaginal discharge among pre-menopausal women and associated with adversities of sexual and reproductive health. The present study aimed to identify potential epidemiological and behavioural risk factors and clinical predictors of BV among women in Delhi, India. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess 283 non-pregnant women aged 18-45 years for BV using Nugent's scoring criteria. Information on demographics, sexual behaviours, hygiene practices and clinical symptoms was obtained and evaluated for their association with Nugent-BV status. Results: A positive diagnosis for Nugent-BV was made in 69 (24.4%) participants, 55 (19.4%) were intermediate and 159 (65.2%) were negative for Nugent-BV. Infertility (p = .02) and recent unprotected sexual exposure (p = .02) were strongly associated with Nugent-BV. On the other hand, women who reported regular use of condoms during intercourse were more likely to test negative (p = .03). None of the patient complaints, however, had any significant correlation with Nugent-BV diagnosis. Conclusion: Women in their reproductive years share the highest burden of adversities associated with bacterial vaginosis. History of infertility, recent unprotected sexual exposure and frequent use of condoms were correlates having significant associations with Nugent-BV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Apoorva Challa
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, 28730All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Garima Kachhawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 28730All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Seema Sood
- Department of Microbiology, 28730All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Ashish D Upadhyay
- Department of Biostatistics, 28730All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Sada N Dwivedi
- Department of Biostatistics, 28730All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Somesh Gupta
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, 28730All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
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Carter KA, Balkus JE, Anzala O, Kimani J, Hoffman NG, Fiedler TL, Mochache V, Fredricks DN, McClelland RS, Srinivasan S. Associations Between Vaginal Bacteria and Bacterial Vaginosis Signs and Symptoms: A Comparative Study of Kenyan and American Women. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:801770. [PMID: 35310847 PMCID: PMC8931342 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.801770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Bacterial colonization and associations with bacterial vaginosis (BV) signs and symptoms (Amsel criteria) may vary between populations. We assessed relationships between vaginal bacteria and Amsel criteria among two populations. Methods Kenyan participants from the placebo arm of the Preventing Vaginal Infections (PVI) trial and participants from a Seattle-based cross-sectional BV study were included. Amsel criteria were recorded at study visits, and the vaginal microbiota was characterized using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Logistic regression models, accounting for repeat visits as appropriate, were fit to evaluate associations between bacterial relative abundance and each Amsel criterion. Results Among 84 PVI participants (496 observations) and 220 Seattle participants, the prevalence of amine odor was 25% and 40%, clue cells 16% and 37%, vaginal discharge 10% and 52%, elevated vaginal pH 69% and 67%, and BV 13% and 44%, respectively. BV-associated bacterium 1 (BVAB1) was positively associated with all Amsel criteria in both populations. Eggerthella type 1, Fannyhessea (Atopobium) vaginae, Gardnerella spp., Sneathia amnii, and Sneathia sanguinegens were positively associated with all Amsel criteria in the Seattle study, and all but discharge in the PVI trial. Conclusions Core vaginal bacteria are consistently associated with BV signs and symptoms across two distinct populations of women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayla A. Carter
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Jennifer E. Balkus
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Omu Anzala
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Joshua Kimani
- Institute for Tropical and Infectious Diseases, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Noah G. Hoffman
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Tina L. Fiedler
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Vernon Mochache
- Centre for Public Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - David N. Fredricks
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, United States
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Raymond Scott McClelland
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Sujatha Srinivasan
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, United States
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Whelan J, Abbing-Karahagopian V, Serino L, Unemo M. Gonorrhoea: a systematic review of prevalence reporting globally. BMC Infect Dis 2021; 21:1152. [PMID: 34763670 PMCID: PMC8582208 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-021-06381-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends periodic gonorrhoea prevalence assessments in the general population or proxies thereof (including pregnant women, women attending family planning clinics, military recruits, and men undergoing employment physicals for example) and in population groups at increased risk, including men-who-have-sex-with-men (MSM) and sex workers. METHOD We evaluated reported prevalence data, including estimates from proxy general population samples to reflect the WHO recommendations. We describe the outcomes from the general population country-by-country and extend previous reviews to include MSM, sex workers, and extragenital infections. RESULT AND CONCLUSION In our systematic search, 2015 titles were reviewed (January 2010-April 2019) and 174 full-text publications were included. National, population-based prevalence data were identified in only four countries (the United States of America, the United Kingdom, Peru, New Caledonia) and local population-based estimates were reported in areas within five countries (China, South Africa, Brazil, Benin, and Malawi). The remaining studies identified only reported test positivity from non-probability, proxy general population samples. Due to the diversity of the reviewed studies, detailed comparison across studies was not possible. In MSM, data were identified from 64 studies in 25 countries. Rectal infection rates were generally higher than urogenital or pharyngeal infection rates, where extragenital testing was conducted. Data on sex workers were identified from 41 studies in 23 countries; rates in female sex workers were high. Current prevalence monitoring was shown to be highly suboptimal worldwide. Serial prevalence monitoring of critical epidemiological variables, and guidelines to optimize prevalence study conduct and reporting beyond antenatal settings are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Whelan
- Clinical and Epidemiology Research and Development, GSK, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | | | - Laura Serino
- Clinical and Epidemiology Research and Development, GSK, Siena, Italy
| | - Magnus Unemo
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Gonorrhoea and other STIs, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
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Mulinganya G, De Vulder A, Bisimwa G, Boelens J, Claeys G, De Keyser K, De Vos D, Hendwa E, Kampara F, Kujirakwinja Y, Mongane J, Mubalama I, Vaneechoutte M, Callens S, Cools P. Prevalence, risk factors and adverse pregnancy outcomes of second trimester bacterial vaginosis among pregnant women in Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0257939. [PMID: 34695126 PMCID: PMC8544863 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0257939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the most common gynecological condition in women of reproductive age and associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), neonatal mortality rate is as high as 2.8 percent with preterm birth (PTB) and low birth weight (LBW) as leading causes. Because no studies have addressed BV in DRC, we aimed to investigate the prevalence of BV, the risk factors and the association between BV and adverse pregnancy outcomes in a population of pregnant women from Bukavu, DRC. METHODS A total of 533 pregnant women in the second trimester of pregnancy were recruited in the Provincial Reference Hospital of Bukavu, DRC, between January and October 2017, and followed until delivery. Clinical and sociodemographic data of mother and newborn, and data on (vaginal) hygiene practices, sexual behavior and reproductive history were collected. BV was diagnosed by Nugent scoring of Gram-stained vaginal smears. Two multivariate regression models were built to identify risk factors for BV and to investigate BV as a risk factor for adverse pregnancy outcomes. RESULTS The prevalence of BV was 26.3% and approximately half of the women with BV were asymptomatic. Independent risk factors for BV were the use of alternatives to water for intravaginal washing, concurrent partners, unemployed status, the presence of vaginal Candida and clay consumption. BV was independently associated with both LBW and PTB of an infant with LBW. CONCLUSION The prevalence of BV in Bukavu is high but in line with the global average. BV was associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes in our study population. Hence, research on modifiable risk factor-based interventions to reduce the prevalence of BV, and on screening/treatment of BV during antenatal care should be explored to reduce neonatal mortality and morbidity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guy Mulinganya
- Faculty of Medicine, Catholic University of Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of The Congo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hôpital Provincial Général de Référence de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of The Congo
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Annelies De Vulder
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ghislain Bisimwa
- Faculty of Medicine, Catholic University of Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of The Congo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hôpital Provincial Général de Référence de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of The Congo
| | - Jerina Boelens
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Geert Claeys
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Karen De Keyser
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Daniel De Vos
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Technology, Burn Wound Center, Queen Astrid Military Hospital, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Erick Hendwa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hôpital Provincial Général de Référence de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of The Congo
| | - Freddy Kampara
- Faculty of Medicine, Catholic University of Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of The Congo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hôpital Provincial Général de Référence de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of The Congo
| | - Yvette Kujirakwinja
- Faculty of Medicine, Catholic University of Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of The Congo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hôpital Provincial Général de Référence de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of The Congo
| | - Jules Mongane
- Faculty of Medicine, Catholic University of Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of The Congo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hôpital Provincial Général de Référence de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of The Congo
| | - Innocent Mubalama
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hôpital Provincial Général de Référence de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of The Congo
| | - Mario Vaneechoutte
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Steven Callens
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Piet Cools
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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Mngomezulu K, Mzobe G, Mtshali A, Baxter C, Ngcapu S. The use of PSA as a biomarker of recent semen exposure in female reproductive health studies. J Reprod Immunol 2021; 148:103381. [PMID: 34563757 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2021.103381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Semen contains potent soluble proteins, bacteria, viruses, activated immune cells as well as anti- and pro-inflammatory cytokines that may influence the inflammatory response and alter microbial composition of the female genital tract. The presence of semen in the female genital mucosa may be a significant confounder that most studies have failed to control for in their analysis. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA), a protein secreted by the prostate into the urethra during ejaculation, is a well-established biomarker of semen exposure. Several studies have demonstrated discordance between self-reports of sexual behavior and the presence of PSA. Recent semen exposure has been shown to promote pro-inflammatory responses, stimulate the recruitment of activated immune cells and decrease Lactobacilli abundance in the female genital mucosa. As a result, it is important to understand the concordance between self-reported consistent condom use and the presence of semen biomarkers. Furthermore, to ensure that the interpretation of data in clinical studies of the immunological and microbial environment in the female genital mucosa are accurate, it is essential to establish whether semen is present in the vaginal fluid. This review explores the impact of semen exposure on the mucosal microenvironment and assesses the use of the PSA as an objective biomarker of semen exposure to reduce reliance on self-reported sexual intercourse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khanyisile Mngomezulu
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Gugulethu Mzobe
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Andile Mtshali
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Cheryl Baxter
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa; Department of Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Sinaye Ngcapu
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa; Department of Medical Microbiology, Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa.
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Sturt AS, Webb EL, Himschoot L, Phiri CR, Mapani J, Mudenda M, Kjetland EF, Mweene T, Levecke B, van Dam GJ, Corstjens PLAM, Ayles H, Hayes RJ, van Lieshout L, Hansingo I, Francis SC, Cools P, Bustinduy AL. Association of Female Genital Schistosomiasis With the Cervicovaginal Microbiota and Sexually Transmitted Infections in Zambian Women. Open Forum Infect Dis 2021; 8:ofab438. [PMID: 34557562 PMCID: PMC8454507 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofab438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The cervicovaginal microbiota, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs), have not been well described in female genital schistosomiasis (FGS). METHODS Women (aged 18-31, sexually active, nonpregnant) were invited to participate at the final follow-up of the HPTN 071 (PopART) Population Cohort in January-August 2018. We measured key species of the cervicovaginal microbiota (Lactobacillus crispatus, L. iners, Gardnerella vaginalis, Atopobium vaginae, and Candida) and STIs (Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Trichomonas vaginalis, and Mycoplasma genitalium) using quantitative PCR (qPCR). We evaluated associations of the microbiota and STI presence and concentration with FGS (qPCR-detected Schistosoma DNA in any of 3 genital specimens). RESULTS The presence and concentration of key cervicovaginal species did not differ between participants with (n = 30) or without FGS (n = 158). A higher proportion of participants with FGS had T. vaginalis compared with FGS-negative women (P = .08), with further analysis showing that T. vaginalis was more prevalent among women with ≥2 Schistosoma qPCR-positive genital specimens (50.0%, 8/16) than among FGS-negative women (21.5%, 34/158; P = .01). CONCLUSIONS We found weak evidence of an association between the presence of T. vaginalis and FGS, with a stronger association in women with a higher-burden FGS infection. Additional research is needed on potential between-parasite interactions, especially regarding HIV-1 vulnerability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy S Sturt
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Emily L Webb
- MRC International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Lisa Himschoot
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | | | - Joyce Mapani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Livingstone Central Hospital, Livingstone, Zambia
| | - Maina Mudenda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Livingstone Central Hospital, Livingstone, Zambia
| | - Eyrun F Kjetland
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | | | - Bruno Levecke
- Department of Virology, Parasitology, and Immunology, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Govert J van Dam
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Paul L A M Corstjens
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Helen Ayles
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Zambart, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Richard J Hayes
- MRC International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Lisette van Lieshout
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Isaiah Hansingo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Livingstone Central Hospital, Livingstone, Zambia
| | - Suzanna C Francis
- MRC International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Piet Cools
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Virology, Parasitology, and Immunology, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Amaya L Bustinduy
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Bitew A, Mengist A, Belew H, Aschale Y, Reta A. The Prevalence, Antibiotic Resistance Pattern, and Associated Factors of Bacterial Vaginosis Among Women of the Reproductive Age Group from Felege Hiwot Referral Hospital, Ethiopia. Infect Drug Resist 2021; 14:2685-2696. [PMID: 34285521 PMCID: PMC8286113 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s305329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Bacterial vaginosis is an infection of the vagina, which results due to change in the normal balance of vaginal bacteria. The aim of this study was to assess the magnitude and determinants of bacterial vaginosis among women of reproductive age group from Felege Hiwot Referral Hospital. Materials and Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among women during the reproductive period at Felege Hiwot Referral Hospital from September 1, 2019 to October 2020. About 413 vaginal swab samples were collected and examined using the Nugent scoring system and culture. Data were analyzed by SPSS version 25. The odds ratio (OR) was used as a measure of the strength of association and reported with 95% confidence intervals. P-value ≤ 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression models were used to identify possible associated factors with bacteria causing bacterial vaginosis. Results The overall prevalence of bacteria causing bacterial vaginosis was 39.5%. The predominant bacteria were S. aureus (25.4%), G. vaginalis (22.7%), S. agalactiae (14.1%), and E. coli (13.5%). S. aureus was resistant to erythromycin (69.8%) and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (53.5%); despite this, it was susceptible to ciprofloxacillin (93%), gentamycin (93%), and cefoxitin (90.7%). On the other hand, E. coli was resistant to trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (91.3%) and ceftriaxone (63.6%), but was susceptible to ciprofloxacillin (95.5%) and gentamycin (93%). Conclusion The high prevalence of bacterial vaginosis was significantly associated with the pH level of the vagina (≥4.5), participant age ≤20, pregnancy, and history of HIV infection. Therefore, early identification of factors leading to bacterial overgrowth on the vagina is very important to protect maternal and child morbidity and mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abebaw Bitew
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | - Abeba Mengist
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | - Habtamu Belew
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | - Yibeltal Aschale
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | - Alemayehu Reta
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
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Mngomezulu K, Mzobe GF, Mtshali A, Osman F, Liebenberg LJP, Garrett N, Singh R, Rompalo A, Mindel A, Karim SSA, Karim QA, Baxter C, Ngcapu S. Recent Semen Exposure Impacts the Cytokine Response and Bacterial Vaginosis in Women. Front Immunol 2021; 12:695201. [PMID: 34177961 PMCID: PMC8221111 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.695201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The presence of semen in the vagina from unprotected sex may influence the immune and microbial environment of the female genital tract. Inflammatory cytokine concentrations and BV-associated bacteria in female genital secretions may influence HIV risk, although the effect of recent sexual intercourse on incident BV and the cytokine milieu of cervicovaginal secretions has rarely been measured in previous studies. Here, we investigated the extent to which partner semen impacts the cytokine response and incident BV. Methods At baseline, we assessed the recency of semen exposure in menstrual cup supernatants by quantifying prostate specific antigen (PSA) levels using ELISA in 248 HIV-uninfected women at high risk for HIV infection. Luminex was used to measure 48 cytokines in menstrual cup supernatants and vaginal swabs to diagnose BV by Nugent score. Point-of-care screening for Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae was conducted using GeneXpert while OSOM was used for Trichomonas vaginalis detection. Multivariable models, adjusted for age, sexually transmitted infections, BV, current contraception use and condom use, were used to assess the impact of semen exposure on biomarkers of inflammation and BV. Results Presence of PSA, indicating recent semen exposure within 48 hours prior to sampling, was observed in menstrual cup supernatants of 17% (43/248) of women. Of these women, 70% (30/43) had self-reported condom use at their last sex act and 84% (36/43) had BV (Nugent score >7). PSA presence was significantly associated with prevalent BV (Relative Risk (RR), 2.609; 95% Confidence Interval (CI), 1.104 - 6.165; p = 0.029). Furthermore, women with detectable PSA had high median concentrations of macrophage inflammatory protein- beta (MIP-1α, p=0.047) and low median concentration of the stem cell growth factor beta (SCGF-β, p=0.038) compared to those without PSA. Conclusion A degree of discordance between self-reports of consistent condom use and PSA positivity was observed. There was also evidence of a relationship between recent semen exposure, BV prevalence and altered cytokine concentrations. These findings suggest that PSA, as a semen biomarker, should be taken into consideration when investigating biological markers in the female genital tract and self-reported condom use in studies on reproductive and sexual health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khanyisile Mngomezulu
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Gugulethu F. Mzobe
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Andile Mtshali
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Farzana Osman
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Lenine J. P. Liebenberg
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Nigel Garrett
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Department of Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Ravesh Singh
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Department of Microbiology, National Health Laboratory Services, KwaZulu-Natal Academic Complex, Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital, Durban, South Africa
| | - Anne Rompalo
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Adrian Mindel
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Salim S. Abdool Karim
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Quarraisha Abdool Karim
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Cheryl Baxter
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Department of Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Sinaye Ngcapu
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
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Epidemiology of herpes simplex virus type 2 in sub-Saharan Africa: Systematic review, meta-analyses, and meta-regressions. EClinicalMedicine 2021. [PMID: 34027335 DOI: 10.1101/2021.01.25.21250443v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infection is a prevalent, sexually transmitted infection with a sizable disease burden that is highest in sub-Saharan Africa. This study aimed to characterize HSV-2 epidemiology in this region. METHODS Cochrane and PRISMA guidelines were followed to systematically review, synthesize, and report HSV-2 related findings up to August 23, 2020. Meta-analyses and meta-regressions were conducted. FINDINGS From 218 relevant publications, 451 overall outcome measures and 869 stratified measures were extracted. Pooled incidence rates ranged between 2.4-19.4 per 100 person-years across populations. Pooled seroprevalence was lowest at 37.3% (95% confidence interval (CI): 34.9-39.7%) in general populations and high in female sex workers and HIV-positive individuals at 62.5% (95% CI: 54.8-70.0%) and 71.3% (95% CI: 66.5-75.9%), respectively. In general populations, pooled seroprevalence increased steadily with age. Compared to women, men had a lower seroprevalence with an adjusted risk ratio (ARR) of 0.61 (95% CI: 0.56-0.67). Seroprevalence has decreased in recent decades with an ARR of 0.98 (95% CI: 0.97-0.99) per year. Seroprevalence was highest in Eastern and Southern Africa. Pooled HSV-2 proportion in genital ulcer disease was 50.7% (95% CI: 44.7-56.8%) and in genital herpes it was 97.3% (95% CI: 84.4-100%). INTERPRETATION Seroprevalence is declining by 2% per year, but a third of the population is infected. Age and geography play profound roles in HSV-2 epidemiology. Temporal declines and geographic distribution of HSV-2 seroprevalence mirror that of HIV prevalence, suggesting sexual risk behavior has been declining for three decades. HSV-2 is the etiological cause of half of genital ulcer disease and nearly all genital herpes cases with limited role for HSV-1. FUNDING This work was supported by pilot funding from the Biomedical Research Program at Weill Cornell Medicine in Qatar and by the Qatar National Research Fund [NPRP 9-040-3-008].
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Harfouche M, Abu-Hijleh FM, James C, Looker KJ, Abu-Raddad LJ. Epidemiology of herpes simplex virus type 2 in sub-Saharan Africa: Systematic review, meta-analyses, and meta-regressions. EClinicalMedicine 2021; 35:100876. [PMID: 34027335 PMCID: PMC8129943 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2021.100876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infection is a prevalent, sexually transmitted infection with a sizable disease burden that is highest in sub-Saharan Africa. This study aimed to characterize HSV-2 epidemiology in this region. METHODS Cochrane and PRISMA guidelines were followed to systematically review, synthesize, and report HSV-2 related findings up to August 23, 2020. Meta-analyses and meta-regressions were conducted. FINDINGS From 218 relevant publications, 451 overall outcome measures and 869 stratified measures were extracted. Pooled incidence rates ranged between 2.4-19.4 per 100 person-years across populations. Pooled seroprevalence was lowest at 37.3% (95% confidence interval (CI): 34.9-39.7%) in general populations and high in female sex workers and HIV-positive individuals at 62.5% (95% CI: 54.8-70.0%) and 71.3% (95% CI: 66.5-75.9%), respectively. In general populations, pooled seroprevalence increased steadily with age. Compared to women, men had a lower seroprevalence with an adjusted risk ratio (ARR) of 0.61 (95% CI: 0.56-0.67). Seroprevalence has decreased in recent decades with an ARR of 0.98 (95% CI: 0.97-0.99) per year. Seroprevalence was highest in Eastern and Southern Africa. Pooled HSV-2 proportion in genital ulcer disease was 50.7% (95% CI: 44.7-56.8%) and in genital herpes it was 97.3% (95% CI: 84.4-100%). INTERPRETATION Seroprevalence is declining by 2% per year, but a third of the population is infected. Age and geography play profound roles in HSV-2 epidemiology. Temporal declines and geographic distribution of HSV-2 seroprevalence mirror that of HIV prevalence, suggesting sexual risk behavior has been declining for three decades. HSV-2 is the etiological cause of half of genital ulcer disease and nearly all genital herpes cases with limited role for HSV-1. FUNDING This work was supported by pilot funding from the Biomedical Research Program at Weill Cornell Medicine in Qatar and by the Qatar National Research Fund [NPRP 9-040-3-008].
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Affiliation(s)
- Manale Harfouche
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation - Education City, Doha, Qatar
- World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Disease Epidemiology Analytics on HIV/AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Infections, and Viral Hepatitis, Weill Cornell Medicine–Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation – Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Farah M. Abu-Hijleh
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Academic Quality Affairs Office, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Charlotte James
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Katharine J. Looker
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Laith J. Abu-Raddad
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation - Education City, Doha, Qatar
- World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Disease Epidemiology Analytics on HIV/AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Infections, and Viral Hepatitis, Weill Cornell Medicine–Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation – Education City, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, United States
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Dabee S, Passmore JAS, Heffron R, Jaspan HB. The Complex Link between the Female Genital Microbiota, Genital Infections, and Inflammation. Infect Immun 2021; 89:e00487-20. [PMID: 33558324 PMCID: PMC8091093 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00487-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The female genital tract microbiota is part of a complex ecosystem influenced by several physiological, genetic, and behavioral factors. It is uniquely linked to a woman's mucosal immunity and plays a critical role in the regulation of genital inflammation. A vaginal microbiota characterized by a high abundance of lactobacilli and low overall bacterial diversity is associated with lower inflammation. On the other hand, a more diverse microbiota is linked to high mucosal inflammation levels, a compromised genital epithelial barrier, and an increased risk of sexually transmitted infections and other conditions. Several bacterial taxa such as Gardnerella spp., Prevotella spp., Sneathia spp., and Atopobium spp. are well known to have adverse effects; however, the definitive cause of this microbial dysbiosis is yet to be fully elucidated. The aim of this review is to discuss the multiple ways in which the microbiota influences the overall genital inflammatory milieu and to explore the causes and consequences of this inflammatory response. While there is abundant evidence linking a diverse genital microbiota to elevated inflammation, understanding the risk factors and mechanisms through which it affects genital health is essential. A robust appreciation of these factors is important for identifying effective prevention and treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Smritee Dabee
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Jo-Ann S Passmore
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine (IDM), University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- CAPRISA Centre of Excellence in HIV Prevention, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- National Health Laboratory Service, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Heather B Jaspan
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine (IDM), University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
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25
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Sex Work Is Associated With Increased Vaginal Microbiome Diversity in Young Women From Mombasa, Kenya. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2021; 85:79-87. [PMID: 32433252 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although nonoptimal vaginal bacteria and inflammation have been associated with increased HIV risk, the upstream drivers of these phenotypes are poorly defined in young African women. SETTING Mombasa, Kenya. METHODS We characterized vaginal microbiome and cytokine profiles of sexually active young women aged 14-24 years (n = 168) in 3 study groups: those engaging in formal sex work, in transactional sex, and nonsex workers. Vaginal secretions were collected using self-inserted SoftCup, and assayed for cytokines and vaginal microbiome through multiplex ELISA and 16S rRNA sequencing, respectively. Epidemiological data were captured using a validated questionnaire. RESULTS The median age of participants was 20 years (interquartile range: 18-22 years). Approximately two-thirds of young women (105/168) had vaginal microbial communities characterized by Gardnerella and/or Prevotella spp. dominance; a further 29% (49/168) were predominantly Lactobacillus iners. Microbiome clustering explained a large proportion of cytokine variation (>50% by the first 2 principal components). Age was not associated with vaginal microbial profiles in bivariable or multivariable analyses. Women self-identifying as sex workers had increased alpha (intraindividual) diversity, independent of age, recent sexual activity, HIV, and other sexually transmitted infections (beta = 0.47, 95% confidence interval: 0.05 to 0.90, P = 0.03). Recent sex (number of partners or sex acts last week, time since last vaginal sex) correlated with increased alpha diversity, particularly in participants who were not involved in sex work. CONCLUSION Nonoptimal vaginal microbiomes were common in young Kenyan women and associated with sex work and recent sexual activity, but independent of age. Restoring optimal vaginal microflora may represent a useful HIV prevention strategy.
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Sehgal PG, Dadwal R, Sharma B, Sehgal A, Bagga R, Chopra S, Angrup A, Yadav R, Sharma N, Sethi S. Detection of co-infection of Gardnerella vaginalis and Atopobium vaginae using qualitative PCR: A better predictor of bacterial vaginosis. Anaerobe 2021; 69:102343. [PMID: 33582302 DOI: 10.1016/j.anaerobe.2021.102343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Revised: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The present study aimed to determine the utility of detection of co-infection of Gardnerella vaginalis and Atopobium vaginae using qualitative PCR for diagnosing bacterial vaginosis (BV). Vaginal samples (n = 385) categorized as positive (n = 108) or negative (n = 208) for bacterial vaginosis based on the Nugent scoring system, were analyzed for the presence of G. vaginalis and A. vaginae by conventional PCR. We compared the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and odds ratio for the detection of each bacterium alone with the combination of the two bacteria for diagnosing BV. The detection of co-infection of the two bacteria demonstrated a sensitivity of 96%, a specificity of 82.9%, a positive predictive value of 68.5%, a negative predictive value of 98.2% with an odds ratio of 116 (CI -32 - 409). In our study, we found a high sensitivity, specificity, negative predictive value and odds ratio for the detection of co-infection of A. vaginae and G. vaginalis for the diagnosis of BV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pragati Grover Sehgal
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Rajneesh Dadwal
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Bhawna Sharma
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Amit Sehgal
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Rashmi Bagga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Seema Chopra
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Archana Angrup
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Rakesh Yadav
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Nandita Sharma
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Sunil Sethi
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India.
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Castanheira CP, Sallas ML, Nunes RAL, Lorenzi NPC, Termini L. Microbiome and Cervical Cancer. Pathobiology 2020; 88:187-197. [PMID: 33227782 DOI: 10.1159/000511477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Persistent infection with some types of mucosal human papillomavirus (HPV) is the etiological factor for the development of cervical cancer and its precursor lesions. Besides, several cofactors are known to play a role in cervical disease onset and progression either by favoring or by preventing HPV infection and persistence. The microbiome of a healthy female genital tract is characterized by the presence of 1 or few varieties of lactobacilli. However, high-throughput studies addressing the bacterial diversity and abundance in the female genital tract have shown that several factors, including hormonal levels, hygiene habits, and sexually transmitted diseases may disrupt the natural balance, favoring the outgrowth of some groups of bacteria, which in turn may favor some pathological states. Recently, the vaginal microbiome has emerged as a new variable that could greatly influence the natural history of HPV infections and their clinical impact. In this context, changes in the vaginal microbiome have been detected in women infected with HPV and women with HPV-associated lesions and cancer. However, the role of specific bacteria groups in the development/progression or prevention/regression of HPV-associated pathologies is not well understood. In this review we summarize the current knowledge concerning changes in vaginal microbiome and cervical disease. We discuss the potential functional interplay between specific bacterial groups and HPV infection outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mayara Luciana Sallas
- Innovation in Cancer Laboratory, Centro de Investigação Translacional em Oncologia, Instituto do Câncer do Estado de São Paulo Octavio Frias de Oliveira, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rafaella Almeida Lima Nunes
- Innovation in Cancer Laboratory, Centro de Investigação Translacional em Oncologia, Instituto do Câncer do Estado de São Paulo Octavio Frias de Oliveira, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Lara Termini
- Innovation in Cancer Laboratory, Centro de Investigação Translacional em Oncologia, Instituto do Câncer do Estado de São Paulo Octavio Frias de Oliveira, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil,
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Elkins JM, Cantillo-Campos S, Sheele JM. Frequency of Coinfection on the Vaginal Wet Preparation in the Emergency Department. Cureus 2020; 12:e11566. [PMID: 33364093 PMCID: PMC7749810 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.11566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Vaginal infections are common in the emergency department (ED) but the frequency of vaginal coinfections identified on wet preparation is unknown. Methods The study examined a data set of 75,000 ED patient encounters between April 18, 2014, and March 7, 2017, who had received testing for gonorrhea, chlamydia, or trichomonas or had received a urinalysis and urine culture during the ED encounter. From this data set we reviewed 16,484 patient encounters where a vaginal wet preparation was performed on women age 18 years and older. Findings from the vaginal wet preparation and ED discharge diagnoses were examined to evaluate the frequency of vaginal coinfections with vulvovaginal candidiasis, trichomoniasis, and bacterial vaginosis. Results Among the women who had wet preparations, 4,124 patient encounters (25.0%) had a diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis, 625 (3.8%) had a diagnosis of vulvovaginal candidiasis, and 1,802 (10.9%) were infected with Trichomonas vaginalis. Twenty encounters (0.1%) had a diagnosis of vulvovaginal candidiasis and trichomoniasis; 150 (0.9%), bacterial vaginosis and trichomoniasis; 136 (0.8%), vulvovaginal candidiasis and bacterial vaginosis; and 10 (0.1%), trichomoniasis, bacterial vaginosis, and vulvovaginal candidiasis. On vaginal wet preparation, the mean white blood cell count was 13.0 per high-power field. Clue cells were found in 6,988 wet preparations (42.4%); 1,065 wet preparations (6.5%) had yeast and 1,377 (8.4%) had T. vaginalis. T. vaginalis was identified in 2.5% (266/10,542) of urinalyses and 8.4% (406/4,821) of nucleic acid amplification tests. Conclusions Vaginal coinfections were uncommon among women receiving a vaginal wet preparation in the emergency department. The most common vaginal coinfection was bacterial vaginosis and trichomonas.
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Jewanraj J, Ngcapu S, Osman F, Mtshali A, Singh R, Mansoor LE, Abdool Karim SS, Abdool Karim Q, Passmore JAS, Liebenberg LJP. The Impact of Semen Exposure on the Immune and Microbial Environments of the Female Genital Tract. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2020; 2:566559. [PMID: 36304709 PMCID: PMC9580648 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2020.566559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Semen induces an immune response at the female genital tract (FGT) to promote conception. It is also the primary vector for HIV transmission to women during condomless sex. Since genital inflammation and immune activation increase HIV susceptibility in women, semen-induced alterations at the FGT may have implications for HIV risk. Here we investigated the impact of semen exposure, as measured by self-reported condom use and Y-chromosome DNA (YcDNA) detection, on biomarkers of female genital inflammation associated with HIV acquisition. Methods: Stored genital specimens were collected biannually (mean 5 visits) from 153 HIV-negative women participating in the CAPRISA 008 tenofovir gel open-label extension trial. YcDNA was detected in cervicovaginal lavage (CVL) pellets by RT-PCR and served as a biomarker of semen exposure within 15 days of genital sampling. Protein concentrations were measured in CVL supernatants by multiplexed ELISA, and the frequency of activated CD4+CCR5+ HIV targets was assessed on cytobrush-derived specimens by flow cytometry. Common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and bacterial vaginosis (BV)-associated bacteria were measured by PCR. Multivariable linear mixed models were used to assess the relationship between YcDNA detection and biomarkers of inflammation over time. Results: YcDNA was detected at least once in 69% (106/153) of women during the trial (median 2, range 1-5 visits), and was associated with marital status, cohabitation, the frequency of vaginal sex, and Nugent Score. YcDNA detection but not self-reported condom use was associated with elevated concentrations of several cytokines: IL-12p70, IL-10, IFN-γ, IL-13, IP-10, MIG, IL-7, PDGF-BB, SCF, VEGF, β-NGF, and biomarkers of epithelial barrier integrity: MMP-2 and TIMP-4; and with reduced concentrations of IL-18 and MIF. YcDNA detection was not associated with alterations in immune cell frequencies but was related to increased detection of P. bivia (OR = 1.970; CI 1.309-2.965; P = 0.001) at the FGT. Conclusion: YcDNA detection but not self-reported condom use was associated with alterations in cervicovaginal cytokines, BV-associated bacteria, and matrix metalloproteinases, and may have implications for HIV susceptibility in women. This study highlights the discrepancies related to self-reported condom use and the need for routine screening for biomarkers of semen exposure in studies of mucosal immunity to HIV and other STIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janine Jewanraj
- Center for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban, South Africa
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Sinaye Ngcapu
- Center for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban, South Africa
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Farzana Osman
- Center for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban, South Africa
| | - Andile Mtshali
- Center for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban, South Africa
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Ravesh Singh
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Department of Microbiology, National Health Laboratory Services, KwaZulu-Natal Academic Complex, Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital, Durban, South Africa
| | - Leila E. Mansoor
- Center for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban, South Africa
- School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Salim S. Abdool Karim
- Center for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban, South Africa
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Quarraisha Abdool Karim
- Center for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban, South Africa
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Jo-Ann S. Passmore
- Center for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban, South Africa
- Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine (IDM), University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- National Health Laboratory Services, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Lenine J. P. Liebenberg
- Center for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban, South Africa
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
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Odogwu NM, Olayemi OO, Omigbodun AO. The vaginal microbiome of sub-Saharan African women: revealing important gaps in the era of next-generation sequencing. PeerJ 2020; 8:e9684. [PMID: 32879794 PMCID: PMC7441984 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.9684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Accurate characterization of the vaginal microbiome remains a fundamental goal of the Human Microbiome project (HMP). For over a decade, this goal has been made possible deploying high-throughput next generation sequencing technologies (NGS), which indeed has revolutionized medical research and enabled large-scale genomic studies. The 16S rRNA marker-gene survey is the most commonly explored approach for vaginal microbial community studies. With this approach, prior studies have elucidated substantial variations in the vaginal microbiome of women from different ethnicities. This review provides a comprehensive account of studies that have deployed this approach to describe the vaginal microbiota of African women in health and disease. On the basis of published data, the few studies reported from the African population are mainly in non-pregnant post pubertal women and calls for more detailed studies in pregnant and postnatal cohorts. We provide insight on the use of more sophisticated cutting-edge technologies in characterizing the vaginal microbiome. These technologies offer high-resolution detection of vaginal microbiome variations and community functional capabilities, which can shed light into several discrepancies observed in the vaginal microbiota of African women in an African population versus women of African descent in the diaspora.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nkechi Martina Odogwu
- Pan African University of Life and Earth Science Institute, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University College Hospital, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo, Nigeria
| | - Oladapo O. Olayemi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University College Hospital, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo, Nigeria
| | - Akinyinka O. Omigbodun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University College Hospital, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo, Nigeria
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Assessing a diagnosis tool for bacterial vaginosis. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2020; 39:1481-1485. [PMID: 32193689 DOI: 10.1007/s10096-020-03862-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis (BV) in resource-poor settings relies on semiquantitative microscopy algorithm such as the Nugent score (NS). We evaluated a quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) assay to detect and quantify individual BV-associated bacterial communities. Vaginal swabs from 247 South African women attending an STI clinic were evaluated for BV using NS. We used qPCR to analyze DNA from vaginal swabs for eight BV-associated bacteria, Gardnerella vaginalis (GV), Prevotella bivia (PB), BV-associated bacteria 2 (BVAB2), Megasphaera-1 (M-1), Atopobium vaginae (AV), Lactobacillus crispatus (LC), Lactobacillus jensenii (LJ), and Lactobacillus iners (LI). Sensitivities and specificities were generated for each qPCR assay. Using a ROC analysis, cutoffs were calculated for each bacterial species. A logistic regression model was used to determine the strongest predictors of BV status. Nugent scores indicated 35.6% of patients harbor BV-associated flora (NS 7-10). AV, GV, GAMB (GV + AV + M-1 + BVAB2), and LC + LJ showed the highest AUC, sensitivities, and specificities (listed respectively): AV (0.96; 96%; 93%), GV (0.88; 78%; 79%), GAMB (0.9; 87%; 82%), and LC + LJ (0.84; 82%; 72%) (all p < 0.05). Increased GAMB copies (effect = 0.15, p = 0.01) and decreased LC + LJ copies (effect = - 0.26, p < 0.0001) demonstrated the strongest association with higher BV scoring. Scoring of BV did not differ across our qPCR assay when compared to the commercial BD MAX® and the gold standard Nugent scores. We developed an accurate assay, which has the potential to be used as a BV diagnosis tool that is cost-effective and has the potential to be utilized in a resource limited setting.
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Barrientos-Durán A, Fuentes-López A, de Salazar A, Plaza-Díaz J, García F. Reviewing the Composition of Vaginal Microbiota: Inclusion of Nutrition and Probiotic Factors in the Maintenance of Eubiosis. Nutrients 2020; 12:nu12020419. [PMID: 32041107 PMCID: PMC7071153 DOI: 10.3390/nu12020419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Revised: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The vaginal microbiota has importance in preserving vaginal health and defending the host against disease. The advent of new molecular techniques and computer science has allowed researchers to discover microbial composition in depth and associate the structure of vaginal microbial communities. There is a consensus that vaginal flora is grouped into a restricted number of communities, although the structure of the community is constantly changing. Certain Community-State Types (CSTs) are more associated with poor reproductive outcomes and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) meanwhile, CSTs dominated by Lactobacillus species—particularly Lactobacillus crispatus—are more related to vaginal health. In this work, we have reviewed how modifiable and non-modifiable factors may affect normal vaginal microbiota homeostasis—including sexual behavior, race or ethnicity, and hygiene. Special interest has been given to how the use of probiotics, diet intake, and use of hormone replacement therapies (HRTs) can potentially impact vaginal microbiota composition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Barrientos-Durán
- Hospital Clínico Universitario San Cecilio, Servicio de Microbiología, Instituto de Investigación ibs. GRANADA, Avenida de la Ilustración S/N, 18016 Granada, Spain
| | - Ana Fuentes-López
- Hospital Clínico Universitario San Cecilio, Servicio de Microbiología, Instituto de Investigación ibs. GRANADA, Avenida de la Ilustración S/N, 18016 Granada, Spain
| | - Adolfo de Salazar
- Hospital Clínico Universitario San Cecilio, Servicio de Microbiología, Instituto de Investigación ibs. GRANADA, Avenida de la Ilustración S/N, 18016 Granada, Spain
| | - Julio Plaza-Díaz
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, School of Pharmacy, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
- Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology “José Mataix”, Biomedical Research Center, University of Granada, Armilla, 18016 Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs GRANADA, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Granada, 18014 Granada, Spain
| | - Federico García
- Hospital Clínico Universitario San Cecilio, Servicio de Microbiología, Instituto de Investigación ibs. GRANADA, Avenida de la Ilustración S/N, 18016 Granada, Spain
- Correspondence:
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Human papillomavirus infection and cervical dysplasia in HIV-positive women: potential role of the vaginal microbiota. AIDS 2020; 34:115-125. [PMID: 31567164 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000002381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the associations between microbiological markers of vaginal dysbiosis and incident/cleared/type-swap/persistent high-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) infection; and incident/cured/cleared/persistent high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN2+) while controlling for persistent hrHPV infection. DESIGN Two nested case-control studies (N = 304 and 236) within a prospective cohort of HIV-positive women in Johannesburg, South Africa. METHODS Participants were examined for hrHPV type (INNO-LiPA), cervical dysplasia (histology), and vaginal microbiota (VMB) composition (V3-V4 Illumina HiSeq 2x300 bp) at baseline and endline, a median of 16 months later. RESULTS Women with incident hrHPV compared to those who remained hrHPV-negative were less likely to have an optimal Lactobacillus crispatus or jensenii-dominated VMB type at end-line [relative risk ratio (RRR) 0.125, P = 0.019], but not at baseline. Having different hrHPV types at both visits was associated with multiple anaerobic dysbiosis markers at baseline (e.g. increased bacterial vaginosis-associated anaerobes relative abundance: RRR 3.246, P = 0.026). Compared to women without CIN2+, but with hrHPV at both visits, women with incident CIN2+ had increased Simpson diversity (RRR 7.352, P = 0.028) and nonsignificant trends in other anaerobic dysbiosis markers at end-line but not baseline. These associations persisted after controlling for age, hormonal contraception, and CD4 cell count. Current hormonal contraceptive use (predominantly progestin-only injectables) was associated with increased CIN2+ risk over-and-above persistent hrHPV infection and independent of VMB composition. CONCLUSIONS hrHPV infection (and/or increased sexual risk-taking) may cause anaerobic vaginal dysbiosis, but a bidirectional relationship is also possible. In this population, dysbiosis did not increase CIN2+ risk, but CIN2+ increased dysbiosis risk. The CIN2+ risk associated with progestin-only injectable use requires further evaluation.
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Kayiira A, Zaake D, Lwetabe MW, Sekweyama P. Impact of genital Chlamydia trachomatis infection on reproductive outcomes among infertile women undergoing tubal flushing: a retrospective cohort at a fertility centre in Uganda. FERTILITY RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2020; 5:16. [PMID: 31890236 PMCID: PMC6909488 DOI: 10.1186/s40738-019-0069-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Background The impact of current C. trachomatis on clinical pregnancy and live birth rates among women undergoing tubal flushing is largely unknown. This study aimed to investigate whether current female genital C. trachomatis infection affects the chance of achieving a clinical pregnancy and a live birth, among infertile women undergoing tubal flushing, at a fertility centre in Uganda. Methods A retrospective Cohort study at a peri-urban fertility centre. A total of 253 eligible women with tubal factor infertility, who underwent tubal flushing, were enrolled and categorised according to their exposure to current genital C. trachomatis infection. These women were followed up for a period of 12 months, with the primary outcome measure being clinical pregnancy and live birth. Secondary outcome measures included pregnancy loss and procedural related adverse events. Results Exposure to current genital C. trachomatis infection reduced chance of clinical pregnancy (adjusted relative risk 0.42; 95% confidence interval, 0.18–0.96) and a live birth (adjusted relative risk 0.37; 95% confidence interval, 0.14–0.95) after tubal flushing. Women with current C. trachomatis infection had an increased risk of adverse events (adjusted relative risk, 1.20; 95% confidence interval, 1.08–1.34). However, current C. trachomatis infection did not affect the risk of spontaneous abortion and ectopic pregnancy. Conclusion Current genital C. trachomatis infection in women with tubal factor infertility, undergoing tubal flushing, lowers their chance of pregnancy and live birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Kayiira
- Life Sure Fertility and Gynaecology centre, St. Francis Hospital Nsambya, postgraduate medical school, Uganda Martyr's University Nkozi, Nsambya, Uganda
| | - Daniel Zaake
- Life Sure Fertility and Gynaecology centre, St. Francis Hospital Nsambya, postgraduate medical school, Uganda Martyr's University Nkozi, Nsambya, Uganda
| | | | - Peter Sekweyama
- Life Sure Fertility and Gynaecology centre, St. Francis Hospital Nsambya, postgraduate medical school, Uganda Martyr's University Nkozi, Nsambya, Uganda
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Bacterial vaginosis-A brief synopsis of the literature. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2019; 245:143-148. [PMID: 31901667 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2019.12.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2019] [Revised: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) affects women of reproductive age and can either be symptomatic or asymptomatic. Approximately 50 % of women are symptomatic and experience vaginal malodor, discharge, itching and increased vaginal pH. BV can increase the risk of contracting many sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), Neisseria gonorrhea (NG), Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), Trichomonas vaginalis (TV) and herpes simplex virus-2 (HSV-2). Though effective treatment options do exist, metronidazole or clindamycin, these methods have proven not to be effective long term. The purpose of this review is to summarize current literature on the epidemiology of BV and highlight areas of deficiency in current clinical practice with respect to BV. BV recurrence rates are high, approximately 80 % three months after effective treatment. Furthermore, in some instances treatment is ineffective and BV persists. Literature also documents the relationship between BV and human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection among young adult women while BV is the most common cause of vaginal symptoms among women of reproductive age. BV is associated with high levels of anaerobic organisms which can damage the vaginal epithelium and increase the risk of HPV infection. Recent research also highlights the role of the vaginal microbiome in BV. The results of this review warrant further exploration into the etiology of BV as well as exploration of more long-term effective treatment and the investigation of prognostic indicators. Additionally, the need for a standard definition of recurrent and persistent BV is recognized.
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Zulaika G, Kwaro D, Nyothach E, Wang D, Zielinski-Gutierrez E, Mason L, Eleveld A, Chen T, Kerubo E, van Eijk A, Pace C, Obor D, Juma J, Oyaro B, Niessen L, Bigogo G, Ngere I, Henry C, Majiwa M, Onyango CO, Ter Kuile FO, Phillips-Howard PA. Menstrual cups and cash transfer to reduce sexual and reproductive harm and school dropout in adolescent schoolgirls: study protocol of a cluster-randomised controlled trial in western Kenya. BMC Public Health 2019; 19:1317. [PMID: 31638946 PMCID: PMC6805471 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-019-7594-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Accepted: 09/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Adolescent girls in sub-Saharan Africa are disproportionally vulnerable to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) harms. In western Kenya, where unprotected transactional sex is common, young females face higher rates of school dropout, often due to pregnancy, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV. Staying in school has shown to protect girls against early marriage, teen pregnancy, and HIV infection. This study evaluates the impact of menstrual cups and cash transfer interventions on a composite of deleterious outcomes (HIV, HSV-2, and school dropout) when given to secondary schoolgirls in western Kenya, with the aim to inform evidence-based policy to improve girls’ health, school equity, and life-chances. Methods Single site, 4-arm, cluster randomised controlled superiority trial. Secondary schools are the unit of randomisation, with schoolgirls as the unit of measurement. Schools will be randomised into one of four intervention arms using a 1:1:1:1 ratio and block randomisation: (1) menstrual cup arm; (2) cash transfer arm, (3) cups and cash combined intervention arm, or (4) control arm. National and county agreement, and school level consent will be obtained prior to recruitment of schools, with parent consent and girls’ assent obtained for participant enrolment. Participants will be trained on safe use of interventions, with all arms receiving puberty and hygiene education. Annually, the state of latrines, water availability, water treatment, handwashing units and soap in schools will be measured. The primary endpoint is a composite of incident HIV, HSV-2, and all-cause school dropout, after 3 years follow-up. School dropout will be monitored each term via school registers and confirmed through home visits. HIV and HSV-2 incident infections and risk factors will be measured at baseline, mid-line and end-line. Intention to treat analysis will be conducted among all enrolled participants. Focus group discussions will provide contextual information on uptake of interventions. Monitoring for safety will occur throughout. Discussion If proved safe and effective, the interventions offer a potential contribution toward girls’ schooling, health, and equity in low- and middle-income countries. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03051789, 15th February 2017.
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Affiliation(s)
- Garazi Zulaika
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Daniel Kwaro
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Elizabeth Nyothach
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Duolao Wang
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Emily Zielinski-Gutierrez
- Center for Global Health, Division of Global Health HIV and TB, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Linda Mason
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Alie Eleveld
- Safe Water and AIDS Project (SWAP), Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Tao Chen
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Emily Kerubo
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Annemieke van Eijk
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Cheryl Pace
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - David Obor
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Jane Juma
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Boaz Oyaro
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Louis Niessen
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Godfrey Bigogo
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
| | | | - Carl Henry
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Maxwell Majiwa
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
| | | | - Feiko O Ter Kuile
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Penelope A Phillips-Howard
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK.
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Konadu DG, Owusu-Ofori A, Yidana Z, Boadu F, Iddrisu LF, Adu-Gyasi D, Dosoo D, Awuley RL, Owusu-Agyei S, Asante KP. Prevalence of vulvovaginal candidiasis, bacterial vaginosis and trichomoniasis in pregnant women attending antenatal clinic in the middle belt of Ghana. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2019; 19:341. [PMID: 31547803 PMCID: PMC6757405 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-019-2488-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2019] [Accepted: 08/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Vaginal infections usually caused by Candida sp, organisms responsible for bacterial vaginosis and Trichomonas vaginalis are associated with considerable discomfort and adverse outcomes during pregnancy and child birth. The study determined the prevalence of vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), bacterial vaginosis (BV) and trichomoniasis (TV) in pregnant women attending antenatal clinic at the Kintampo Municipal Hospital. Methods A study adopted a cross sectional design and recruited 589 pregnant women after seeking their informed consent from September, 2014 to March, 2015. Semi-structured questionnaire were administered to participants and vaginal swabs were collected. The samples were analysed using wet mount method and Gram stain (Nugent criteria) for vaginal infection. Univariate and multivariate analysis were used to investigate association of risk factors to vaginal infections. Results The overall prevalence of at least one vaginal infection was 56.4%. The prevalence of vulvovaginal candidiasis, bacterial vaginosis and trichomoniasis were 36.5, 30.9 and 1.4% respectively. Women with more than four previous pregnancies (OR: 0.27, 95% CI: 0.13–0.58) and those in the third trimester of pregnancy (OR: 0.54, CI: 0.30–0.96) were associated with a lower risk of bacterial vaginosis. Douching and antibiotic use were neither associated with VVC or BV. Conclusion The prevalence of vaginal infections was high among pregnant women in the Kintampo area. There is the need for interventions such as adequate investigations and early treatment of vaginal infections to reduce the disease burden to avoid associated complications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alex Owusu-Ofori
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, School of Medical Science, College of Health Science, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana.,Microbiology Department, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Zuwera Yidana
- Kintampo Health Research Centre, P. O. Box 200, Kintampo, Bono East, Ghana
| | - Farrid Boadu
- Kintampo Health Research Centre, P. O. Box 200, Kintampo, Bono East, Ghana
| | | | - Dennis Adu-Gyasi
- Kintampo Health Research Centre, P. O. Box 200, Kintampo, Bono East, Ghana
| | - David Dosoo
- Kintampo Health Research Centre, P. O. Box 200, Kintampo, Bono East, Ghana
| | | | - Seth Owusu-Agyei
- Kintampo Health Research Centre, P. O. Box 200, Kintampo, Bono East, Ghana.,University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Kwaku Poku Asante
- Kintampo Health Research Centre, P. O. Box 200, Kintampo, Bono East, Ghana
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Marcotte H, Larsson PG, Andersen KK, Zuo F, Mikkelsen LS, Brandsborg E, Gray G, Laher F, Otwombe K. An exploratory pilot study evaluating the supplementation of standard antibiotic therapy with probiotic lactobacilli in south African women with bacterial vaginosis. BMC Infect Dis 2019; 19:824. [PMID: 31533663 PMCID: PMC6751625 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-019-4425-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To reduce acquisition and relapse of bacterial vaginosis (BV), lactobacilli must be maintained in the vaginal microbiome. Probiotic lactobacilli may aid this purpose. We investigated whether vaginal probiotics (containing Lactobacillus rhamnosus DSM 14870 and Lactobacillus gasseri DSM 14869) would result in vaginal colonisation with lactobacilli in women with and without BV. Methods This prospective, partially randomised, exploratory pilot study was conducted in Soweto, South Africa. Thirty-nine sexually-active, HIV negative women were enrolled from October 2014 to May 2016 into three arms. Women who did not have BV (Group 1, n = 13) self-administered probiotic capsules vaginally once daily for 30 days, then once a week until Day 190. Women diagnosed with BV were randomized into Group 2 (n = 12) or Group 3 (n = 14) and treated with the triple oral antibiotic combination for vaginal discharge syndrome per South African guidelines (cefixime 400 mg stat, doxycycline 100 mg BD for 7 days and metronidazole 2 g stat). Immediately after antibiotic treatment, women in Group 2 self-administered probiotic capsules vaginally once daily for 30 days then vaginally once a week until Day 190. Women in Group 3 were not given lactobacilli. Results During the study, L. rhamnosus DSM 14870 or L. gasseri DSM 14869, were isolated in 5/13 (38.5%) women in Group 1 compared to 10/12 (83.3%) women in Group 2 (p = 0.041). The 1-month and 6-month BV cure rates were similar (P > 0.05) between Group 2 (42 and 25%) compared to Group 3 (36 and 25%). In Group 2, no correlation was observed between the frequency of isolation of the two Lactobacillus strains and the 1-month or 6-month cure rate. Conclusions Supplementation with vaginal probiotic capsules resulted in colonisation of the vagina by the Lactobacillus strains (L. rhamnosus DSM 14870 and L. gasseri DSM 14869) contained in the capsules. We observed low initial cure rates of BV after a stat dose of metronidazole and that the probiotic did not improve BV cure rates or alleviate recurrence which could be due to treatment failure or very limited power of the study. Trial registration Registered at the Pan African Clinical Trial Registry (www.pactr.org) on April 13, 2018 (retrospectively registered). Trial identification number: PACTR201804003327269. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12879-019-4425-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harold Marcotte
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Karolinska Institutet at Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, 14186, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Per Göran Larsson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Kärnsjukhuset, Skaraborg Hospital, 54185, Skövde, Sweden.,Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine (IKE), Linköping University, 58183, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Kasper Krogh Andersen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Karolinska Institutet at Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, 14186, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Fanglei Zuo
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Karolinska Institutet at Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, 14186, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | | | - Glenda Gray
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 1862, South Africa
| | - Fatima Laher
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 1862, South Africa
| | - Kennedy Otwombe
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 1862, South Africa
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Rowley J, Vander Hoorn S, Korenromp E, Low N, Unemo M, Abu-Raddad LJ, Chico RM, Smolak A, Newman L, Gottlieb S, Thwin SS, Broutet N, Taylor MM. Chlamydia, gonorrhoea, trichomoniasis and syphilis: global prevalence and incidence estimates, 2016. Bull World Health Organ 2019; 97:548-562P. [PMID: 31384073 PMCID: PMC6653813 DOI: 10.2471/blt.18.228486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 845] [Impact Index Per Article: 169.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Revised: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 05/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To generate estimates of the global prevalence and incidence of urogenital infection with chlamydia, gonorrhoea, trichomoniasis and syphilis in women and men, aged 15-49 years, in 2016. METHODS For chlamydia, gonorrhoea and trichomoniasis, we systematically searched for studies conducted between 2009 and 2016 reporting prevalence. We also consulted regional experts. To generate estimates, we used Bayesian meta-analysis. For syphilis, we aggregated the national estimates generated by using Spectrum-STI. FINDINGS For chlamydia, gonorrhoea and/or trichomoniasis, 130 studies were eligible. For syphilis, the Spectrum-STI database contained 978 data points for the same period. The 2016 global prevalence estimates in women were: chlamydia 3.8% (95% uncertainty interval, UI: 3.3-4.5); gonorrhoea 0.9% (95% UI: 0.7-1.1); trichomoniasis 5.3% (95% UI:4.0-7.2); and syphilis 0.5% (95% UI: 0.4-0.6). In men prevalence estimates were: chlamydia 2.7% (95% UI: 1.9-3.7); gonorrhoea 0.7% (95% UI: 0.5-1.1); trichomoniasis 0.6% (95% UI: 0.4-0.9); and syphilis 0.5% (95% UI: 0.4-0.6). Total estimated incident cases were 376.4 million: 127.2 million (95% UI: 95.1-165.9 million) chlamydia cases; 86.9 million (95% UI: 58.6-123.4 million) gonorrhoea cases; 156.0 million (95% UI: 103.4-231.2 million) trichomoniasis cases; and 6.3 million (95% UI: 5.5-7.1 million) syphilis cases. CONCLUSION Global estimates of prevalence and incidence of these four curable sexually transmitted infections remain high. The study highlights the need to expand data collection efforts at country level and provides an initial baseline for monitoring progress of the World Health Organization global health sector strategy on sexually transmitted infections 2016-2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Rowley
- Department of Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Avenue Appia 20, 1211 Geneva 27, Switzerland
| | - Stephen Vander Hoorn
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Nicola Low
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine (ISPM), University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Magnus Unemo
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Gonorrhoea and Other STIs, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Laith J Abu-Raddad
- Department of Healthcare Policy and Research, Weill Cornell Medical College - Qatar, Doha, Qatar
| | - R Matthew Chico
- Department of Disease Control, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, England
| | - Alex Smolak
- Department of Healthcare Policy and Research, Weill Cornell Medical College - Qatar, Doha, Qatar
| | - Lori Newman
- Enteric and Sexually Transmitted Infections Branch, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Washington DC, United States of America
| | - Sami Gottlieb
- Department of Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Avenue Appia 20, 1211 Geneva 27, Switzerland
| | - Soe Soe Thwin
- Department of Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Avenue Appia 20, 1211 Geneva 27, Switzerland
| | - Nathalie Broutet
- Department of Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Avenue Appia 20, 1211 Geneva 27, Switzerland
| | - Melanie M Taylor
- Department of Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Avenue Appia 20, 1211 Geneva 27, Switzerland
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Lemos MP, Lazarus E, Isaacs A, Dietrich J, Morgan C, Huang Y, Grove D, Andrasik M, Laher F, Hural J, Chung E, Dragavon J, Puren A, Gulati RK, Coombs R, McElrath MJ, Gray G, Kublin JG. Daily Vaginal Swabs and Mobile Phone Sex Report for Assessing HIV Virion Exposure Prospectively Among a Cohort of Young Sexually Active Women in South Africa (HVTN 915). J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2019; 81:e39-e48. [PMID: 31095007 PMCID: PMC6743720 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Measurements of HIV exposure could help identify subpopulations at highest risk of acquisition and improve the design of HIV prevention efficacy trials and public health interventions. The HVTN 915 study evaluated the feasibility of self-administered vaginal swabs for detection of HIV virions to assess exposure. METHODS Fifty 18- to 25-year-old sexually active HIV-seronegative women using contraception were enrolled in Soweto, South Africa. Participants self-administered daily vaginal swabs and answered sexual behavior questions through mobile phone for 90 days. Clinician-administered vaginal swabs, behavioral questionnaires, HIV diagnostic testing, and counseling were performed at 8 clinic visits. Glycogen concentrations assessed adherence to swabbing. Y-chromosome DNA (Yc-DNA) assessed the accuracy of reported condom use. HIV exposure was measured by virion polymerase chain reaction in swabs from 41 women who reported unprotected vaginal sex during follow-up. RESULTS Glycogen was detected in 315/336 (93.8%) participant-collected and in all clinician-collected swabs. Approximately 20/39 daily swabs (51.3%) linked to mobile reports of unprotected sex tested positive for Yc-DNA, whereas 10/187 swabs collected after 3 days of abstinence or protected sex (5.3%) had detectable Yc-DNA. No participant became HIV infected during the study; yet, exposure to HIV was detected by nucleic acids in 2 vaginal swabs from 1 participant, collected less than 1 hour after coitus. CONCLUSION There was high adherence to daily vaginal swabbing. Daily mobile surveys had accurate reporting of unprotected sex. Detection of HIV in self-collected vaginal swabs from an uninfected participant demonstrated it was possible to measure HIV exposure, but the detection rate was lower than expected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria P Lemos
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA
| | - Erica Lazarus
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Abby Isaacs
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA
| | - Janan Dietrich
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Cecilia Morgan
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA
| | - Yunda Huang
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA
| | - Doug Grove
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA
| | - Michele Andrasik
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA
| | - Fatima Laher
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - John Hural
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA
| | - Eva Chung
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA
| | - Joan Dragavon
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Adrian Puren
- Centre of HIV and Sexually Transmitted Infections, National Institute for Communicable Diseases, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Reena K Gulati
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA
| | - Robert Coombs
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Margaret Juliana McElrath
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
- Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Glenda Gray
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - James G Kublin
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA
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Asymptomatic Bacterial Vaginosis in Pregnancy and Missed Opportunities for Treatment: A Cross-Sectional Observational Study. Infect Dis Obstet Gynecol 2019; 2019:7808179. [PMID: 31186607 PMCID: PMC6521388 DOI: 10.1155/2019/7808179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Revised: 03/14/2019] [Accepted: 03/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background High rates of bacterial vaginosis (BV) have been described in nonpregnant South African women. Studies of BV in South African pregnant women are sparse. Diagnosis and prompt treatment of BV in pregnancy are expected to have a positive impact on pregnancy outcomes and HIV prevention. This study was undertaken to determine the prevalence of BV in pregnant women in a high HIV burden periurban setting in KwaZulu-Natal and explore how to enhance BV diagnosis in this setting where syndromic management of sexually transmitted diseases is the standard of care. Methods In this cross-sectional study, consenting HIV uninfected pregnant women were examined for abnormal vaginal discharge; nurses determined the vaginal pH and collected a vaginal swab for Gram-stain and Nugent scoring. Findings Among 750 HIV uninfected pregnant women, 280 (37.3%; 95%CI 33.9-40.9) tested positive for BV. Using a vaginal pH > 4.4, 65% of women with BV were correctly identified, while an abnormal vaginal discharge correctly identified a significantly lower proportion (52.9%) of women with BV (p=0.005). The sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values of vaginal pH testing were 65.9% (95%CI 60.0 – 71.5%), 61.4% (95%CI 56.8 – 65.9%), and 50.1% and 75.4%, respectively. The 20-24 year-old pregnant women were twice more likely to test positive for BV than the adolescent pregnant women (43.6% vs 21.1%) (p = 0.037) and BV was not associated with the duration of a sexual relationship, frequency of unprotected sex during pregnancy, number of lifetime sex partners, or the partner's age. Conclusion There is a high burden of primarily asymptomatic BV in HIV uninfected pregnant women in this periurban setting. Both the sensitivity and specificity of vaginal pH testing are superior to the symptomatic diagnosis of BV but not good enough to be used as a screening tool.
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Verwijs MC, Agaba SK, Sumanyi JC, Umulisa MM, Mwambarangwe L, Musengamana V, Uwineza M, Cuylaerts V, Crucitti T, Jespers V, van de Wijgert JHHM. Targeted point-of-care testing compared with syndromic management of urogenital infections in women (WISH): a cross-sectional screening and diagnostic accuracy study. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2019; 19:658-669. [PMID: 31031172 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(18)30724-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2018] [Revised: 10/24/2018] [Accepted: 11/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexually transmitted and urogenital infections are typically managed by WHO-recommended syndromic algorithms in resource-poor countries, and presumptively in Europe. However, algorithms for vaginal discharge and lower abdominal pain perform poorly in women. The women's improvement of sexual and reproductive health (WISH) study in Kigali, Rwanda, sought to improve case-finding and infection management in women by introducing point-of-care tests. The main aim was to compare the performance of the WISH algorithms and the WHO vaginal discharge and lower abdominal pain algorithms with gold standard testing. METHODS This cross-sectional screening and diagnostic accuracy study recruited women aged 18 years or older with or without urogenital symptoms at risk of acquiring sexually transmitted infections in Kigali, Rwanda. Recruitment activities were implemented by study staff with the help of community mobilisers at health centres, pharmacies, markets, women's organisations, and at "umuganda" community meetings. At the study visit, participants had a face-to-face interview that included questions about current urogenital symptoms. Participants were first asked without prompting (spontaneous reporting), followed by questions about 14 specific symptoms (structural reporting). Next, the WISH algorithms were implemented. All participants had point-of-care tests for bacterial vaginosis (vaginal pH of 5·0 or above) and Trichomonas vaginalis (immunoassay) regardless of symptom reporting. Women with a positive risk score had point-of-care tests for Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoea (nucleic acid amplification tests). Vulvovaginal candidiasis was treated presumptively. Nucleic acid amplification tests for C trachomatis, N gonorrhoeae, T vaginalis, bacterial vaginosis, and vulvovaginal candidiasis were the gold standard, and all patients provided swabs for these. FINDINGS Participants were recruited between July 5, 2016, and March 14, 2017. 705 participants were enrolled in the study and completed a study visit, and 51 attended 53 additional visits. Prevalence by gold standard testing was 8·5% for C trachomatis, 7·1% for N gonorrhoeae, 16·1% for T vaginalis, 18·1% for bacterial vaginosis, and 8·6% for vulvovaginal candidiasis. The WISH algorithms identified similar numbers of C trachomatis, N gonorrhoeae, and T vaginalis infections, but much higher numbers of bacterial vaginosis and vulvovaginal candidiasis infections. Compared with gold standard testing, the WISH algorithms had a good sensitivity and high specificity for C trachomatis (sensitivity 71·7%, specificity 100%), N gonorrhoeae (sensitivity 76·0%, specificity 100%), and T vaginalis (sensitivity 68·5%, specificity 97·4%), high sensitivity but low specificity for bacterial vaginosis (sensitivity 95·2%, specificity 41·2%), and moderate sensitivity and specificity for vulvovaginal candidiasis (sensitivity 64·4%, specificity 69·4%). The performance of vaginal pH testing for bacterial vaginosis improved by increasing the cutoff to 5·5, followed by confirmatory testing (sensitivity 73·6%, specificity 100%). The WHO algorithms had moderate sensitivity and poor specificity for all infections compared with gold standard testing: C trachomatis sensitivity 58·3%, specificity 44·7%; N gonorrhoeae sensitivity 66·0%, specificity 45·2%; T vaginalis sensitivity 60·4%, specificity 45·6%; bacterial vaginosis sensitivity 61·6%, specificity 46·0%; and vulvovaginal candidiasis sensitivity 74·6%, specificity 50·6%. Two participants attended additional visits because they had a mild allergic reaction to metronidazole. Staff and participants considered point-of-care testing feasible and acceptable. INTERPRETATION Point-of-care testing for urogenital infections might improve case-finding and infection management and is feasible in resource-poor settings. Point-of-care tests should be further developed, including those targeting multiple conditions. Additional studies in other populations, including populations with low prevalence of sexually transmitted and urogenital infections, are warranted. FUNDING European and Developing Countries Clinical Trials Partnership.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marijn C Verwijs
- Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Stephen K Agaba
- Rinda Ubuzima, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Jean-Claude Sumanyi
- Rinda Ubuzima, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Marie Michele Umulisa
- Rinda Ubuzima, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Lambert Mwambarangwe
- Rinda Ubuzima, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Viateur Musengamana
- Rinda Ubuzima, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Mireille Uwineza
- Rinda Ubuzima, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | | | | | | | - Janneke H H M van de Wijgert
- Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK; Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.
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Baqui AH, Lee ACC, Koffi AK, Khanam R, Mitra DK, Dasgupta SK, Uddin J, Ahmed P, Rafiqullah I, Rahman M, Quaiyum A, Koumans EH, Christian P, Saha SK, Mullany LC, Labrique A. Prevalence of and risk factors for abnormal vaginal flora and its association with adverse pregnancy outcomes in a rural district in north-east Bangladesh. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2019; 98:309-319. [PMID: 30346023 PMCID: PMC6389396 DOI: 10.1111/aogs.13492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2018] [Accepted: 10/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The role of screening and treatment for abnormal vaginal flora (AVF) on adverse pregnancy outcomes remains unclear. Using data from women who participated in a population-based cluster randomized trial who were screened and treated for AVF, we report risk factors for AVF and association of persistent AVF with adverse perinatal outcomes. MATERIAL AND METHODS Pregnant women (n = 4221) <19 weeks of gestation provided self-administered mid-vaginal swabs; smears were Nugent-scored. AVF was treated with oral clindamycin; if AVF was present 3 weeks after treatment, persistent AVF was re-treated. We examined risk factors for AVF and the association of persistent AVF with adverse pregnancy outcomes. RESULTS The prevalence of AVF was 16.5%: 9.8% of women had bacterial vaginosis and 6.8% had intermediate flora. Lower economic and educational status of women were associated with increased risk of AVF. One-third of women with AVF had persistent abnormal flora; these women had a higher risk of a composite measure of adverse pregnancy outcomes from 20 to <37 weeks (preterm live birth, preterm still birth, late miscarriage) (relative risk [RR] 1.33, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.07-1.65) and of late miscarriage alone (RR 4.15, 95% CI 2.12-8.12) compared to women without AVF. CONCLUSIONS In this study in Sylhet District, Bangladesh, rates of AVF and persistent AVF were high and persistent AVF was associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, with an especially high associated risk for late miscarriage. Further characterization of the microbiome and relative bacterial species density associated with persistent AVF is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah H Baqui
- International Center for Maternal and Newborn Health, Health Systems Program, Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, US
| | - Anne C C Lee
- Department of Pediatric Newborn Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, US
| | - Alain K Koffi
- International Center for Maternal and Newborn Health, Health Systems Program, Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, US
| | - Rasheda Khanam
- International Center for Maternal and Newborn Health, Health Systems Program, Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, US
| | | | - Sushil K Dasgupta
- International Center for Diarrheal Disease Research Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Jamal Uddin
- Child Health Research Foundation, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Parvez Ahmed
- International Center for Diarrheal Disease Research Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | | | - Mahmoodur Rahman
- International Center for Diarrheal Disease Research Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Abdul Quaiyum
- International Center for Diarrheal Disease Research Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Emilia H Koumans
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, US
| | | | - Samir K Saha
- Child Health Research Foundation, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Luke C Mullany
- International Center for Maternal and Newborn Health, Health Systems Program, Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, US
| | - Alain Labrique
- International Center for Maternal and Newborn Health, Health Systems Program, Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, US
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Bayigga L, Kateete DP, Anderson DJ, Sekikubo M, Nakanjako D. Diversity of vaginal microbiota in sub-Saharan Africa and its effects on HIV transmission and prevention. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2019; 220:155-166. [PMID: 30321529 PMCID: PMC10715630 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2018.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2018] [Revised: 08/27/2018] [Accepted: 10/07/2018] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
The vaginal microbial community ("microbiota") is a key component of the reproductive health of women, providing protection against urogenital infections. In sub-Saharan Africa, there is a high prevalence of bacterial vaginosis, a condition defined by bacterial overgrowth and a shift away from a Lactobacillus-dominated profile toward increased percentages of strict anaerobic species. Bacterial vaginosis is associated with an increased risk of HIV acquisition and transmission, as well as an increased risk of acquiring other sexually transmitted infections, preterm births, and pelvic inflammatory disease. Vaginal microbiota, rich in taxa of strict anaerobic species, disrupts the mucosal epithelial barrier through secretion of metabolites and enzymes that mediate inflammation. Advancements in next-generation sequencing technologies such as whole-genome sequencing have led to deeper profiling of the vaginal microbiome and further study of its potential role in HIV pathogenesis and treatment. Until recently data on the composition of the vaginal microbiome in sub-Saharan Africa have been limited; however, a number of studies have been published that highlight the critical role of vaginal microbiota in disease and health in African women. This article reviews these recent findings and identifies gaps in knowledge about variations in female genital commensal bacteria that could provide vital information to improve the effectiveness of interventions to prevent HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. In addition, we review the effects of pregnancy, contraception, and sexual practices on vaginal microbiome and the potential of vaginal microbiota on HIV transmission and prevention. A better understanding of the role of vaginal microbiota in host susceptibility to HIV infection and its prevention among African women could inform the development of novel local and systemic interventions to minimize new HIV infections among high-risk women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lois Bayigga
- Department of Immunology and Molecular Biology, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - David P Kateete
- Department of Immunology and Molecular Biology, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Deborah J Anderson
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Microbiology, and Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA
| | - Musa Sekikubo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Damalie Nakanjako
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda; Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda.
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Kruppa MD, Jacobs J, King-Hook K, Galloway K, Berry A, Kintner J, Whittimore JD, Fritz R, Schoborg RV, Hall JV. Binding of Elementary Bodies by the Opportunistic Fungal Pathogen Candida albicans or Soluble β-Glucan, Laminarin, Inhibits Chlamydia trachomatis Infectivity. Front Microbiol 2019; 9:3270. [PMID: 30692972 PMCID: PMC6339894 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2018.03270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2018] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Microbial interactions represent an understudied facet of human health and disease. In this study, the interactions that occur between Chlamydia trachomatis and the opportunistic fungal pathogen, Candida albicans were investigated. Candida albicans is a common component of the oral and vaginal microbiota responsible for thrush and vaginal yeast infections. Normally, Candida exist in the body as yeast. However, disruptions to the microbiota create conditions that allow expanded growth of Candida, conversion to the hyphal form, and tissue invasion. Previous studies have shown that a myriad of outcomes can occur when Candida albicans interacts with pathogenic bacteria. To determine if C. trachomatis physically interacts with C. albicans, we incubated chlamydial elementary bodies (EB) in medium alone or with C. albicans yeast or hyphal forms for 1 h. Following incubation, the samples were formaldehyde-fixed and processed for immunofluorescence assays using anti-chlamydial MOMP or anti- chlamydial LPS antibodies. Replicate samples were replenished with culture medium and incubated at 35°C for 0–120 h prior to fixation for immunofluorescence analysis or collection for EB infectivity assays. Data from this study indicates that both C. trachomatis serovar E and C. muridarum EB bind to C. albicans yeast and hyphal forms. This interaction was not blocked by pre-incubation of EB with the Candida cell wall components, mannan or β-glucans, suggesting that EB interact with a Candida cell wall protein or other structure. Bound EB remained attached to C. albicans for a minimum of 5 days (120 h). Infectivity assays demonstrated that EB bound to C. albicans are infectious immediately following binding (0h). However, once bound to C. albicans, EB infectivity decreased at a faster rate than EB in medium alone. At 6h post binding, 40% of EB incubated in medium alone remained infectious compared to only 16% of EB bound to C. albicans. Likewise, pre-incubation of EB with laminarin, a soluble preparation of β-glucan, alone or in combination with other fungal cell wall components significantly decreases chlamydial infectivity in HeLa cells. These data indicate that interactions between EB and C. albicans inhibit chlamydial infectivity, possibly by physically blocking EB interactions with host cell receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael D Kruppa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States.,Center for Infectious Disease, Inflammation and Immunity, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
| | - Jeremy Jacobs
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
| | - Kelsey King-Hook
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
| | - Keleigh Galloway
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
| | - Amy Berry
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States.,Center for Infectious Disease, Inflammation and Immunity, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
| | - Jennifer Kintner
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States.,Center for Infectious Disease, Inflammation and Immunity, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
| | - Judy D Whittimore
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States.,Center for Infectious Disease, Inflammation and Immunity, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
| | - Rolf Fritz
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States.,Center for Infectious Disease, Inflammation and Immunity, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
| | - Robert V Schoborg
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States.,Center for Infectious Disease, Inflammation and Immunity, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
| | - Jennifer V Hall
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States.,Center for Infectious Disease, Inflammation and Immunity, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
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46
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Kenyon CR, Delva W, Brotman RM. Differential sexual network connectivity offers a parsimonious explanation for population-level variations in the prevalence of bacterial vaginosis: a data-driven, model-supported hypothesis. BMC Womens Health 2019; 19:8. [PMID: 30630481 PMCID: PMC6327541 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-018-0703-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Accepted: 12/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence of bacterial vaginosis (BV) and vaginal microbiota types varies dramatically between different populations around the world. Understanding what underpins these differences is important, as high-diversity microbiotas associated with BV are implicated in adverse pregnancy outcomes and enhanced susceptibility to and transmission of sexually transmitted infections. MAIN TEXT We hypothesize that these variations in the vaginal microbiota can, in part, be explained by variations in the connectivity of sexual networks. We argue: 1) Couple-level data suggest that BV-associated bacteria can be sexually transmitted and hence high sexual network connectivity would be expected to promote the spread of BV-associated bacteria. Epidemiological studies have found positive associations between indicators of network connectivity and the prevalence of BV; 2) The relationship between BV prevalence and STI incidence/prevalence can be parsimoniously explained by differential network connectivity; 3) Studies from other mammals are generally supportive of the association between network connectivity and high-diversity vaginal microbiota. CONCLUSION To test this hypothesis, we propose a combination of empirical and simulation-based study designs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris R. Kenyon
- STI Unit, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Wim Delva
- The South African DST-NRF Centre of Excellence in Epidemiological, Modelling and Analysis (SACEMA), Stellenbosch, South Africa
- Department of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
- International Centre for Reproductive Health, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Center for Statistics, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
- Rega Institute for Medical Research, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Rebecca M. Brotman
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Ghent, Belgium
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Lee AC, Mullany LC, Quaiyum M, Mitra DK, Labrique A, Christian P, Ahmed P, Uddin J, Rafiqullah I, DasGupta S, Rahman M, Koumans EH, Ahmed S, Saha SK, Baqui AH. Effect of population-based antenatal screening and treatment of genitourinary tract infections on birth outcomes in Sylhet, Bangladesh (MIST): a cluster-randomised clinical trial. Lancet Glob Health 2019; 7:e148-e159. [PMID: 30554751 PMCID: PMC6293967 DOI: 10.1016/s2214-109x(18)30441-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2018] [Revised: 07/25/2018] [Accepted: 09/11/2018] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND One-third of preterm births are attributed to pregnancy infections. We implemented a community-based intervention to screen and treat maternal genitourinary tract infections, with the aim of reducing the incidence of preterm birth. METHODS We did an unblinded cluster-randomised controlled trial in two subdistricts of Sylhet, Bangladesh. Clusters were defined as the contiguous area served by a single community health worker, and each cluster comprised several contiguous villages, contained roughly 4000 people, and had about 120 births per year. Eligible participants within clusters were all ever-married women and girls of reproductive age (ie, aged 15-49 years) who became pregnant during the study period. Clusters were randomly assigned (1:1) to the intervention or control groups via a restricted randomisation procedure. In both groups, community health workers made home visits to identify pregnant women and girls and provide antenatal and postnatal care. Between 13 and 19 weeks' gestation, participants in the intervention group received home-based screening for abnormal vaginal flora and urinary tract infections. A random 10% of the control group also received the intervention to examine the similarity of infection prevalence between groups. If present, abnormal vaginal flora (ie, Nugent score ≥4 was treated with oral clindamycin (300 mg twice daily for 5 days) and urinary tract infections with cefixime (400 mg once daily for 3 days) or oral nitrofurantoin (100 mg twice daily for 7 days). Both infections were retreated if persistent. The primary outcome was the incidence of preterm livebirths before 37 weeks' gestation among all livebirths. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT01572532. The trial is closed to new participants, with follow-up completed. FINDINGS Between Jan 2, 2012, and July 28, 2015, 9712 pregnancies were enrolled (4840 in the intervention group, 4391 in the control group, and 481 in the control subsample). 3818 livebirths in the intervention group and 3557 livebirths in the control group were included in the primary analysis. In the intervention group, the prevalence of abnormal vaginal flora was 16·3% (95% CI 15·1-17·6) and that of urinary tract infection was 8·6% (7·7-9·5). The effective coverage of successful treatment in the intervention group was 58% in participants with abnormal vaginal flora (ie, abnormal vaginal flora resolved in 361 [58%] of the 622 participants who initially tested positive), and 71% in those with urinary tract infections (ie, resolution in 224 [71%] of the 317 participants who initially tested positive). Overall, the incidence of preterm livebirths before 37 weeks' gestation did not differ significantly between the intervention and control groups (21·8% vs 20·6%; relative risk 1·07 [95% CI 0·91-1·24]). INTERPRETATION A population-based antenatal screening and treatment programme for genitourinary tract infections did not reduce the incidence of preterm birth in Bangladesh. FUNDING Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development and Saving Lives at Birth Grand Challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Cc Lee
- Department of Pediatric Newborn Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Luke C Mullany
- International Center for Maternal and Newborn Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Mohammad Quaiyum
- International Center for Diarrheal Diseases-Bangladesh, Center for Reproductive Health, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | | | - Alain Labrique
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Parul Christian
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA; Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Parvez Ahmed
- International Center for Diarrheal Diseases-Bangladesh, Center for Reproductive Health, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Jamal Uddin
- Independent University, Bangladesh, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Iftekhar Rafiqullah
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, USA
| | - Sushil DasGupta
- International Center for Diarrheal Diseases-Bangladesh, Center for Reproductive Health, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Mahmoodur Rahman
- International Center for Diarrheal Diseases-Bangladesh, Center for Reproductive Health, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | | | | | - Samir K Saha
- Child Health Research Foundation, Department of Microbiology, Dhaka Shishu Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Abdullah H Baqui
- International Center for Maternal and Newborn Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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Abstract
Here we wanted to assess whether sexual risk behaviour differs dependent by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) status by following 100 HIV− and 137 HIV+ women recruited at two university teaching hospitals in Rwanda. Women were tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs; trichomoniasis, syphilis, hepatitis B and C) and for reproductive tract infections (RTIs; candidiasis, bacterial vaginosis (BV)) and were interviewed at baseline and 9 months later. BV was the most prevalent infection, while syphilis was the most common STI with a 9-month incidence of 10.9% in HIV+ women. Only 24.5% of women positive for any RTI/STI contacted their health facility and got treatment. More HIV− women than HIV+ women had had more than one sexual partner and never used condoms during the follow-up period. The use of condoms was affected neither by marital status nor by concomitant STIs besides HIV. Our data highlight the importance of public education regarding condom use to protect against STIs in an era when HIV no longer is a death sentence.
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Bacterial vaginosis: An insight into the prevalence, alternative treatments regimen and it's associated resistance patterns. Microb Pathog 2018; 127:21-30. [PMID: 30502515 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2018.11.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2018] [Revised: 11/27/2018] [Accepted: 11/27/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) is a complex polymicrobial infection of vagina that shifts the paradigms of vaginal flora from lactobacilli to opportunistic pathogens. BV is catagorized by greyish white discharge, pH greater than 4.5. It results in the preterm labor, abortion, pelvic inflammatory disorders, post cesarean infections. BV is associated with Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) or immune deficiency disorders like Human Immunodeficiency Virus, Human Papilloma Virus, Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and 2, and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. The prevalence rate is about 21.2 million (29.2%) worldwide. BV is more frequent in black females as compared to white females, independent of geographical distribution. Globally, BV is treated with the current recommended antibiotic therapy including Metronidazole and Clindamycin. The recurrence rates are 76% and occur within 06 months of treatment due to antibiotic resistance against pathogenic bacteria and their biofilms. The antibiotic resistance is a global health issue which directs the attentions towards other treatments. One of these is the treatment of sex partners, thus helping to stop the recurrence rates in females. However, this method does not show any positive results. Probiotic therapy is an incorporation of Lactobacilli orally or intravaginally for the recolonization of healthy microbes. This therapy has exhibited promising results but some studies revealed that Probiotic therapy does not control the recurrence rate. The other methods are in trials period and none of them are used clinically or commercially available for the treatment. The thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) intravaginal rings contain lactic acid and metronidazole showed promising results in trials of BV treatment. The vaginal acidifiers are used as an alternative method to maintain the vaginal pH but the process of douching is a major limitation. The activated charcoal is used to treat BV patients in clinical trials showed decrease in the pH with only 3.1% loss of lactobacilli. Phage therapy is a reemerging field to overcome the bacterial resistance. They are host specific and easier to handle. They can be used naturally, synthetically; phage cocktails and phage-antibiotics combination can be used. Phages show auspicious results for the treatment of bacterial infections as compared to antibiotics as they also treat biofilms. This is one of the promising therapy in future to treat infections with no side effects. Phage therapy can be used in pharmaceuticals according to Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidelines. Taken together, it is suggested that large funding is required by pharmaceutical sector or government for further investigation of bacteriophages to be used against BV pathogenesis.
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Kularatne RS, Niit R, Rowley J, Kufa-Chakezha T, Peters RPH, Taylor MM, Johnson LF, Korenromp EL. Adult gonorrhea, chlamydia and syphilis prevalence, incidence, treatment and syndromic case reporting in South Africa: Estimates using the Spectrum-STI model, 1990-2017. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0205863. [PMID: 30321236 PMCID: PMC6188893 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0205863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2018] [Accepted: 10/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To estimate trends in prevalence and incidence of syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia in adult men and women in South Africa. METHODS The Spectrum-STI tool estimated trends in prevalence and incidence of active syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia, fitting South African prevalence data. Results were used, alongside programmatic surveillance data, to estimate trends in incident gonorrhea cases resistant to first-line treatment, and the reporting gap of symptomatic male gonorrhea and chlamydia cases treated but not reported as cases of urethritis syndrome. RESULTS In 2017 adult (15-49 years) the estimated female and male prevalences for syphilis were 0.50% (95% CI: 0.32-0.80%) and 0.97% (0.19-2.28%), for gonorrhea 6.6% (3.8-10.8%) and 3.5% (1.7-6.1%), and for chlamydia 14.7% (9.9-21%) and 6.0% (3.8-10.4%), respectively. Between 1990 and 2017 the estimated prevalence of syphilis declined steadily in women and men, probably in part reflecting improved treatment coverage. For gonorrhea and chlamydia, estimated prevalence and incidence showed no consistent time trend in either women or men. Despite growing annual numbers of gonorrhea cases - reflecting population growth - the estimated number of first line treatment-resistant gonorrhea cases did not increase between 2008 and 2017, owing to changes in first-line antimicrobial treatment regimens for gonorrhea in 2008 and 2014/5. Case reporting completeness among treated male urethritis syndrome episodes was estimated at 10-28% in 2017. CONCLUSION South Africa continues to suffer a high STI burden. Improvements in access and quality of maternal, STI and HIV health care services likely contributed to the decline in syphilis prevalence. The lack of any decline in gonorrhea and chlamydia prevalence highlights the need to enhance STI services beyond clinic-based syndromic case management, to reinvigorate primary STI and HIV prevention and, especially for women, to screen for asymptomatic infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ranmini S. Kularatne
- Centre for HIV & STI, National Institute for Communicable Diseases, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Clinical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Ronelle Niit
- Health Information Systems Programme, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Jane Rowley
- Independent consultant, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tendesayi Kufa-Chakezha
- Centre for HIV & STI, National Institute for Communicable Diseases, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Remco P. H. Peters
- Anova Health Institute, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Melanie M. Taylor
- World Health Organization, Department of Reproductive Health and Research, Geneva, Switzerland
- USA Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Division of STD Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Leigh F. Johnson
- University of Cape Town, Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Research, Cape Town, South Africa
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