Interplay of Immunosuppression and Immunotherapy Among Patients With Cancer and COVID-19

Importance

Cytokine storm due to COVID-19 can cause high morbidity and mortality and may be more common in patients with cancer treated with immunotherapy (IO) due to immune system activation.

Objective

To determine the association of baseline immunosuppression and/or IO-based therapies with COVID-19 severity and cytokine storm in patients with cancer.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This registry-based retrospective cohort study included 12 046 patients reported to the COVID-19 and Cancer Consortium (CCC19) registry from March 2020 to May 2022. The CCC19 registry is a centralized international multi-institutional registry of patients with COVID-19 with a current or past diagnosis of cancer. Records analyzed included patients with active or previous cancer who had a laboratory-confirmed infection with SARS-CoV-2 by polymerase chain reaction and/or serologic findings.

Exposures

Immunosuppression due to therapy; systemic anticancer therapy (IO or non-IO).

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was a 5-level ordinal scale of COVID-19 severity: no complications; hospitalized without requiring oxygen; hospitalized and required oxygen; intensive care unit admission and/or mechanical ventilation; death. The secondary outcome was the occurrence of cytokine storm.

Results

The median age of the entire cohort was 65 years (interquartile range [IQR], 54-74) years and 6359 patients were female (52.8%) and 6598 (54.8%) were non-Hispanic White. A total of 599 (5.0%) patients received IO, whereas 4327 (35.9%) received non-IO systemic anticancer therapies, and 7120 (59.1%) did not receive any antineoplastic regimen within 3 months prior to COVID-19 diagnosis. Although no difference in COVID-19 severity and cytokine storm was found in the IO group compared with the untreated group in the total cohort (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.80; 95% CI, 0.56-1.13, and aOR, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.41-1.93, respectively), patients with baseline immunosuppression treated with IO (vs untreated) had worse COVID-19 severity and cytokine storm (aOR, 3.33; 95% CI, 1.38-8.01, and aOR, 4.41; 95% CI, 1.71-11.38, respectively). Patients with immunosuppression receiving non-IO therapies (vs untreated) also had worse COVID-19 severity (aOR, 1.79; 95% CI, 1.36-2.35) and cytokine storm (aOR, 2.32; 95% CI, 1.42-3.79).

Conclusions and Relevance

This cohort study found that in patients with cancer and COVID-19, administration of systemic anticancer therapies, especially IO, in the context of baseline immunosuppression was associated with severe clinical outcomes and the development of cytokine storm.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04354701.

Association of clinical factors and recent anticancer therapy with COVID-19 severity among patients with cancer: a report from the COVID-19 and Cancer Consortium

BACKGROUND

Patients with cancer may be at high risk of adverse outcomes from severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. We analyzed a cohort of patients with cancer and coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) reported to the COVID-19 and Cancer Consortium (CCC19) to identify prognostic clinical factors, including laboratory measurements and anticancer therapies.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients with active or historical cancer and a laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis recorded between 17 March and 18 November 2020 were included. The primary outcome was COVID-19 severity measured on an ordinal scale (uncomplicated, hospitalized, admitted to intensive care unit, mechanically ventilated, died within 30 days). Multivariable regression models included demographics, cancer status, anticancer therapy and timing, COVID-19-directed therapies, and laboratory measurements (among hospitalized patients).

RESULTS

A total of 4966 patients were included (median age 66 years, 51% female, 50% non-Hispanic white); 2872 (58%) were hospitalized and 695 (14%) died; 61% had cancer that was present, diagnosed, or treated within the year prior to COVID-19 diagnosis. Older age, male sex, obesity, cardiovascular and pulmonary comorbidities, renal disease, diabetes mellitus, non-Hispanic black race, Hispanic ethnicity, worse Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status, recent cytotoxic chemotherapy, and hematologic malignancy were associated with higher COVID-19 severity. Among hospitalized patients, low or high absolute lymphocyte count; high absolute neutrophil count; low platelet count; abnormal creatinine; troponin; lactate dehydrogenase; and C-reactive protein were associated with higher COVID-19 severity. Patients diagnosed early in the COVID-19 pandemic (January-April 2020) had worse outcomes than those diagnosed later. Specific anticancer therapies (e.g. R-CHOP, platinum combined with etoposide, and DNA methyltransferase inhibitors) were associated with high 30-day all-cause mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinical factors (e.g. older age, hematological malignancy, recent chemotherapy) and laboratory measurements were associated with poor outcomes among patients with cancer and COVID-19. Although further studies are needed, caution may be required in utilizing particular anticancer therapies.

CLINICAL TRIAL IDENTIFIER

NCT04354701.

Determinants of post-partum maternal mortality at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, Blantyre, Malawi: a case-control study 2001-2002

The aim of this research is to identify the clinical, demographic and service-based determinants of postpartum maternal mortality within Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, Blantyre, Malawi, during 2001 and 2002. The study uses a case-control design using all postpartum maternal deaths in 2001 and 2002 as cases, with analysis conducted using conditional logistic regression. The results indicate that the mothers' reason for admission into hospital and the outcome of the birth were significantly related to maternal death when analysing all potential explanatory variables in one model. A group of high-risk mothers can be identified using these factors. If these criteria were applied as a predictive tool in the clinical setting the resulting sensitivity and specificity would be over 85%. Identification within the hospital setting of a group of very high-risk mothers in whom serious complications are aggressively managed in a coordinated way across the medical specialties may reduce maternal mortality.

CD16+ monocyte subset preferentially harbors HIV-1 and is expanded in pregnant Malawian women with Plasmodium falciparum malaria and HIV-1 infection

In a cross-sectional study, monocyte subsets in placental, cord, and maternal peripheral blood from pregnant Malawian women with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-1 infection and/or malaria were analyzed. HIV-uninfected Malawian women had higher baseline proportions of CD16(+) monocytes than those reported for healthy adults in developed countries. Malaria was associated with an increase in the proportion of CD16(+) monocytes that was significant in women coinfected with HIV-1. CD16(+) monocytes expressed higher CCR5 levels than did CD14(hi)/CD16(-) monocytes and were significantly more likely to harbor HIV-1. These data suggest a role for CD16(+) monocytes in the pathogenesis of maternal malaria and HIV-1 infections.

Post term pregnancy at teaching hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

OBJECTIVE

To Determine pregnancy outcome between term and post term deliveries and to assess the proportion of post maturity syndrome among neonates in the two groups.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional comparative study of pregnancy outcome among term and post term mothers.

SETTING

Two teaching hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

SUBJECTS

376 post-term mothers compared to 376 term mothers.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Fetal distress, caesarean section rates, neonatal intensive care unit admission, perinatal mortality, congenital anomalies, low birth weight, Apgar scores, macrosomia and third stage complications.

RESULTS

The proportion of mothers delivering post term at the study sites was 8.8%, which agrees with most series in which diagnosis of post term was based on LNMP. There were 99 (26.3%) fetal distress in the post term group compared to 50 (11.2%) among term deliveries (P<0.001). The caesarean rate for the post term mothers was 89 (23.7%) compared to term mothers of 47(12.5%) (P<0.001). Neonatal intensive care unit admission rate for post term mothers was 25(6.7%) compared with 1(2.9%) term mothers (P<0.05). No significant differences in the rates of perinatal mortality, congenital anomalies, low birth weight, macrosomia, CPD or third stage complications were observed between the two groups, though most were relatively frequent in post terms.

CONCLUSION

Due to lack of antenatal care and late referral, the diagnosis of post terms is based on LNMP alone in most cases. Fetal distress, perinatal asphyxia and consequent caesarean delivery rate is much higher than other series. Health education on early initiation of antenatal care as well as timely referral from peripheral units is urgently needed. Based on the findings of our study we recommend that in all pregnant women (individualization is possible) with 42 completed weeks of gestation, the pregnancy should be terminated be it through vaginal or abdominal route for a better fetal outcome.

Maternal syphilis infection is associated with increased risk of mother-to-child transmission of HIV in Malawi

OBJECTIVE

To determine the association between maternal syphilis and HIV mother-to-child transmission (MTCT).

DESIGN

Prospective cohort study.

METHODS

Pregnant women admitted at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital (Malawi) in late third trimester were screened for HIV (by HIV rapid tests) and syphilis (by rapid plasma regain test and Treponema pallidum hemagglutination assay). HIV-infected women and their infants received nevirapine, according to the HIVNET 012 protocol. They were followed up at 6 and 12 weeks postpartum. Infant HIV infection was diagnosed by DNA PCR.

FINDINGS

Of the 1155 HIV-infected women enrolled, 1147 had syphilis test results, of whom 92 (8.0%) were infected. Only 751 HIV-positive women delivered live singleton infants who were tested for HIV at birth. Of these, 65 (8.7%) were HIV-infected, suggesting in utero (IU) HIV MTCT. Of the 686 infants who were HIV-negative at birth, 507 were successfully followed up. Of these, 89 (17.6%) became HIV-infected, suggesting intrapartum/postpartum (IP/PP) HIV MTCT. Maternal syphilis was associated with IU HIV MTCT, after adjusting for maternal log10 HIV-1 viral load and low birth weight (LBW) [adjusted relative risk (ARR), 2.77; 95% CI, 1.40-5.46]. Furthermore, maternal syphilis was associated with IP/PP HIV MTCT (ARR, 2.74; 95% CI, 1.58-4.74), after adjusting for recent fever, breast infection, LBW and maternal log10 HIV-1 viral load.

CONCLUSION

Maternal syphilis is associated with IU and IP/PP HIV MTCT. Screening and early treatment of maternal syphilis during pregnancy may reduce pediatric HIV infections.

Maternal-fetal microtransfusions and HIV-1 mother-to-child transmission in Malawi

BACKGROUND

Between 25% and 35% of infants born to HIV-infected mothers become HIV-1 infected. One potential route of mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) could be through a breakdown in the placental barrier (i.e., maternal-fetal microtransfusions).

METHODS AND FINDINGS

Placental alkaline phosphatase (PLAP) is a 130-kD maternal enzyme that cannot cross the intact placental barrier. We measured PLAP activity in umbilical vein serum as an indicator of maternal-fetal microtransfusion, and related this to the risk of HIV-1 MTCT. A case-cohort study was conducted of 149 women randomly selected from a cohort of HIV-1-infected pregnant Malawians; these women served as a reference group for 36 cases of in utero MTCT and 43 cases of intrapartum (IP) MTCT. Cord PLAP activity was measured with an immunocatalytic assay. Infant HIV status was determined by real-time PCR. The association between cord PLAP activity and HIV-1 MTCT was measured with logistic regression using generalized estimating equations. Among vaginal deliveries, PLAP was associated with IP MTCT (risk ratio, 2.25 per log10 ng/ml PLAP; 95% confidence interval, 0.95-5.32) but not in utero MTCT. In a multivariable model adjusted for HIV-1 RNA load, chorioamnionitis, and self-reported fever, the risk of IP MTCT almost tripled for every log10 increase in cord PLAP activity (risk ratio, 2.87; 95% confidence interval, 1.05-7.83).

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that during vaginal deliveries, placental microtransfusions are a risk factor for IP HIV-1 MTCT. Future studies are needed to identify factors that increase the risk for microtransfusions in order to prevent IP HIV-1 MTCT.

Mutations associated with sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine and chlorproguanil resistance in Plasmodium falciparum isolates from Blantyre, Malawi

We conducted a prevalence study of mutations in Plasmodium falciparum that are associated with antifolate resistance in Blantyre, Malawi. The dihydrofolate reductase 164-Leu mutation, which confers resistance to both pyrimethamine and chlorproguanil, was found in 4.7% of the samples. Previously unreported mutations in dihydropteroate synthase were also found.

Placental malaria induces variant-specific antibodies of the cytophilic subtypes immunoglobulin G1 (IgG1) and IgG3 that correlate with adhesion inhibitory activity

Antibodies targeting variant antigens on the surfaces of chondroitin sulfate A (CSA)-binding malaria-infected erythrocytes have been linked to protection against the complications of malaria in pregnancy. We examined the isotype/subtype profiles of antibodies that bound to variant surface antigens expressed by CSA-adherent Plasmodium falciparum in pregnant Malawian women with and without histologically defined placental malaria. Women in their first pregnancy with placental malaria produced significantly greater amounts of immunoglobulin G1 (IgG1) and IgG3 reactive with surface antigens of malaria-infected erythrocytes than uninfected women of the same gravidity. IgG1 and IgG3 levels in infected and control women in later pregnancies were similar to those in infected women in their first pregnancy. Levels of IgG2 and IgG4 were similarly low in infected and uninfected women of all gravidities. IgM that bound to the surface of CSA-adherent P. falciparum occurred in all groups of women and malaria-naïve controls. There was a significant correlation between IgG1 and IgG3 levels, indicating that women usually produced both subtypes. Levels of IgG1 and IgG3 correlated with the ability of serum or plasma to inhibit parasite adhesion to CSA. Taken together, these data suggest that IgG1 and IgG3 dominate the IgG response to placental-type variant surface antigens. They may function by blocking parasite adhesion to placental CSA, but given their cytophilic nature, they might also opsonize malaria-infected erythrocytes for interaction with Fc receptors on phagocytic cells.

Malaria during pregnancy and foetal haematological status in Blantyre, Malawi

BACKGROUND

Although maternal anaemia often stems from malaria infection during pregnancy, its effects on foetal haemoglobin levels are not straightforward. Lower-than-expected cord haemoglobin values in malarious versus non-malarious regions were noted by one review, which hypothesized they resulted from foetal immune activation to maternal malaria. This study addressed this idea by examining cord haemoglobin levels in relation to maternal malaria, anaemia, and markers of foetal immune activation.

METHODS

Cord haemoglobin levels were examined in 32 malaria-infected and 58 uninfected women in Blantyre, Malawi, in relation to maternal haemoglobin levels, malaria status, and markers of foetal haematological status, hypoxia, and inflammation, including TNF-alpha, TGF-beta, and ferritin. All women were HIV-negative.

RESULTS

Although malaria was associated with a reduction in maternal haemoglobin (10.8 g/dL vs. 12.1 g/dL, p < 0.001), no reduction in cord haemoglobin and no significant relationship between maternal and cord haemoglobin levels were found. Cord blood markers of haematological and hypoxic statuses did not differ between malaria-infected and uninfected women. Maternal malaria was associated with decreased TGF-beta and increased cord ferritin, the latter of which was positively correlated with parasitaemia (r = 0.474, p = 0.009). Increased cord ferritin was associated with significantly decreased birth weight and gestational length, although maternal and cord haemoglobin levels and malaria status had no effect on birth outcome.

CONCLUSION

In this population, cord haemoglobin levels were protected from the effect of maternal malaria. However, decreased TGF-beta and elevated ferritin levels in cord blood suggest foetal immune activation to maternal malaria, which may help explain poor birth outcomes.

Risk factors and mechanisms of preterm delivery in Malawi

PROBLEM

We examined risk factors and mechanisms of preterm delivery (PTD) in malaria-exposed pregnant women in Blantyre, Malawi.

METHOD OF STUDY

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), malaria, syphilis, and anemia were assessed in a cross-sectional study of 572 pregnant women. In a nested case-control study, chorioamnionitis (CAM) was examined; tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP)-1alpha, monocyte chemotactic protein (MCP)-1, transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta, cortisol, and corticotropin-releasing hormone were measured in placental, maternal and/or cord blood.

RESULTS

HIV, infrequent antenatal clinic attendance, low-maternal weight, no intermittent preventive malaria therapy (IPT), and CAM were associated with PTD, while malaria was not. Of the 18 compartmental cytokine measurements, elevations in placental and/or cord IL-6 and IL-8 were associated with both CAM and PTD. In contrast, there was no overlap between the cytokines affected by malaria and those associated with PTD.

CONCLUSIONS

The HIV and CAM were the major infections associated with PTD in this study. CAM, but not malaria, causes PTD via its effect on proinflammatory cytokines.

Likely stakeholders in the prevention of mother to child transmission of HIV/AIDS in Blantyre, Malawi

OBJECTIVES

To determine potential partners for pregnant women in the prevention of mother to child transmission of HIV and to determine pregnant women's perceptions towards selected potential HIV prevention efforts.

DESIGN

Cross sectional, questionnaire-administered study.

SETTING

Ante-natal clinics of eleven public health centers and the major referral and university teaching hospital of Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital (QECH) in Blantyre, Malawi.

SUBJECTS

A total of 321 pregnant women attending ante-natal clinics.

RESULTS

Antenatal women in Blantyre, Malawi obtain health information on HIV/AIDS from the radio (96.3%), health workers (82.2%), religious gatherings (66.7%), friends (54.8%) and newspapers (39.3%). The majority intend to be accompanied by own mother and sister for delivery (52.4% and 15.4% respectively). Almost all (99%) planned to breast feed with 91.8% reporting an intended breastfeeding period of at least 6 months. About 97% of married women reported desire to tell spouse in case of HIV sero-positive results while only 65.1% had ever discussed about HIV with spouse, and only 5.2% had ever attended antenatal clinic with spouse. Whether woman had ever discussed about HIV/AIDS with spouse or not did not influence desire to disclose HIV status to spouse.

CONCLUSION

Close relatives, spouse and the media are important stakeholders in the health of pregnant women. Programs aimed at prevention of mother to child transmission of HIV should give serious consideration to these partners.

Are public antenatal clinics in Blantyre, Malawi, ready to offer services for the prevention of vertical transmission of HIV?

At least 100% of the adult population in Malawi is infected with HIV and vertical transmission is a major mode of transmission. Currently, there are plans to provide widespread antiretroviral therapy to prevent mother to child transmission of HIV. This study was conducted to describe the perceptions of midwives towards selected issues regarding prevention of mother to child transmission of HIV in eleven public health centres in Blantyre, Malawi. A cross-sectional study using a self-administered questionnaire incorporating both open-ended and closed-ended questions was used. Twenty seven midwives participated in the study. Less than half (40.7%), of them reported working at a baby friendly hospital initiative health facility, while 96.3% reported that they would advise an HIV infected woman to breastfeed her infant. HIV prevention messages were reportedly offered routinely by 77.8% of the respondents, but only 22.2% reported that their clinics offered condoms to pregnant women. Also, only 37.0% reported offering routine STI screening, while 37.0% of the midwives would support antenatal women being accompanied by their male partners Majority (81.2%) said that women who know they are HIV infected should not become pregnant, while 37.0% reported that they would be uncomfortable to assist in the delivery of an HIV infected woman. There was lack of appropriate clinic space and sterile gloves for the proper delivery of maternity services. Midwives in Malawi need training, supervision and other support to provide adequate health care services to antenatal women.

Impairment of humoral immunity to Plasmodium falciparum malaria in pregnancy by HIV infection

BACKGROUND

HIV infection increases the risk of malaria infection in pregnant women. Antibodies to variant surface antigens (VSA) on infected erythrocytes might protect against malaria in pregnancy. We postulated that HIV-induced impairment of humoral immunity to VSA mediates the increased susceptibility to malaria.

METHODS

We compared serum concentrations of antibodies to VSA by flow cytometry or agglutination, and to merozoite proteins AMA-1 and MSP119 by ELISA, in 298 pregnant Malawian women, and related the findings to malaria and HIV infection, CD4-positive T-cell count, and HIV-1 viral load.

FINDINGS

Concentrations of IgG to placental type VSA were lower in HIV-infected women than in HIV-uninfected women (median 8 units [IQR 4-23] vs 20 [12-30]; p<0.0001), among women with malaria (p=0.009) and those without malaria (p=0.0062). The impairment was greatest in first pregnancy. Agglutinating antibodies to placental VSA were present in a lower proportion of HIV-infected than HIV-uninfected women (58 [35.1%] of 165 vs 50 [53.8%] of 93, p<0.001). The degree of antibody binding by flow cytometry was correlated with CD4-positive T-cell count (r=0.16, p=0.019) and inversely with HIV-1 viral load (r=-0.16, p=0.030). Concentrations of antibodies to AMA-1 were lower in HIV infection (p<0.0001) but were not correlated with CD4-positive T-cell count or viral load. Responses to MSP119 were little affected by HIV infection. In multivariate analyses, HIV was negatively associated with amount of antibody to both VSA and AMA-1 (p<0.001 for each) but not MSP119.

INTERPRETATION

HIV infection impairs antimalarial immunity, especially responses to placental type VSA. The impairment is greatest in the most immunosuppressed women and could explain the increased susceptibility to malaria seen in pregnant women with HIV infection.

The effect of Plasmodium falciparum malaria on peripheral and placental HIV-1 RNA concentrations in pregnant Malawian women

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of placental Plasmodium falciparum malaria infection on peripheral and/or placental HIV-1 viral load.

DESIGN

A cross-sectional study of HIV-infected pregnant women, with and without placental malaria, delivering at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital in Malawi.

METHODS

Peripheral blood samples were collected from consenting women and tested for HIV. HIV-infected women received nevirapine at the onset of labor. At delivery, placental blood and tissue specimens were collected. HIV-1 RNA concentrations were measured in peripheral and placental plasma samples, and malaria infection was determined by placental histopathology.

RESULTS

Of the 480 HIV-infected women enrolled, 304 had placental histopathology performed, of whom 74 (24.3%) had placental malaria. Compared with women without placental malaria, those with placental malaria had a 2.5-fold higher geometric mean peripheral HIV-1 RNA concentration (62,359 versus 24 814 copies/ml; P = 0.0007) and a 2.4-fold higher geometric mean placental HIV-1 RNA concentration (11,733 versus 4919 copies/ml; P = 0.008). In multivariate analyses, after adjusting for CD4 cell count and other covariates, placental malaria was associated with a 1.7-fold increase in geometric mean peripheral HIV-1 RNA concentration (47,747 versus 27,317 copies/ml; P = 0.02) and a 2.0-fold increase in geometric mean placental HIV-1 RNA concentration (9670 versus 4874 copies/ml; P = 0.03).

CONCLUSION

Placental malaria infection is associated with an increase in peripheral and placental HIV-1 viral load, which might increase the risk of mother-to-child transmission of HIV.

Knowledge and perceptions of antenatal women towards prevention of mother to child transmission of HIV/AIDS in Blantyre, Malawi

OBJECTIVES

To determine antenatal attendees' knowledge and perceptions towards selected aspects of prevention of mother to child transmission of HIV.

SETTING

Five rural and six urban public health centers in Blantyre District, Malawi.

SUBJECTS

126 consecutive pregnant women attending antenatal clinics.

DESIGN

Cross sectional qualitative study utilizing focus group discussions (FGDs). Analysis was based on content analysis.

RESULTS

Knowledge about HIV/AIDS especially regarding causative agents of AIDS, transmission and prevention was generally high in all FGDs. One individual though, suggested that HIV was transmitted by mosquito bites and another that HIV was transmitted by being exposed to persistent coughing. The majority of 126 women identified HIV testing of pregnant women as of potential benefit and necessary for the prevention and control of HIV/AIDS. In most cases, the benefit mentioned for HIV testing was that it was good to know about one's HIV status rather than being ignorant. Other suggested benefits of HIV testing of pregnant women were: future family planning, as an incentive to reduce the number of sexual partners and to know the cause of the problem in case a child is failing to thrive rather than blame witchcraft. Male spouses were identified as both potential supporters and limiting agents towards pregnant women's acceptability of HIV testing.

CONCLUSION

HIV testing among pregnant women to ensure prevention of mother to child transmission of HIV is a complex issue. Women consider various factors before making decisions. Programme planners and implementing agencies need to be aware of these issues and work together with women and other stakeholders in order to overcome such limitations.

Antibodies to variant surface antigens of Plasmodium falciparum-infected erythrocytes and adhesion inhibitory antibodies are associated with placental malaria and have overlapping and distinct targets

We measured antibodies to chondroitin sulfate A (CSA)-binding and placental Plasmodium falciparum-infected red blood cells (PRBCs) among pregnant women with or without placental malaria. Immunoglobulin G to PRBC surface antigens was rare in uninfected primigravidae (3.7%), more prevalent in infected primigravidae (70%; P<.001), and common in infected (77%) and uninfected (83%) multigravidae. Similar patterns were seen for agglutinating antibodies, and antibodies were similar among women with past or active placental infection. PRBC adhesion to CSA was inhibited 60% by serum from infected primigravidae but 24% by serum from uninfected primigravidae (P=.025), whereas infection did not alter adhesion inhibition by multigravidae (77% inhibition)[corrected]. There was substantial heterogeneity in antibody type and levels. Antibodies did not correlate with parasite density or pregnancy outcome. Comparisons between antibodies suggest that adhesion-inhibitory antibodies and those to PRBC variant antigens have distinct and overlapping epitopes, may be acquired independently, and have different roles in immunity.

Perinatal mortality audit at Tikure Anbessa Teaching Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: 1995 to 1996

OBJECTIVES

To determine the prevalence and causes of perinatal mortality rates at Tikure Anbessa hospital, Ethiopia, 1995-96.

DESIGN

A cross-sectional review of hospital records of all women who delivered at Tikure Anbessa Hospital. Data were collected prospectively.

SETTING

Teaching Hospital of Tikure Anbessa, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

SUBJECTS

Women and neonates from 8986 deliveries. Deliveries exceeding 28 weeks of gestation or birth weight of 1000 grams were considered.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All deliveries were included for infants whose gestational age exceeded 28 completed weeks. When the gestational age was unknown, the birth weight of 1000 grams or more was considered. All perinatal deaths and obstetric complications were identified. Labour chart, mode of delivery and summary of delivery had been recorded by the responsible resident at a monthly combined obstetric and paediatric perinatal mortality meeting. Age of the mother, parity, booking status for antenatal care, obstetric complications, labour, mode of delivery, birth weight, gestational age, one and five minutes Apgar scores were collected.

RESULTS

A total of 8986 deliveries were conducted during the study period. Of these 6933 (77.2%) were booked for antenatal care while the remaining 2053 (22.8%) were not booked in any health institution. The perinatal mortality rate of the hospital was 71.6 per 1000 live births. The risk of perinatal mortality was more than doubled among mothers who failed to book for antenatal care follow-up and no laboratory investigations was done were birth asphyxia followed by premature birth 15.4% and 12% respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Perinatal mortality rates are high at Tikure Anbessa Hospital, Ethiopia. There is need to ensure that pregnant women are booked for antenatal care so as to provide adequate antenatal and perinatal health care.

Host response to malaria during pregnancy: placental monocyte recruitment is associated with elevated beta chemokine expression

Malaria during pregnancy is associated with poor birth outcomes, particularly low birth weight. Recently, monocyte infiltration into the placental intervillous space has been identified as a key risk factor for low birth weight. However, the malaria-induced chemokines involved in recruiting and activating placental monocytes have not been identified. In this study, we determined which chemokines are elevated during placental malaria infection and the association between chemokine expression and placental monocyte infiltration. Placental malaria infection was associated with elevations in mRNA expression of three beta chemokines, macrophage-inflammatory protein 1 (MIP-1) alpha (CCL3), monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1; CCL2), and I-309 (CCL1), and one alpha chemokine, IL-8 (CXCL8); all correlated with monocyte density in the placental intervillous space. Placental plasma concentrations of MIP-1 alpha and IL-8 were increased in women with placental malaria and were associated with placental monocyte infiltration. By immunohistochemistry, we localized placental chemokine production in malaria-infected placentas: some but not all hemozoin-laden maternal macrophages produced MIP-1 beta and MCP-1, and fetal stromal cells produced MCP-1. In sum, local placental production of chemokines is increased in malaria, and may be an important trigger for monocyte accumulation in the placenta.

Placental monocyte infiltrates in response to Plasmodium falciparum malaria infection and their association with adverse pregnancy outcomes

Maternal anemia and low birth weight (LBW) may complicate malaria in pregnancy, and placental monocyte infiltrates have been associated with LBW, and anecdotally with anemia. We examined placental pathology from 357 Malawian women. Intervillous monocyte infiltrates were frequent in placental malaria and were not seen in uninfected placentas. Histology was grouped according to a 5-point scale. Dense monocyte infiltrates and presence of intramonocytic malaria pigment were associated with anemia and LBW. Of factors associated with LBW and/or anemia in univariate analysis, gravidity (P = 0.002), number of antenatal clinic (ANC) visits (P < 0.001), malaria pigment in fibrin (P = 0.03), and monocyte malaria pigment (P = 0.0001) remained associated with lower birth weight by multivariate analysis. Associated with maternal anemia were HIV infection (P < 0.0001), intervillous monocyte numbers (P < 0.0001), number of ANC visits (P = 0.002), and recent febrile symptoms (P = 0.0001). Pigment-containing placental monocytes are associated with anemia and LBW due to malaria, and may have a causative role in their development.

Placental tumor necrosis factor alpha but not gamma interferon is associated with placental malaria and low birth weight in Malawian women

Malaria in pregnancy predisposes to maternal anemia and low birth weight (LBW). We examined the possible roles of the cytokines tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) and gamma interferon (IFN-gamma) in these adverse outcomes. We measured cytokine concentrations in placental, peripheral, and cord blood plasma in relation to malaria parasitemia and placental monocyte accumulation in 276 Malawian women. Maternal hemoglobin concentration, human immunodeficiency virus status, and infant birth weight were determined. Concentrations of TNF-alpha in placental blood were correlated with densities of Plasmodium falciparum-infected erythrocytes (P < 0.0001) and of intervillous monocyte infiltrates (P < 0.0001) on placental histology. Peripheral blood TNF-alpha concentrations were relatively low and were weakly associated with malaria. TNF-alpha concentrations were higher in placental blood, where they were strongly associated with malaria. Placental plasma TNF-alpha levels were higher in women who had LBW babies (P = 0.0027), women with febrile symptoms (P < 0.0001), and teenage mothers (P = 0.04) than in other women. The presence of TNF-alpha in cord blood was not associated with malaria infection. IFN-gamma levels were infrequently elevated, and elevated IFN-gamma levels were not associated with poor pregnancy outcomes. Placental production of TNF-alpha, but not of IFN-gamma, may be implicated in impaired fetal growth in Malawian women.

An audit of deliveries and outcome at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, Blantyre, in 1999

A one-year audit of deliveries at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, Blantyre, was undertaken for 1999. The main objective of the audit was to obtain baseline data on forms of deliveries and pregnancy outcome. A total of 12,293 births occurred during the study period. Of these, 11,565 were singleton deliveries, 349 twin deliveries and 10 triplets. Characteristics of singleton deliveries were analysed further when data were available. The age distribution of the mothers ranged from 10 to 55 years with a mean age of 23.4 years. Of 10,314 singleton deliveries, 8710 (84.4%) were spontaneous vertex deliveries, 1121 (10.8%) were caesarian section, 304 (2.94%) were vacuum extraction and 169 (1.63%) were assisted breech deliveries. Breech deliveries had the worst outcome. The maternal mortality rate for the year 1999 was 1224 per 100,000 live births and the perinatal mortality rate was 49.3 per 1000 live births.

Illegal abortions in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

OBJECTIVES

To identify the primary abortionist while the patient is in the hospital; to determine the type of materials used to terminate the pregnancy; to determine the number of attempts made to terminate the index pregnancy and; to characterise women with induced abortions at five hospitals in the City of Addis Ababa.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional hospital-based descriptive multi-centre (WHO) study.

SETTING

Addis Ababa University, Faculty of Medicine.

SUBJECTS

All cases of abortions admitted to the study hospitals at five hospitals with obstetric and gynaecologic services.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Identification of the primary abortionist, the places where abortion is carried out, the number of attempts made to terminate the index pregnancy and the materials used to terminate the pregnancy and reasons for terminating the pregnancy.

RESULTS

A total of 2275 cases of abortion had been identified and managed in the five study hospitals. The study demonstrated that 984 (43.3%) were spontaneous abortions. Of the 1290 illicit or unsafe abortions admitted by the patients (certainly induced) in 455 (35.3%) of the abortions were performed by the health assistants, 366 (28.3%) self-induced, and 306 (23.7%) by cleaners working in the operation theatres. In 744 (60%) of the abortion procedures were carried out at the abortionists home while 452 (35%) at the patients' home. The remaining 94 (5%) of the abortions were done safely in the hospital or doctor's office by professionals. The most commonly used methods for inducing the abortions were; in 417 (32.3%) high doses of ampicillin per OS, and in 414 (32.1%) by inserting plastic tubes (intravenous giving set) per vagina.

CONCLUSION

The issue of abortion clearly presents an enormous complex moral and ethical dilemma. The study results are very clear. Where abortion is illegal or where the services are not readily available and/or personnel are not well trained, unsafe abortion carries a high risk of complications, permanent damage resulting in infertility and even death. The question is not really whether or not abortion should be legal or illegal but whether or not it should be prevented through modern family planning methods, safe or unsafe abortions. In all societies no matter what the legal moral or cultural status of abortion are, there will be some women who will desperately seek to terminate an unwanted or unplanned pregnancy. Unsafe abortion is a major medical and public health problem in Ethiopia. The magnitude of the problem in terms of numbers affected, and severe adverse consequences can no longer be ignored.

Adolescent pregnancies in Addis Ababa

OBJECTIVE

To determine the pattern, obstetric outcome, knowledge and practice of modern family planning methods and factors that predispose to pregnancy among adolescent mothers.

DESIGN

A descriptive study comparing findings in adolescent and mature mothers.

SETTING

Two teaching Hospitals in Addis Ababa.

SUBJECTS

Adolescent mothers under 20 years of age and mature mothers aged between 20 and 34 years.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Age at pregnancy, demographic variables, gestational age, parity, antenatal care attendance, modes of deliveries, birthweight, Apgar scores, condition of babies at birth and knowledge and utilisation of modern contraceptive methods.

RESULTS

Five hundred and sixty nine (74%) of the adolescents were single compared with 226 (29%) of mature mothers (p<0.001, OR 6.83, 95%; CI=5.47-8.45). There were 391 (51%) unemployed adolescents compared with 99 (13%) of mature mothers (p<0.001, OR 7.0, 95% CI 3.06-5.05). Five hundred and twelve (67%) of the adolescent pregnant mothers failed to attend antenatal clinic compared with 344 (45%) of the mature mothers (p<0.001, OR 0.41, 95% CI=0.33, 0.5). Two hundred (26%) of adolescent mothers underwent Caesarean section compared with 82 (11%) of mature mothers (p<0.001, OR 2.44, 95% CI=1.90, 4.56). Two hundred and fifty six (33%) of the adolescent mothers delivered low birthweight babies compared with 106 (14%) of mature mothers (p<0.001, OR 3.12, 95% CI=2.4, 3.99). The one and five minute Apgar scores were less than seven in 301 (39%) babies born to adolescent mothers compared with 20 (27%) babies born to mature mothers (p<0.001, OR 1.73, 95% CI=1.39, 2.14. Five hundred and twelve (67%) of adolescent mothers had no knowledge about modern contraceptive methods compared with 147 (19%) mature mothers (p<0.001, OR 0.12, 95% CI=0.45-0.49).

CONCLUSION

Adolescent pregnancy is common in the city of Addis Ababa. Adolescent pregnancy study revealed low birthweight, high Caesarean section rate and foeto-pelvic disproportion as a consequence of incomplete development of the bony pelvis. Improved education and contraceptive services are needed to reduce the incidence of adolescent pregnancy.

Caesarean section deliveries at Tikur Anbessa Teaching Hospital, Ethiopia

This prospective hospital-based study was done at Tikur Anbessa Teaching Hospital (TATH) between July 1991 and July 1992 in order to obtain base-line data on the rates of caesarean section, pregnancy out-come, major indications for caesarean and caesarean section complications. Out of a total of 3237 deliveries conducted during the study period, 318(10%) were caesarean section. The leading or the major indication for abdominal deliveries were: repeat caesarean section, 103(32.4%), cephalo-pelvic disproportion, 93(29.2%), placenta previa and abruptio-placentae 40(12.6%). Age ranged from 15-40 years, 58(18.2%) were women under the age of 20, and 182(57%) were between 20 and 30 years of age which is the safest period to bear children. Eighty one (25%) of the mothers were primiparae, 158(50%) were between para one and para four, 79(25%) were grand multiparae. Seventy six (24%) of the cases were not registered for antenatal care in any health institutions. Two hundred and fifteen (67.6%) of the mothers had primary caesarean section. The chance of repeat caesarean section was statistically significant (P < 0.001). Fifty seven (18%) had elective caesarean section and 261 (82%) were emergency caesarean section. On eight (2.5%) of the patient, obstetric hysterectomy was performed. There were five maternal deaths among the caesarean section cases. The main cause of maternal death was failure to control bleeding during the caesarean section. These were preventable deaths in experienced hands. There were nine (2.8%) stillbirths and 15(4.7%) early neonatal deaths. A foetal wastage of 24(7.5%) was noted in the study. The mean birthweight among booked caesarean section were 3108 grams and unbooked caesarean section were 2991 grams. The major obstetric complications in the cases were antepartum haemorrhage, and 34(11%), pregnancy induced-hypertensive disorder, 32(10%). Sixty one (19%) had blood transfusion. The blood loss was significantly more in operations done by residents compared to consultants even using the most crude measurement as estimated by the operator at the time.

Return of fertility after an IUD removal for planned pregnancy: a six year prospective study

This study was conducted in a series of 810 women who opted to use copper T-200 as a reliable form of contraception. The objective of the study was to determine the return of fertility after the removal of the IUD and to identify IUD related complications in an African setting. The study focused on 810 women who had requested for the removal of their IUDs at the time of planned pregnancy. Out of 810 cases, only 780 cases were analysed. In eight (1%) of the cases, the IUD was removed because of full blown pelvic infection and 22 (2.8%) of the cases lost to follow up. The mean age was 29 years. Twenty five (3.2%) of the cases were nulligravidae, 729 (93.5%) multipara, and 45 (3.3%) grand multipara. Six hundred and fifty (83.3%) were married. All the clients who entered the study could afford to go to private clinic for family planning services. Conception occurred in 160 (20.5%) in the first two cycles, 201 (25.8%) between the third and fifth cycle, 250 (32%) between the sixth and eight cycles and 60 (7.7%) between the ninth and twelfth cycle. The remaining 109 (13.9%) of the cases failed to conceive within one year after the removal of IUCD. They have unprotected sexual intercourse for a period of one year. Finally, the pregnancy out come showed the following results: spontaneous abortion 57 (7.3%), preterm birth 25 (3.2%), term delivery 589 (75.5%) and no pregnancy after the removal of the IUD in 109 (13.9%), respectively.

Intrauterine devices: results of a separate clinical and ultrasound follow-up study

A separate clinical and ultrasound study was carried out in 20 unselected patients receiving an IUD (ML Cu 250 or Cu T-200). Clinical adverse effects were studied in relation to ultrasound findings after 0, 2 and 6 months of insertion. Using both the sound length and initial ultrasound measurements, it was possible to calculate that none of the 20 IUDs reached the fundal wall of the uterine cavity (distance 0.1-2.4 cm). The mean initial distance between the top of the uterine fundal wall and the top of the IUD (TOP) was 2.0 cm (range 1.3-2.4 cm). A downward displacement of more than 0.5 cm in consecutive measurements was observed in 3 patients. Malposition of one or two arms of the IUD was found in 8 patients. In 6 of these patients clinical complaints were present.

Evaluation of 24 patients with IUD-related problems: hysteroscopic findings

The clinical and diagnostic findings in 24 patients with IUD-related abnormal uterine bleeding or missing IUDs have been evaluated with special reference to hysteroscopy. For the IUD-related abnormal uterine bleeding no gross uterine or tissue pathology has been revealed except for chronic inflammatory reaction of the endometrium. In half of the cases the IUD showed embedment, displacement within the uterine cavity or migration into the uterine wall, which may be a possible cause of the IUD-related abnormal uterine bleeding. For the detection and removal of IUDs with missing strings, partially embedded and perforated IUDs or retained broken parts of it, the hysteroscopic procedure appeared to be invaluable and in our opinion should be the method of choice.

In vivo measurements of uterine cavities in 795 women of fertile age

The uterine sound length, the functional length of the cervix including the zone of internal cervical os and the fundus transversal were determined in 795 fertile women in vivo using a measuring device, the Cavimeter. The functional cavity length was calculated by subtracting the functional length of the cervix from the uterine sound length. With growing parity, the uterine length and width increase, but with advance in age, the uterine cavity changes are not so distinct. The wide ranges found by the investigation demonstrate the individuality of the uterine cavity and the desire to measure it prior to fitting an IUD. The use of adapted IUDs according to the size of the uterine cavity leads to a remarkable reduction of side effects, particularly expulsion, bleeding and cramps caused mainly by dimensional incompatibility. Therefore prefit uterine cavity measurement can lead to better efficacy of IUDs, increased rates of acceptance and higher continuation rates.