The Evolving Spectrum of Kidney Histology in HIV-Positive Patients in South Africa

Introduction

Sub-Saharan Africa remains challenged by the highest burden of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), an epidemic of tuberculosis (TB), and increasing number of people with HIV (PWH) on antiretroviral therapy (ART), all of which may result in kidney injury.

Methods

This observational cohort study describes the spectrum of kidney disease in PWH in South Africa, between 2005 and 2020. Kidney biopsies were analyzed in 4 time periods as follows: early ART rollout (2005-2009), tenofovir disoproxil (TDF) introduction (2010-2012), TDF-based fixed dose combination (2013-2015), and ART at HIV diagnosis (2016-2020). Logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with HIV-associated nephropathy or focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (HIVAN/FSGS) and tubulointerstitial disease (TID).

Results

We included 671 participants (median age 36, interquartile range, 21-44 years; 49% female; median CD4 cell count 162 [interquartile range, 63-345] cells/mm3). Over time, ART (31%-65%, P < 0.001), rate of HIV suppression (20%-43%, P < 0.001), nonelective biopsies (53%-72%, P < 0.001), and creatinine at biopsy (242-449 μmol/l, P < 0.001) increased. A decrease in HIVAN (45%-29% P < 0.001) was accompanied by an increase in TID (13%-33%, P < 0.001). Granulomatous interstitial nephritis accounted for 48% of TID, mostly because of TB. Exposure to TDF was strongly associated with TID (adjusted odds ratio 2.99, 95% confidence interval 1.89-4.73 P < 0.001).

Conclusion

As ART programs intensified and increasingly used TDF, the spectrum of kidney histology in PWH evolved from a predominance of HIVAN in the early ART era to TID in recent times. The increase in TID is likely due to multiple exposures that include TB, sepsis, and TDF as well as other insults.

0595 Inflammatory Plasma Biomarker Cluster Associations with Sleep in People with and without HIV

Introduction

Sleep problems are commonly reported in people with HIV (PWH) and may be exacerbated by HIV-induced inflammation. We determined associations between systemic inflammation and objective/subjective sleep measures in PWH and demographically/lifestyle similar HIV-negative controls.

Methods

Objective sleep measures from 7-day actigraphy (e.g. mean/standard deviation (SD) of wake after sleep onset [WASO], sleep duration/efficiency), overnight oximetry (oxygen desaturation index [ODI]), and patient-reported measures (Insomnia Severity Index [ISI] and Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System [PROMIS] sleep questionnaires) were assessed in participants in the multicenter POPPY-Sleep Study in the UK and Ireland. Principal Component Analysis using 31 plasma inflammatory biomarkers followed by cluster analysis previously identified 3 distinct inflammatory clusters: 1 (low inflammation), 2 (immune activation) and 3 (systemic inflammation). Baseline characteristics and between-cluster differences in sleep outcomes were assessed using Kruskal-Wallis or logistic regression/Chi-squared tests.

Results

The 465 participants (74% PWH, median [interquartile range] age 54 [50-60] years) were mainly male (80%), men having sex with men (71%) and white (88%). Among PWH, most (98%) were on antiretroviral therapy, 92% had viral load ≤50 cps/mL and CD4 cell count was 610 [470-785] cells/mm3. Overall, 18% met ISI criteria for insomnia (ISI≥ 15), and other sleep measures suggested generally good sleep (e.g., ODI 3.1/hr [1.5-6.4]). Clusters 1 (n=209), 2 (n=47) and 3 (n=209) differed significantly for HIV status (73%, 60%, 78%, p=0.03); BMI (24.8, 25.9, 26.2 kg/m2, p=0.002); systolic blood pressure (126, 135, 126 mmHg, p=0.002); cardiovascular disease (39%, 28%, 53%, p=0.001) and arthritis (8%, 9%,16%, p=0.02) – all factors associated with sleep problems. There were no clinically relevant between-biomarker-cluster differences in the proportions with insomnia (17%, 18%, 20%) either before (p=0.76) or after (p=0.75) adjustment for potential confounders. Few associations were observed among other actigraphy, oximetry and PROMIS measures.

Conclusion

Despite observed differences in clinical factors associated with sleep problems, we found no consistent or strong associations between inflammatory biomarker clusters and a range of sleep outcomes. Although associations could exist with other sleep outcomes (e.g. sleep architecture) or biomarker types (e.g. cerebrospinal fluid) not assessed, our findings do not support a strong association between sleep and plasma inflammatory biomarkers in this population.

Support (If Any)

NIH R01HL131049

The Prevalence and Patterns of Menopausal Symptoms in Women Living with HIV

Increasing numbers of women with HIV are experiencing menopause. We use data from a large, representative sample of women with HIV to describe the prevalence and clustering of menopausal symptoms amongst pre-, peri- and post-menopausal women using hierarchical agglomerative cluster analysis. Of the 709 women included, 21.6%, 44.9% and 33.6% were pre-, peri- and post-menopausal, respectively. Joint pain (66.4%) was the most commonly reported symptom, followed by hot flashes (63.0%), exhaustion (61.6%) and sleep problems (61.4%). All symptoms were reported more commonly by peri- and post-menopausal women compared to pre-menopausal women. Psychological symptoms and sleep problems clustered together at all menopausal stages. Somatic and urogenital symptom clusters emerged more distinctly at peri- and post-menopause. We recommend regular and proactive assessment of menopausal symptoms in midlife women with HIV, with an awareness of how particular patterns of symptoms may evolve over the menopausal transition.

A highly virulent variant of HIV-1 circulating in the Netherlands

We discovered a highly virulent variant of subtype-B HIV-1 in the Netherlands. One hundred nine individuals with this variant had a 0.54 to 0.74 log₁₀ increase (i.e., a ~3.5-fold to 5.5-fold increase) in viral load compared with, and exhibited CD4 cell decline twice as fast as, 6604 individuals with other subtype-B strains. Without treatment, advanced HIV-CD4 cell counts below 350 cells per cubic millimeter, with long-term clinical consequences-is expected to be reached, on average, 9 months after diagnosis for individuals in their thirties with this variant. Age, sex, suspected mode of transmission, and place of birth for the aforementioned 109 individuals were typical for HIV-positive people in the Netherlands, which suggests that the increased virulence is attributable to the viral strain. Genetic sequence analysis suggests that this variant arose in the 1990s from de novo mutation, not recombination, with increased transmissibility and an unfamiliar molecular mechanism of virulence.

Association between health-related quality of life and menopausal status and symptoms in women living with HIV aged 45-60 years in England: An analysis of the PRIME study

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to compare the health-related quality of life between mid-life women with HIV and the general population and to investigate the association between health-related quality of life and menopausal (1) status and (2) symptoms among women with HIV.

Methods:

Cross-sectional data of women with HIV aged 45–60 years from the Positive Transitions Through the Menopause Study. Health-related quality of life was assessed using the Euroqol questionnaire with utility scores categorizing health as perfect (score = 1.00), sub-optimal (0.75–0.99) or poor (< 0.75). Scores were compared between Positive Transitions Through the Menopause study participants and women (aged 45–59 years) from the Health Survey for England. Associations between health-related quality of life and menopausal status/symptoms in Positive Transitions Through the Menopause participants were assessed using a multivariable two-part regression model, the results of which are combined to produce a single marginal effect.

Results:

In total, 813 women from the Positive Transitions Through the Menopause study were included (median age 49 (interquartile range: 47–53) years); the majority were of Black African ethnicity (72.2%). Overall, 20.9%, 43.7% and 35.3% of women were pre-, peri- and post-menopausal, respectively, and 69.7% experienced mild/moderate/severe menopausal symptoms. Approximately, 40% reported perfect health, 22.1% sub-optimal health and 39.0% poor health, similar to women from the Health Survey for England (perfect health: 36.9%, sub-optimal health: 25.2%, poor health: 37.9%). In multivariable models, we found an association between health-related quality of life and peri-menopausal status (marginal effect: 0.07 (0.02, 0.12)); however, the association with post-menopausal status was attenuated (marginal effect: 0.01 (–0.05, 0.06)). There remained a strong association between lower utility scores and moderate (marginal effect: 0.16 (0.11, 0.20)) and severe (marginal effect: 0.32 (0.27, 0.39)) menopausal symptoms.

Conclusion:

There were no differences in health-related quality of life between women with HIV (Positive Transitions Through the Menopause participants) and women from the Health Survey for England dataset. Among Positive Transitions Through the Menopause participants, health-related quality of life was reduced in peri-menopausal women and those with increasingly severe menopausal symptoms. Our findings highlight the importance of proactive assessment of menopausal status and symptoms to optimize health-related quality of life in women living with HIV as they reach mid-life and beyond.

Correction to: COVID-19-related acute kidney injury; incidence, risk factors and outcomes in a large UK cohort

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.

COVID-19-related acute kidney injury; incidence, risk factors and outcomes in a large UK cohort

BACKGROUND

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is common among patients hospitalised with COVID-19 and associated with worse prognosis. The aim of this study was to investigate the epidemiology, risk factors and outcomes of AKI in patients with COVID-19 in a large UK tertiary centre.

METHODS

We analysed data of consecutive adults admitted with a laboratory-confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 across two sites of a hospital in London, UK, from 1st January to 13th May 2020.

RESULTS

Of the 1248 inpatients included, 487 (39%) experienced AKI (51% stage 1, 13% stage 2, and 36% stage 3). The weekly AKI incidence rate gradually increased to peak at week 5 (3.12 cases/100 patient-days), before reducing to its nadir (0.83 cases/100 patient-days) at the end the study period (week 10). Among AKI survivors, 84.0% had recovered renal function to pre-admission levels before discharge and none required on-going renal replacement therapy (RRT). Pre-existing renal impairment [odds ratio (OR) 3.05, 95%CI 2.24-4,18; p <  0.0001], and inpatient diuretic use (OR 1.79, 95%CI 1.27-2.53; p <  0.005) were independently associated with a higher risk for AKI. AKI was a strong predictor of 30-day mortality with an increasing risk across AKI stages [adjusted hazard ratio (HR) 1.59 (95%CI 1.19-2.13) for stage 1; p < 0.005, 2.71(95%CI 1.82-4.05); p < 0.001for stage 2 and 2.99 (95%CI 2.17-4.11); p < 0.001for stage 3]. One third of AKI3 survivors (30.7%), had newly established renal impairment at 3 to 6 months.

CONCLUSIONS

This large UK cohort demonstrated a high AKI incidence and was associated with increased mortality even at stage 1. Inpatient diuretic use was linked to a higher AKI risk. One third of survivors with AKI3 exhibited newly established renal impairment already at 3-6 months.

Menopausal status, age and management among women living with HIV in the UK

BACKGROUND

There is currently little evidence exploring menopausal status, age at last menstrual period (LMP) and management of menopause among women living with HIV aged 45-60 years in England.

METHODS

Socio-demographic, lifestyle and clinical data were collected through a self-completed cross-sectional survey. Longitudinal CD4 count and viral load data were available from linkage to clinical records, if consent was provided. Women were categorised as pre-, peri- or post-menopausal. Factors associated with menopausal stage were examined using ordinal logistic regression adjusting for age. Age at LMP was estimated using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis.

RESULTS

The 847 women had a median age of 49 [interquartile range (IQR): 47-52] years. Most were of black ethnicity (81.3%), were born outside the UK (85.0%) and had completed secondary education (88.7%); 177 (20.4%), 373 (43.0%) and 297 (34.2%) were pre-, peri- or post-menopausal, respectively. After adjusting for age, associations of menopausal status with non-cohabiting relationship [adjusted odds ratio = 0.63 (95% confidence interval: 0.43-0.91)], baseline viral load ≥ 100 000 copies/mL [2.67 (1.20-5.94)] and unemployment [1.34 (0.97-1.84)] remained significant. Median (IQR) age at LMP was 54 (51-55) years in the group. In total, 27.9% (233/836) of women reported severe menopausal symptoms; 45.6% of those with somatic symptoms had heard of hormone replacement therapy and 8.7% had used it. Only 5.6% of women with urogenital symptoms had used topical oestrogen.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings highlight the importance of educating both women and their healthcare providers about menopausal symptoms and management options.

A Biopsychosocial Approach to HIV Fatigue: A Cross-Sectional and Prospective Analysis to Identify Key Modifiable Factors

This study aimed to identify the prevalence and predictors of current fatigue and fatigue at 1-year follow-up, in people with HIV. Participants were recruited from HIV outpatient clinics in London, England. We explored a range of bio-psychosocial factors associated with current fatigue severity, identifying the most salient factors in a multifactorial model. A prospective study explored the predictive value of specific psychological and behavioral factors in predicting fatigue severity at one year. Sixty-four of 131 (49%) participants met the criteria for clinically significant fatigue at baseline. Psychological and behavioral variables, but not immune-virologic markers or antiretroviral treatment, were associated with current fatigue severity. In the multifactorial model, catastrophizing and distress independently predicted current fatigue severity. Higher levels of fatigue at 1 year was predicted by baseline catastrophizing, symptom focusing, distress and sleep quality, when controlling for baseline fatigue, clinical and demographic variables. These findings suggest psychological and behavioral factors are important in the maintenance of fatigue in people with HIV and identify potential opportunities for treatment. Future interventions for fatigue in HIV should not only address anxiety, depression and distress but could be optimized by targeting psychological processes such as catastrophic thinking styles and symptom focusing.

Healthcare delivery for HIV-positive people with tuberculosis in Europe

BACKGROUND

In a 2013 survey, we reported distinct discrepancies in delivery of tuberculosis (TB) and HIV services in eastern Europe (EE) vs. western Europe (WE).

OBJECTIVES

To verify the differences in TB and HIV services in EE vs. WE.

METHODS

Twenty-three sites completed a survey in 2018 (EE, 14; WE, nine; 88% response rate). Results were compared across as well as within the two regions. When possible, results were compared with the 2013 survey.

RESULTS

Delivery of healthcare was significantly less integrated in EE: provision of TB and HIV services at one site (36% in EE vs. 89% in WE; P = 0.034), and continued TB follow-up in one location (42% vs. 100%; P = 0.007). Although access to TB diagnostics, standard TB and HIV drugs was generally good, fewer sites in EE reported unlimited access to rifabutin/multi-drug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) drugs, HIV integrase inhibitors and opioid substitution therapy (OST). Compared with 2013, routine usage of GeneXpert was more common in EE in 2018 (54% vs. 92%; P = 0.073), as was access to moxifloxacin (46% vs. 91%; P = 0.033), linezolid (31% vs. 64%; P = 0.217), and bedaquiline (0% vs. 25%; P = 0.217). Integration of TB and HIV services (46% vs. 39%; P = 1.000) and provision of OST to patients with opioid dependency (54% vs. 46%; P = 0.695) remained unchanged.

CONCLUSION

Delivery of TB and HIV healthcare, including integration of TB and HIV care and access to MDR-TB drugs, still differs between WE and EE, as well as between individual EE sites.

The association between severe menopausal symptoms and engagement with HIV care and treatment in women living with HIV

Using data from the PRIME Study, an observational study of the menopause in women living with HIV in England, we explored the association between menopausal symptoms and: (i) antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence and (ii) HIV clinic attendance. We measured menopausal symptom severity with the Menopause Rating Scale (MRS, score ≥17 indicating severe symptoms), adherence with the CPCRA Antiretroviral Medication Adherence Self-Report Form, and ascertained HIV clinic attendance via self-report. Odds ratios were obtained using logistic regression. Women who reported severe menopausal symptoms had greater odds of suboptimal ART adherence (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 2.22; 95% CI 1.13, 4.35) and suboptimal clinic attendance (AOR 1.52; 95% CI 1.01, 2.29). When psychological, somatic and urogenital domains of the MRS were analysed individually there was no association between adherence and severe symptoms (all p > 0.1), however there was an association between suboptimal HIV clinic attendance and severe somatic (AOR 1.98; 95% CI 1.24, 3.16) and psychological (AOR 1.76; 95% CI 1.17, 2.65) symptoms. Severe menopausal symptoms were significantly associated with sub-optimal ART adherence and HIV clinic attendance, however we cannot infer causality, highlighting the need for longitudinal data.

Association of HIV status with sexual function in women aged 45-60 in England: results from two national surveys

Increasing numbers of women living with HIV are reaching their midlife. We explore the association of HIV status with sexual function (SF) in women aged 45-60 using two national cross-sectional surveys: the third British National Survey of Sexual Attitudes and Lifestyles ("Natsal-3") and "PRIME", a survey of women living with HIV attending HIV clinics across England. Both studies asked the same questions about SF that take account not only sexual difficulties but also the relationship context and overall level of satisfaction, which collectively allowed an overall SF score to be derived. We undertook analyses of sexually-active women aged 45-60 from Natsal-3 (N = 1228, presumed HIV-negative given the low estimated prevalence of HIV in Britain) and PRIME (N = 386 women living with HIV). Women living with HIV were compared to Natsal-3 participants using multivariable logistic regression (adjusting for key confounders identified a priori: ethnicity, ongoing relationship status, depression and number of chronic conditions) and propensity scoring. Relative to Natsal-3 participants, women living with HIV were more likely to: have low overall SF (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 3.75 [2.15-6.56]), report ≥1 sexual problem(s) lasting ≥3 months (AOR 2.44 [1.49-4.00]), and report almost all 8 sexual problems asked about (AORs all ≥2.30). The association between HIV status and low SF remained statistically significant when using propensity scoring (AOR 2.43 [1.68-3.51]). Among women living with HIV (only), low SF was more common in those who were postmenopausal vs. Premenopausal (55.6% vs. 40.4%). This study suggests a negative association between HIV status and sexual function in women aged 45-60. We recommend routine assessment of SF in women living with HIV.

Week 48 Resistance Analyses of the Once-Daily, Single-Tablet Regimen Darunavir/Cobicistat/Emtricitabine/Tenofovir Alafenamide (D/C/F/TAF) in Adults Living with HIV-1 from the Phase III Randomized AMBER and EMERALD Trials

Darunavir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide (D/C/F/TAF) 800/150/200/10 mg is being investigated in two Phase III trials, AMBER (NCT02431247; treatment-naive adults) and EMERALD (NCT02269917; treatment-experienced, virologically suppressed adults). Week 48 AMBER and EMERALD resistance analyses are presented. Postbaseline samples for genotyping/phenotyping were analyzed from protocol-defined virologic failures (PDVFs) with viral load (VL) ≥400 copies/mL at failure/later time points. Post hoc analyses were deep sequencing in AMBER, and HIV-1 proviral DNA from baseline samples (VL <50 copies/mL) in EMERALD. Through week 48 across both studies, no darunavir, primary PI, or tenofovir resistance-associated mutations (RAMs) were observed in HIV-1 viruses of 1,125 participants receiving D/C/F/TAF or 629 receiving boosted darunavir plus emtricitabine/tenofovir-disoproxil-fumarate. In AMBER, the nucleos(t)ide analog reverse transcriptase inhibitor (N(t)RTI) RAM M184I/V was identified in HIV-1 of one participant during D/C/F/TAF treatment. M184V was detected pretreatment as a minority variant (9%). In EMERALD, in participants with prior VF and genoarchive data (N = 140; 98 D/C/F/TAF and 42 control), 4% had viruses with darunavir RAMs, 38% with emtricitabine RAMs, mainly at position 184 (41% not fully susceptible to emtricitabine), 4% with tenofovir RAMs, and 21% ≥ 3 thymidine analog-associated mutations (24% not fully susceptible to tenofovir) detected at screening. All achieved VL <50 copies/mL at week 48 or prior discontinuation. D/C/F/TAF has a high genetic barrier to resistance; no darunavir, primary PI, or tenofovir RAMs were observed through 48 weeks in AMBER and EMERALD. Only one postbaseline M184I/V RAM was observed in HIV-1 of an AMBER participant. In EMERALD, baseline archived RAMs to darunavir, emtricitabine, and tenofovir in participants with prior VF did not preclude virologic response.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Cerebral Small Vessel Disease in Men Living with HIV and HIV-Negative Men Aged 50 and Above

We assessed whether HIV status was associated with white matter hyperintensities (WMH), a neuroimaging correlate of cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD), in men aged ≥50 years. A cross-sectional substudy was nested within a larger cohort study. Virologically suppressed men living with HIV (MLWH) and demographically matched HIV-negative men aged ≥50 underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at 3 Tesla. Sequences included volumetric three-dimensional (3D) T1-weighted, fluid-attenuated inversion recovery and pseudocontinuous arterial spin labeling. Regional segmentation by automated image processing algorithms was used to extract WMH volume (WMHV) and resting cerebral blood flow (CBF). The association between HIV status and WMHV as a proportion of intracranial volume (ICV; log-transformed) was estimated using a multivariable linear regression model. Thirty-eight MLWH [median age 59 years (interquartile range, IQR 55-64)] and 37 HIV-negative [median 58 years (54-63)] men were analyzed. MLWH had median CD4⁺ count 570 (470-700) cells/μL and a median time since diagnosis of 20 (14-24) years. Framingham 10-year risk of cardiovascular disease was 6.5% in MLWH and 7.4% in controls. Two (5%) MLWH reported a history of stroke or transient ischemic attack and five (13%) reported coronary heart disease compared with none of the controls. The total WMHV in MLWH was 1,696 μL (IQR 1,229-3,268 μL) or 0.10% of ICV compared with 1,627 μL (IQR 1,032-3,077 μL), also 0.10% of ICV in the HIV-negative group (p = .43). In the multivariable model, WMHV/ICV was not associated with HIV status (p = .86). There was an age-dependent decline in cortical CBF [-3.9 mL/100 mL/min per decade of life (95% confidence interval 1.1-6.7 mL)] but no association between CBF and HIV status (p > .2 in all brain regions analyzed). In conclusion, we found no quantitative MRI evidence of an increased burden of CSVD in MLWH aged 50 years and older.

1768. Efficacy and Safety of Switching From Boosted-Protease Inhibitors (bPI) Plus Emtricitabine/Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate (F/TDF) Regimens to the Once Daily (QD), Single-Tablet Regimen (STR) of Darunavir/Cobicistat/Emtricitabine/Tenofovir Alafenamide (D/C/F/TAF) in Virologically Suppressed, HIV-1-Infected Adults: Week 96 Results of the Phase 3, Randomized, Non-Inferiority EMERALD Trial

Background

The QD STR D/C/F/TAF 800/150/200/10 mg was noninferior to bPI + F/TDF at 48 weeks in EMERALD. Efficacy and safety of D/C/F/TAF through week 96 are presented.

Methods

EMERALD (NCT02269917) is a randomized, active-controlled, open-label, international, multicenter noninferiority trial. Virologically suppressed (VL<50 c/mL for ≥2 months) ART experienced (previous non-DRV VF allowed) HIV-1-infected adults were randomized (2:1) to switch to D/C/F/TAF or continue bPI + F/TDF over 48 weeks. Patients could then continue on D/C/F/TAF or switch from bPI + F/TDF to D/C/F/TAF at week 52 (Late switch, 44 weeks D/C/F/TAF exposure) in a single-arm extension phase until week 96. The percentage of patients with virologic rebound (confirmed VL ≥50 c/mL) cumulative through week 48 and week 96 were primary and secondary endpoints, respectively.

Results

Of 1141 randomized and treated patients (58% had received ≥5 previous ARVs including screening ARVs; 15% had previous non-DRV VF), 1,080 continued in the extension phase (N = 728 D/C/F/TAF; N = 352 late switch). Few patients had virologic rebound cumulative through week 96 in the D/C/F/TAF arm (3.1%, 24/763). Virologic rebound occurred in 2.3% (8/352) in the late switch arm over 44 weeks D/C/F/TAF treatment. Many rebounders (14/24 and 2/8) resuppressed by week 96. At week 96 a high percentage of patients in the D/C/F/TAF arm (90.7%, 692/763) were suppressed (VL<50 c/mL). In the late switch arm, 93.8% (330/352) maintained virologic suppression after 44 weeks of treatment. No DRV, primary PI, TFV, or FTC RAMs were seen post baseline. Few serious AEs and AE related discontinuations occurred in either arm (Table 1). Improvements in renal and bone parameters were maintained in the D/C/F/TAF arm and seen in the late switch arm (week 52–96), with a small change in TC/HDL-C ratio (Table 1).

Conclusion

Switching to D/C/F/TAF maintained high virologic suppression rates (>90%) at week 96 with no resistance development, and was well tolerated over 96 weeks with bone, renal, and lipid safety consistent with known TAF and cobicistat profiles. Efficacy and safety results in the late switch arm were consistent with week 48 results in the D/C/F/TAF arm. D/C/F/TAF combines the efficacy and high genetic barrier to resistance of DRV with the safety benefits of TAF, even in patients with a history of non-DRV VF.

Disclosures

J. Eron Jr., Gilead: Consultant and Grant Investigator, Consulting fee and Research grant. Janssen: Consultant, Consulting fee and Research grant. C. Orkin, AbbVie, Abbott, Boehringer Ingelheim, BMS, Gilead, GSK, Janssen, ViiV: Grant Investigator and Research Contractor, Research grant and Research support. D. Cunningham, Janssen: Investigator, Research grant. Gilead: Investigator, Research grant. F. Pulido, Janssen: Consultant, Investigator and Scientific Advisor, Consulting fee, Research support and Speaker honorarium. F. Post, Gilead: Consultant and Grant Investigator, Consulting fee and Grant recipient. Viiv: Grant Investigator, Grant recipient. Janssen: Consultant, Consulting fee. MSD: Consultant, Consulting fee. S. De Wit, Janssen: Investigator, Research grant. E. Lathouwers, Janssen: Employee and Shareholder, Salary. V. Hufkens, Janssen: Employee and Shareholder, Salary. R. Petrovic, Janssen R&D: Independent Contractor, Consulting fee. E. Van Landuyt, Janssen: Employee and Shareholder, Salary.

Polymorphisms of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate transporters and risk of kidney tubular dysfunction in HIV-positive patients: genetics of tenofovir transporters

The association between single nucleotide polymorphisms of genes encoding transport proteins involved in the bio-disposition of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) and kidney tubular dysfunction (KTD) in HIV-positive patients was examined in this study. Fifty-eight patients who received TDF were screened for KTD using retinol-binding protein (RBP) concentration in urine. We defined KTD as the top quartile of urinary RBP/creatinine ratio (>17 μg/mmol), regardless of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) or proteinuria. Genotyping of genes encoding transport proteins involved in the disposition of TDF was undertaken using validated Taqman 5' nuclease assays. Patients with KTD (N = 15) had higher current CD4 cell counts, lower eGFR and were less likely to possess the genotype CC at position 24 of the ABBC2 (MRP2, rs717620) gene. In multivariate analysis, genotype CC at position 24 of the ABBC2 gene was significantly associated with KTD (odds ratio =0.05, 95% confidence interval = 0.003-0.7, P = 0.027). Genotype CC at position 24 of the ABBC2 (MRP2 rs717620) gene was significantly associated with a reduced risk of elevated urinary RBP in HIV-positive patients exposed to TDF.

Short Communication: The Impact of Switching from Atripla to Darunavir/Ritonavir Monotherapy on Neurocognition, Quality of Life, and Sleep: Results from a Randomized Controlled Study

We investigated whether a treatment switch from Atripla^® (tenofovir, emtricitabine, and efavirenz) to DRV/r monotherapy may improve neuropsychological performance, health-related quality of life, and sleep function. Virologically suppressed subjects and asymptomatic on Atripla for ≥6 months were randomized 1:1 to continue Atripla or switch to boosted darunavir (DRV/r) 800/100 mg once daily for 48 weeks. Neurocognitive tests, the International HIV Dementia Scale (IHDS), Medical Outcomes Study HIV Health Survey (MOS-HIV), EQ-5D-3L, and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) were completed at baseline and at week 48. Sleep function was evaluated at week 48. Twenty-six patients on DRV/r and 31 on Atripla completed the 48-week study. No significant difference in the change in scores from week 0 to week 48 between the two arms was observed in neurocognitive outcomes, IHDS, health outcomes (EQ-5D-3L and QOL), and HADS score. By contrast, the HADS score and sleep quality were both significantly better in the DRV/r arm. In conclusion, switching to DRV/r monotherapy did not affect neurocognitive function or quality of life but improved anxiety, and sleep quality was significantly better than in continued Atripla.

CSF/plasma HIV-1 RNA discordance even at low levels is associated with up-regulation of host inflammatory mediators in CSF

•

Discordant HIV in CSF is associated with raised inflammatory mediators in CSF.

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CSF mediators are raised with discordance both at high and low levels.

•

Discordance on ultrasensitive testing can also be also associated with raised mediators.

Introduction

HIV-1 RNA can be found at higher levels in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) than in plasma, termed CSF/plasma discordance. The clinical significance of CSF/plasma discordance is not known and the degree of discordance considered important varies. We aimed to determine whether a panel of CSF cytokines, chemokines and associated mediators were raised in patients with CSF/plasma discordance at different levels.

Methods

A nested case-control study of 40 CSF samples from the PARTITION study. We used a cytometric bead array to measure CSF mediator concentrations in 19 discordant and 21 non-discordant samples matched for plasma HIV-1 RNA. Discordant samples were subdivided into ‘high discordance’ (>1log₁₀) and ‘low discordance’ (0.5–1log₁₀, or ultrasensitive discordance). CSF mediators significant in univariate analysis went forward to two-way unsupervised hierarchical clustering based on the patterns of relative mediator concentrations.

Results

In univariate analysis 19 of 21 CSF mediators were significantly higher in discordant than non-discordant samples. There were no significant differences between samples with high versus low discordance. The samples grouped into two clusters which corresponded to CSF/plasma discordance (p < 0.0001). In cluster one all mediators had relatively high abundance; this included 18 discordant samples and three non-discordant samples. In cluster two all mediators had relatively low abundance; this included 18 non-discordant samples and one non-discordant sample with ultrasensitive discordance only.

Conclusions

CSF/plasma discordance is associated with potentially damaging neuroinflammatory process. Patients with discordance at lower levels (ie. 0.5–1log₁₀) should also be investigated as mediator profiles were similar to those with discordance >1log₁₀. Sensitive testing may have a role to determine whether ultrasensitive discordance is present in those with low level CSF escape.

Late presentation for HIV care across Europe: update from the Collaboration of Observational HIV Epidemiological Research Europe (COHERE) study, 2010 to 2013

Late presentation (LP) for HIV care across Europe remains a significant issue. We provide a cross-European update from 34 countries on the prevalence and risk factors of LP for 2010-2013. People aged ≥ 16 presenting for HIV care (earliest of HIV-diagnosis, first clinic visit or cohort enrollment) after 1 January 2010 with available CD4 count within six months of presentation were included. LP was defined as presentation with a CD4 count < 350/mm(3) or an AIDS defining event (at any CD4), in the six months following HIV diagnosis. Logistic regression investigated changes in LP over time. A total of 30,454 people were included. The median CD4 count at presentation was 368/mm(3) (interquartile range (IQR) 193-555/mm(3)), with no change over time (p = 0.70). In 2010, 4,775/10,766 (47.5%) were LP whereas in 2013, 1,642/3,375 (48.7%) were LP (p = 0.63). LP was most common in central Europe (4,791/9,625, 49.8%), followed by northern (5,704/11,692; 48.8%), southern (3,550/7,760; 45.8%) and eastern Europe (541/1,377; 38.3%; p < 0.0001). There was a significant increase in LP in male and female people who inject drugs (PWID) (adjusted odds ratio (aOR)/year later 1.16; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.02-1.32), and a significant decline in LP in northern Europe (aOR/year later 0.89; 95% CI: 0.85-0.94). Further improvements in effective HIV testing strategies, with a focus on vulnerable groups, are required across the European continent.

Cerebrospinal fluid viral escape and acute encephalitis in a patient on boosted protease inhibitor monotherapy

Although currently available data suffice to support the use of protease inhibitor monotherapy in selected patients, there is concern about the antiviral activity of this regimen in the long term and in viral sanctuaries, such as the central nervous system. We report a case of encephalitis related to viral escape while receiving darunavir/ritonavir monotherapy in a carefully selected patient for participation in a clinical trial.

Tenofovir alafenamide versus tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, coformulated with elvitegravir, cobicistat, and emtricitabine, for initial treatment of HIV-1 infection: two randomised, double-blind, phase 3, non-inferiority trials

BACKGROUND

Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate can cause renal and bone toxic effects related to high plasma tenofovir concentrations. Tenofovir alafenamide is a novel tenofovir prodrug with a 90% reduction in plasma tenofovir concentrations. Tenofovir alafenamide-containing regimens can have improved renal and bone safety compared with tenofovir disoproxil fumarate-containing regimens.

METHODS

In these two controlled, double-blind phase 3 studies, we recruited treatment-naive HIV-infected patients with an estimated creatinine clearance of 50 mL per min or higher from 178 outpatient centres in 16 countries. Patients were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive once-daily oral tablets containing 150 mg elvitegravir, 150 mg cobicistat, 200 mg emtricitabine, and 10 mg tenofovir alafenamide (E/C/F/tenofovir alafenamide) or 300 mg tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (E/C/F/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate) with matching placebo. Randomisation was done by a computer-generated allocation sequence (block size 4) and was stratified by HIV-1 RNA, CD4 count, and region (USA or ex-USA). Investigators, patients, study staff, and those assessing outcomes were masked to treatment group. All participants who received one dose of study drug were included in the primary intention-to-treat efficacy and safety analyses. The main outcomes were the proportion of patients with plasma HIV-1 RNA less than 50 copies per mL at week 48 as defined by the the US Food and Drug Adminstration (FDA) snapshot algorithm (pre-specified non-inferiority margin of 12%) and pre-specified renal and bone endpoints at 48 weeks. These studies are registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, numbers NCT01780506 and NCT01797445.

FINDINGS

We recruited patients from Jan 22, 2013, to Nov 4, 2013 (2175 screened and 1744 randomly assigned), and gave treatment to 1733 patients (866 given E/C/F/tenofovir alafenamide and 867 given E/C/F/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate). E/C/F/tenofovir alafenamide was non-inferior to E/C/F/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, with 800 (92%) of 866 patients in the tenofovir alafenamide group and 784 (90%) of 867 patients in the tenofovir disoproxil fumarate group having plasma HIV-1 RNA less than 50 copies per mL (adjusted difference 2·0%, 95% CI -0·7 to 4·7). Patients given E/C/F/tenofovir alafenamide had significantly smaller mean serum creatinine increases than those given E/C/F/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (0·08 vs 0·12 mg/dL; p<0·0001), significantly less proteinuria (median % change -3 vs 20; p<0·0001), and a significantly smaller decrease in bone mineral density at spine (mean % change -1·30 vs -2·86; p<0·0001) and hip (-0·66 vs -2·95; p<0·0001) at 48 weeks.

INTERPRETATION

Through 48 weeks, more than 90% of patients given E/C/F/tenofovir alafenamide or E/C/F/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate had virological success. Renal and bone effects were significantly reduced in patients given E/C/F/tenofovir alafenamide. Although these studies do not have the power to assess clinical safety events such as renal failure and fractures, our data suggest that E/C/F/tenofovir alafenamide will have a favourable long-term renal and bone safety profile.

FUNDING

Gilead Sciences.

Impact on life expectancy of HIV-1 positive individuals of CD4+ cell count and viral load response to antiretroviral therapy

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study is to estimate life expectancies of HIV-positive patients conditional on response to antiretroviral therapy (ART).

METHODS

Patients aged more than 20 years who started ART during 2000-2010 (excluding IDU) in HIV clinics contributing to the UK CHIC Study were followed for mortality until 2012. We determined the latest CD4 cell count and viral load before ART and in each of years 1-5 of ART. For each duration of ART, life tables based on estimated mortality rates by sex, age, latest CD4 cell count and viral suppression (HIV-1 RNA <400 copies/ml), were used to estimate expected age at death for ages 20-85 years.

RESULTS

Of 21 388 patients who started ART, 961 (4.5%) died during 110 697 person-years. At start of ART, expected age at death [95% confidence interval (CI)] of 35-year-old men with CD4 cell count less than 200, 200-349, at least 350 cells/μl was 71 (68-73), 78 (74-82) and 77 (72-81) years, respectively, compared with 78 years for men in the general UK population. Thirty-five-year-old men who increased their CD4 cell count in the first year of ART from less than 200 to 200-349 or at least 350 cells/μl and achieved viral suppression gained 7 and 10 years, respectively. After 5 years on ART, expected age at death of 35-year-old men varied from 54 (48-61) (CD4 cell count <200 cells/μl and no viral suppression) to 80 (76-83) years (CD4 cell count ≥350 cells/μl and viral suppression).

CONCLUSION

Successfully treated HIV-positive individuals have a normal life expectancy. Patients who started ART with a low CD4 cell count significantly improve their life expectancy if they have a good CD4 cell count response and undetectable viral load.

[Diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome]

The acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is one of the most frequent differential diagnoses in emergency medicine. The causal mechanism of the ACS most often is an atherosclerotic plaque rupture. The differential diagnosis of ACS is guided by the clinical symptom of chest discomfort. The diagnosis is based on the electrocardiographic, biomarker and imaging findings before targeted therapy can be initiated. Over the last years we have witnessed breakthroughs in imaging techniques and the application of biomarkers such as highly sensitive or ultrasensitive cardiac troponin assays. They permit an early and sensitive diagnosis of ACS. Furthermore, they exhibit a high negative predictive value for a safe rule-out. Trained personnel and optimized structures in chest pain units constitute optimal conditions for a guideline conform therapy of patients with ACS. The number of certified chest pain units in Germany has constantly been increasing.

Role of HIV infection duration and CD4 cell level at initiation of combination anti-retroviral therapy on risk of failure

BACKGROUND

The development of HIV drug resistance and subsequent virological failure are often cited as potential disadvantages of early cART initiation. However, their long-term probability is not known, and neither is the role of duration of infection at the time of initiation.

METHODS

Patients enrolled in the UK Register of HIV seroconverters were followed-up from cART initiation to last HIV-RNA measurement. Through survival analysis we examined predictors of virologic failure (2HIV-RNA ≥400 c/l while on cART) including CD4 count and HIV duration at initiation. We also estimated the cumulative probabilities of failure and drug resistance (from the available HIV nucleotide sequences) for early initiators (cART within 12 months of seroconversion).

RESULTS

Of 1075 starting cART at a median (IQR) CD4 count 272 (190,370) cells/mm(3) and HIV duration 3 (1,6) years, virological failure occurred in 163 (15%). Higher CD4 count at initiation, but not HIV infection duration at cART initiation, was independently associated with lower risk of failure (p=0.033 and 0.592 respectively). Among 230 patients initiating cART early, 97 (42%) discontinued it after a median of 7 months; cumulative probabilities of resistance and failure by 8 years were 7% (95% CI 4,11) and 19% (13,25), respectively.

CONCLUSION

Although the rate of discontinuation of early cART in our cohort was high, the long-term rate of virological failure was low. Our data do not support early cART initiation being associated with increased risk of failure and drug resistance.

Effects of age on antiretroviral plasma drug concentration in HIV-infected subjects undergoing routine therapeutic drug monitoring

OBJECTIVES

The pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic effects of antiretroviral therapy may differ in older compared with younger subjects with HIV infection. We aimed to assess factors associated with plasma antiretroviral drug exposure, including age, within a large HIV-infected cohort undergoing therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM).

METHODS

Data from the Liverpool TDM Registry were linked with the UK Collaborative HIV Cohort (CHIC) Study. All TDM of protease inhibitors (PIs) and non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs) was included and in order to account for different antiretroviral drugs the plasma concentrations were standardized by group measurements according to drug, dosing and timing of TDM. Regression modelling was used to evaluate associations of drug exposure with age and clinical parameters, including hepatic transaminase results and time to antiretroviral treatment modification.

RESULTS

Data from 3589 TDM samples were available from 2447 subjects. The greatest numbers of plasma concentrations were assessed for lopinavir (22.4%), efavirenz (18.5%), atazanavir (17.0%) and saquinavir (11.6%). As age increased, median standardized NNRTI concentrations remained constant, whereas PI concentrations increased (correlation coefficient 0.04, P = 0.033). In a regression analysis stratified by antiretroviral drug class, standardized plasma concentrations were significantly associated with age for PIs (0.05 increase in standard deviation of drug concentration with each 10 year increase in age, P = 0.044), but not for NNRTIs or other clinical parameters, including hepatic transaminase results or time to antiretroviral treatment modification.

CONCLUSIONS

With increasing age, statistically significant rises in plasma PI exposure, but not NNRTI exposure, were observed. The clinical relevance of this observation merits further investigation.

British HIV Association guidelines for the treatment of HIV-1-positive adults with antiretroviral therapy 2012

The overall purpose of these guidelines is to provide guidance on best clinical practice in the treatment and management of adults with HIV infection with antiretroviral therapy (ART). The scope includes: (i) guidance on the initiation of ART in those previously naïve to therapy; (ii)support of patients on treatment; (iii) management of patients experiencing virological failure; and (iv) recommendations in specific patient populations where other factors need to be taken into consideration. The guidelines are aimed at clinical professionals directly involved with and responsible for the care of adults with HIV infection and at community advocates responsible for promoting the best interests and care of HIV-positive adults. They should be read in conjunction with other published BHIVA guidelines.

Does discordancy between the CD4 count and CD4 percentage in HIV-positive individuals influence outcomes on highly active antiretroviral therapy?

INTRODUCTION

The CD4 count and CD4 percentage (CD4%) are both strong predictors of clinical disease progression in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Although individuals may show discordancy between their CD4 count and CD4%, the clinical relevance of this is unclear.

METHODS

Discordancy was defined where the CD4% was ≤10th percentile for a selected CD4 count range (referred to as low discordancy), within the central 80% range (concordant), or ≥90th percentile (high discordancy). Regression methods identified factors associated with low and high discordancy in untreated individuals and assessed the impact of discordancy on treatment responses to highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART).

RESULTS

High discordancy was associated with female sex, low viral load, and white ethnicity; low discordancy was associated with black or nonwhite ethnicity, older age, and injection drug use. Clinical event rates were higher in individuals with high discordancy starting HAART, but there was no association with subsequent HIV progression by 6 months after starting HAART. CD4 count increases remained lower, by 20 cells/mm(3), in individuals with low discordancy, and higher, by 27 cells/mm(3), in those with high discordancy.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall discrepancies between the CD4/CD4% are small, confirming the use of absolute CD4 counts as a monitoring tool.

Outcomes in the first year after initiation of first-line HAART among heterosexual men and women in the UK CHIC Study

BACKGROUND

We analysed the influence of gender on use and outcomes of first-line HAART in a UK cohort.

METHODS

Analyses included heterosexuals starting HAART from 1998-2007 with pre-treatment CD4(+) T-cell count<350 cells/mm(3) and viral load (VL)>500 copies/ml. Virological suppression (<50 copies/ml), virological rebound (>500 copies/ml), CD4(+) T-cell counts at 6 and 12 months, clinical events and treatment discontinuation/switch in the first year of HAART were compared using linear, logistic and Cox regression.

RESULTS

Compared with women (n=2,179), men (n=1,487) were older and had lower CD4(+) T-cell count and higher VL at start of HAART. Median follow-up was 3.8 years (IQR 2.0-6.2). At 6 and 12 months, 72.7% and 75.3% had VL≤50 copies/ml, with no large differences between genders at either time after adjustment for confounders (6 months, OR 0.92 [95% CI 0.76-1.13]; 12 months, OR 1.06 [95% CI 0.85-1.31]). Overall, 79.4% patients achieved virological suppression and 19.2% experienced virological rebound, without gender differences, although men had an increased risk of rebound after excluding pregnant women (adjusted relative hazard [RH] 1.33 [95% CI 1.04-1.71]). Mean CD4(+) T-cell count increases at 6 and 12 months were, respectively, 112 and 156 cells/mm(3) overall, with mean differences between men and women of -14.6 cells/mm(3) (95% CI -24.6--4.5) and -12.1 cells/mm(3) (95% CI -24.4-0.2) at 6 and 12 months, respectively. Clinical progression was similar in men and women, but men were less likely to experience treatment discontinuation/switch (adjusted RH 0.72 [95% CI 0.63-0.83]).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite higher discontinuation rates among women, men had an increased risk of virological rebound and slightly poorer CD4(+) T-cell count responses. Identifying the reasons underlying treatment discontinuation/switch may help optimize treatment strategies for both genders.

Non-uptake of highly active antiretroviral therapy among patients with a CD4 count < 350 cells/μL in the UK

OBJECTIVES

Current British HIV Association (BHIVA) guidelines recommend that all patients with a CD4 count <350 cells/μL are offered highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). We identified risk factors for delayed initiation of HAART following a CD4 count <350 cells/μL.

METHODS

All adults under follow-up in 2008 who had a first confirmed CD4 count <350 cells/μL from 2004 to 2008, who had not initiated treatment and who had >6 months of follow-up were included in the study. Characteristics at the time of the low CD4 cell count and over follow-up were compared to identify factors associated with delayed HAART uptake. Analyses used proportional hazards regression with fixed (sex/risk group, age, ethnicity, AIDS, baseline CD4 cell count and calendar year) and time-updated (frequency of CD4 cell count measurement, proportion of CD4 counts <350 cells/μL, latest CD4 cell count, CD4 percentage and viral load) covariates.

RESULTS

Of 4871 patients with a confirmed low CD4 cell count, 436 (8.9%) remained untreated. In multivariable analyses, those starting HAART were older [adjusted relative hazard (aRH)/10  years 1.15], were more likely to be female heterosexual (aRH 1.13), were more likely to have had AIDS (aRH 1.14), had a greater number of CD4 measurements < 350 cells/μL (aRH/additional count 1.18), had a lower CD4 count over follow-up (aRH/50 cells/μL higher 0.57), had a lower CD4 percentage (aRH/5% higher 0.90) and had a higher viral load (aRH/log(10) HIV-1 RNA copies/ml higher 1.06). Injecting drug users (aRH 0.53), women infected with HIV via nonsexual or injecting drug use routes (aRH 0.75) and those of unknown ethnicity (aRH 0.69) were less likely to commence HAART.

CONCLUSION

A substantial minority of patients with a CD4 count < 350 cells/μL remain untreated despite its indication.

Impact of late diagnosis and treatment on life expectancy in people with HIV-1: UK Collaborative HIV Cohort (UK CHIC) Study

OBJECTIVES

To estimate life expectancy for people with HIV undergoing treatment compared with life expectancy in the general population and to assess the impact on life expectancy of late treatment, defined as CD4 count <200 cells/mm(3) at start of antiretroviral therapy.

DESIGN

Cohort study.

SETTING

Outpatient HIV clinics throughout the United Kingdom. Population Adult patients from the UK Collaborative HIV Cohort (UK CHIC) Study with CD4 count ≤ 350 cells/mm(3) at start of antiretroviral therapy in 1996-2008.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Life expectancy at the exact age of 20 (the average additional years that will be lived by a person after age 20), according to the cross sectional age specific mortality rates during the study period.

RESULTS

1248 of 17,661 eligible patients died during 91,203 person years' follow-up. Life expectancy (standard error) at exact age 20 increased from 30.0 (1.2) to 45.8 (1.7) years from 1996-9 to 2006-8. Life expectancy was 39.5 (0.45) for male patients and 50.2 (0.45) years for female patients compared with 57.8 and 61.6 years for men and women in the general population (1996-2006). Starting antiretroviral therapy later than guidelines suggest resulted in up to 15 years' loss of life: at age 20, life expectancy was 37.9 (1.3), 41.0 (2.2), and 53.4 (1.2) years in those starting antiretroviral therapy with CD4 count <100, 100-199, and 200-350 cells/mm(3), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Life expectancy in people treated for HIV infection has increased by over 15 years during 1996-2008, but is still about 13 years less than that of the UK population. The higher life expectancy in women is magnified in those with HIV. Earlier diagnosis and subsequent timely treatment with antiretroviral therapy might increase life expectancy.

How Representative Are Research Tissue Biobanks of the Local Populations? Experience of the Infectious Diseases Biobank at King's College, London, UK

Biobanks have a primary responsibility to collect tissues that are a true reflection of their local population and thereby promote translational research, which is applicable to the community. The Infectious Diseases BioBank (IDB) at King's College London is located in the southeast of the city, an area that is ethnically diverse. Transplantation programs have frequently reported a low rate of donation among some ethnic minorities. To determine whether patients who volunteered peripheral venous blood samples to the IDB were representative of the local community, we compared local government demographic data to characteristics of patients who have donated to the IDB. There was a good match between these statistics, indicating that the IDB's volunteer population of human immunodeficiency virus patients was similar to local demographics.