Higher Baseline CD4 Count Research Articles

Immunological and virological response to fostemsavir in routine US clinical care: An OPERA cohort study.

Fostemsavir is a novel attachment inhibitor used with other antiretrovirals in heavily treatment-experienced (HTE) adults with multidrug-resistant HIV-1. Real-world immunological and virological responses were assessed in individuals starting fostemsavir in the OPERA cohort. Among adults with HIV-1 starting fostemsavir between 2 July 2020 and 1 September 2022, 6-month and 12-month changes in CD4 T-cell count and CD4%, and maintenance/achievement of viral load (VL) <50 copies/mL were described and stratified by baseline VL (suppressed: <50 copies/mL; viraemic: ≥50 copies/mL) and CD4 count (high: ≥350 cells/μL; low: <350 cells/μL). Of 182 individuals starting fostemsavir, 64% were viraemic (34% low CD4, 30% high CD4) and 36% were suppressed (16% low CD4, 20% high CD4). The suppressed/low CD4 group had the largest median increases in CD4 count (6-month: 30 cells/μL [interquartile range {IQR} 9-66], 12-month: 66 cells/μL [IQR 17-125]), and CD4% (6-month: 1.0% [IQR -0.3-2.8], 12-month: 1.9% [IQR 1.3-3.9]). Regardless of baseline VL, those with a high baseline CD4 count experienced a greater variability in immunological response than those with low CD4 counts (12-month standard deviation range 172-231 cells/μL vs. 69-90 cells/μL). VL <50 copies/mL was maintained in most suppressed individuals; nearly half of the viraemic/high CD4 group and a third of the viraemic/low CD4 group achieved a VL <50 copies/mL at either timepoint. After 6 or 12 months of fostemsavir use, virological response was low in viraemic individuals, although most suppressed individuals did maintain suppression. While immunological response varied across individuals, virologically suppressed HTE individuals with low CD4 counts may benefit from immunological improvements with fostemsavir.

Assessing index CD4 and associated outcomes at 1-year in a tertiary HIV clinic, KwaZulu-Natal.

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) management guidelines have evolved from initiating therapy at CD4 counts of ≤ 200 cells/m3to implementing universal test and treat (UTT). This study aimed to assess whether in clinical practice, patients are presenting with higher baseline CD4 counts, describe the incidence of opportunistic infections and the proportion that achieved viral suppression. A retrospective cohort design with convenience sampling was conducted. Cohort 1 included patients initiated on antiretroviral therapy (ART) between 01 January 2014 and 31 December 2014, when criteria were set at CD4 count ≤ 350 cells/mm3. Cohort 2 included patients initiated on ART between 01 January 2019 and 31 December 2019, during the UTT era. At ART initiation, the median CD4 cell was 170 cells/mm3(interquartile range [IQR]: 85.5-287) in Cohort 1 cells/mm3and 243 cells/mm3(IQR: 120-411) in Cohort 2. Tuberculosis was the predominant OI in the group with CD4 cell count ≤ 200 cells/m3in both Cohort 1 (26.8%) and Cohort 2 (27.9%),p= 0.039. At 1 year, virological suppression was achieved in only 77.7% and 84.7% of Cohorts 1 and 2 patients. A notable portion of patients at King Edward VIII Hospital's HIV clinic commenced ART with CD4 counts significantly below the recommended guideline thresholds.Contribution:The research revealed a delay in initiating ART. A comprehensive reevaluation is essential to pinpoint the factors contributing to this delay and to devise customised interventions.

Investigating the Relationship between Medication Adherence Behaviors and the Achievement of Sustained Viral Load Suppression among People Living with HIV (PLHIV) on Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) in Akwa Ibom State, from 2018 - 2022

Background: Nigeria is still endemic for Human Immuno-Deficiency Virus (HIV), and currently among the top five countries with the highest burdens of HIV infection. For a successful HIV program, there should be good access to antiretroviral therapy (ART) and record of viral load suppression (VLS). This study aimed at investigating the relationship between medication adherence behavior (MAB) and sustained VLS among people living with HIV (PLHIV) receiving ART in Akwa Ibom State. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study of the medical records of 1,763 PLHIV receiving ART services from January 2018 to December 2022, in selected ten health facilities in Akwa Ibom State. Relevant demographic, clinical, immunological, viral load (VL) information were obtained from the patients’ medical records and databases. The proportion of VLS and associated variables were then analyzed. Results: Out of the 2,550 PLHIV whose medical records were accessed, data for 1,763 PLHIV was accepted for analysis. A total of 795 (45.1%) male and 968 (54.9%) female participated in the study, with a mean age of 38.4 ± 5 years. While 23.8% (n = 420) have unsuppressed VL of &gt;1,000 copies/mL; 76.2% (n = 1,343) of participants achieved VLS of &lt;1,000 copies/mL. 90.4% (n = 1,213) of the virally suppressed participants recorded moderate to high medication adherence levels (X2 = 94.977, df = 2, p-value = 2.2 x 10-16). CD4 counts and HAART regimen have significant impact on VLS (p &lt; 0.05), while pregnancy status, TB Infection, duration on HAART, and WHO disease stage do not have significant effects on VLS (p &gt; 0.05). Conclusion: There was a strong evidence to reject the null hypothesis, which states that there is no positive association between MAB and sustained VLS among PLHIV on ART (p &lt; 0.05). The VLS rate in this study indicates a good HIV epidemic control. Good medication adherence level, high baseline CD4 count, and being on first line HAART regimen were strongly associated with VLS.

Risk Factors for Incident Hypertension Within 1 Year of Initiating Antiretroviral Therapy Among People with HIV.

Hypertension (HTN) is a common comorbidity among people with HIV and associated with an increased risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and chronic kidney disease. The relationship of antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation to incident HTN remains a clinical question. We determined HTN incidence at 48 weeks of follow-up among ART-naive participants without HTN and not taking antihypertensive medications at ART initiation through randomized clinical trials through the AIDS Clinical Trial Group between 1999 and 2011. We assessed the association of baseline characteristics, including randomized ART agents with HTN incidence at 48 weeks using Poisson regression models. Incident HTN was defined as blood pressure ≥130/80 mmHg, or use of antihypertensive medication. Among 2,614 participants, mean age was 37 ± 10 years, 79% male sex, and 36% African American race. After 48 weeks, 839 participants (32%) developed HTN. Receiving a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) was associated with an increased relative risk (RR) of incident HTN, while the risk was lower for protease inhibitor use. Stavudine and efavirenz were associated with an increased RR of developing HTN, while tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, darunavir/ritonavir, and atazanavir/ritonavir were associated with a decreased risk of developing HTN. Additionally, older age, higher body mass index (BMI), and having hepatitis C were associated with an increased risk for developing HTN, while women and participants with a higher baseline CD4 count were at a decreased risk of developing HTN at 48 weeks. One third of these ART naive participants developed HTN after ART initiation. NNRTIs, notably efavirenz, and stavudine were associated with an increased risk of HTN. Additional factors associated with HTN included traditional factors like older age and higher BMI, and advanced HIV disease (lower CD4 count). (Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT00001137).

Gender differences among patients with drug resistant tuberculosis and HIV co-infection in Uganda: a countrywide retrospective cohort study

BackgroundGender differences among patients with drug resistant tuberculosis (DRTB) and HIV co-infection could affect treatment outcomes. We compared characteristics and treatment outcomes of DRTB/HIV co-infected men and women in Uganda.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective chart review of patients with DRTB from 16 treatment sites in Uganda. Eligible patients were aged ≥ 18 years, had confirmed DRTB, HIV co-infection and a treatment outcome registered between 2013 and 2019. We compared socio-demographic and clinical characteristics and tuberculosis treatment outcomes between men and women. Potential predictors of mortality were determined by cox proportional hazard regression analysis that controlled for gender. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.ResultsOf 666 DRTB/HIV co-infected patients, 401 (60.2%) were men. The median (IQR) age of men and women was 37.0 (13.0) and 34.0 (13.0) years respectively (p < 0.001). Men were significantly more likely to be on tenofovir-based antiretroviral therapy (ART), high-dose isoniazid-containing DRTB regimen and to have history of cigarette or alcohol use. They were also more likely to have multi-drug resistant TB, isoniazid and streptomycin resistance and had higher creatinine, aspartate and gamma-glutamyl aminotransferase and total bilirubin levels. Conversely, women were more likely to be unemployed, unmarried, receive treatment from the national referral hospital and to have anemia, a capreomycin-containing DRTB regimen and zidovudine-based ART. Treatment success was observed among 437 (65.6%) and did not differ between the genders. However, mortality was higher among men than women (25.7% vs. 18.5%, p = 0.030) and men had a shorter mean (standard error) survival time (16.8 (0.42) vs. 19.0 (0.46) months), Log Rank test (p = 0.046). Predictors of mortality, after adjusting for gender, were cigarette smoking (aHR = 4.87, 95% CI 1.28–18.58, p = 0.020), an increase in alanine aminotransferase levels (aHR = 1.05, 95% CI 1.02–1.07, p < 0.001), and history of ART default (aHR = 3.86, 95% CI 1.31–11.37, p = 0.014) while a higher baseline CD4 count was associated with lower mortality (aHR = 0.94, 95% CI 0.89–0.99, p = 0.013 for every 10 cells/mm3 increment).ConclusionMortality was higher among men than women with DRTB/HIV co-infection which could be explained by several sociodemographic and clinical differences.

Viral suppression among HIV-positive patients on antiretroviral therapy in northwestern Nigeria: an eleven-year review of tertiary care centre records, January 2009\u2013December 2019

BackgroundHuman Immuno-Deficiency Virus (HIV) remains one of the world’s significant public health challenges. Viral suppression is the key indicator for treatment success in People living with HIV (PLHIV). We determined the level of viral suppression, and its associated factors among PLHIV attending Federal Medical Centre Katsina (FMC Katsina), Nigeria.MethodsThis retrospective descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 913 HIV positive adults enrolled in care between January 2009 and December 2019. Information on socio-demographics, clinical, immunological, Viral load (VL), and other relevant parameters were extracted from the patients’ care records. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients that achieved viral suppression. We also analyzed variables that were associated with VL suppression.ResultsOf 913, records of 831 (91.0%) registered patients were analyzed. During the period, 751 (90.4%) achieved viral suppression, 427 (51.4%) had CD4 counts ≥ 500 and 477 (57.4%) were on HAART for ≥ 5 years. Majority, 793 (95.4%) were on first-line HAART regimen (Tenofovir-Lamivudine-Dolutegravir or Abacavir-Lamivudine-Dolutegravir), and 809 (97.4%) in the non-advanced stage (WHO stages 1 and 2). The median (interquartile range) of viral load was 20 (20–40) vs 19,989 (3311–110,340) cp/ml in virally suppressed, and unsuppressed respectively. Factors associated with viral suppression included being unemployed (Adjusted OR [AOR] 4.9, 95% CI 2.771, 8.539), educated (AOR 4.2, 95% CI 1.098, 16.223), having a baseline CD4 count ≥ 500 cells/µl (AOR 2.7, 95% CI 1.588, 4.625), and being on first line HAART regimen [AOR 7.0, 95% CI 3.220, 15.648].ConclusionsOur study demonstrated a good viral suppression among PLHIV on HAART. Variables associated with viral suppression included unemployment, formal education, high baseline CD4 count, and first line HAART regimen.

Integrase Strand Transfer Inhibitors Play the Main Role in Greater Weight Gain Among Men With Acute and Early HIV Infection.

BackgroundThe predictors of weight gain remain unclear in people with acute and early HIV infection (AEH).MethodsEligible antiretroviral-naïve men diagnosed with AEH from January 1, 2000, to December 31, 2019, were enrolled in an observational cohort study at the University California, San Diego. The study used multivariable mixed-effect linear regression models to analyze differences in the rate of weight gain over time between participants receiving early vs deferred antiretroviral therapy (ART) treatment, low vs high baseline CD4 count and HIV RNA, and different classes of ART.ResultsA total of 463 participants were identified, with mean CD4 cell count of 507 cells/μL and log HIV RNA of 5.0 copies/mL at study entry. There was no difference in the rate of weight gain between participants who did and did not receive ART within 96 weeks of incident HIV infection. Neither a baseline CD4 count of <350 cells/μL nor a baseline HIV RNA of >100 000 copies/mL was a predictor of weight gain. Compared with persons taking non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor–based regimens, those who received integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI)–based regimens showed greater weight gain over time.ConclusionsNeither baseline CD4 count and HIV RNA nor early ART was associated with weight change in the first 96 weeks following incident HIV infection. Use of INSTI-based regimens represented a major driver of weight gain in men who initiated ART with relatively higher CD4 cell counts.

CD4 testing after initiation of antiretroviral therapy: Analysis of routine data from the South African HIV programme.

BackgroundPeople living with HIV (PLHIV) who have low CD4 counts require advanced clinical care (ACC) to minimise morbidity and mortality risk. These patients include immunological non-responders (INRs) with low CD4 counts despite a suppressed viral load.ObjectivesTo determine the proportion of patients with low CD4 counts after antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation and to describe INRs within that group.MethodsRoutine Three Interlinked Electronic Registers.Net (TIER.Net) data from four South African districts were analysed for adult PLHIV on ART > 12 months. Immunological non-responders were defined as patients on ART > 4 years who were virally suppressed (viral load < 1000 copies/mL) with a CD4 count ≤ 350 cell/mm3.ResultsBaseline CD4 was recorded for 80.9% of the 869 571 patients newly initiating ART, with 37.2% of those starting ART since 2017 having baseline counts ≤ 200 cells/mm3. Amongst all 1 178 190 patients on ART, only 46.5% had a CD4 test after ART initiation and of these, 14.3% had CD4 ≤ 200 cells/mm3. This proportion was highest amongst patients on ART ≤ 2 years (19.7%) (p < 0.001). Amongst virally suppressed patients, 20.0% were INRs. Immunological non-response was significantly more likely amongst patients on second-line ART (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.79), those aged 35-45 and ≥ 45 years (aOR 1.15 and 1.50, respectively), males (aOR 2.28) and patients with confirmed TB (aOR 2.49), and was significantly less likely in cases with higher baseline CD4 count (aOR 0.35).ConclusionCD4 testing subsequent to ART initiation is poorly implemented and there is a notable proportion of patients with low CD4 counts. Guidelines regarding CD4 testing and ACC need to be more widely implemented to identify patients with low CD4 counts and improve their outcomes.

Immunovirological treatment outcomes after 2 years of antiretroviral therapy in children living with the human immune deficiency virus in Lagos Nigeria

Background/objective: The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends routine assessment of antiretroviral treatment outcomes to detect treatment failure early and prevent the development of drug resistance. The aim of this study was to describe treatment outcomes of antiretroviral therapy (ART) over 2 years in children living with the human immune deficiency virus enrolled in the paediatric HIV clinic at the Lagos UniversityTeaching Hospital (LUTH).Materials and methods: This was a retrospective study of antiretroviral treatment outcomes in 278 children receiving antiretroviral therapy at the paediatric HIV clinic of LUTH. Demographic, clinical and laboratory data were retrospectively collected from clinical records of pediatric patientswho received antiretroviral therapy for 2 years ( from November 2015 to December 2017) . Virological failure was defined as viral load &gt; 400 copies/ml and immunological failure was defined as a CD4 count &lt;100 cells/mm3 or CD4 % &lt;15% after receiving antiretroviral agents for 12 months. Data was analysed using graph pad prism version 5.0.Results: After 12 months on antiretroviral therapy (ART), 101 (36%) had virological failure while 14 (5%) and 36 (13%) failed immunologically [CD4 count &lt;100 cells/mn3 and CD4 &lt;15% respectively]. Virological blips were observed at 24 months in 6.1% of patients while immunovirological discordance occurred in 30% of patients (poor virological clearance despite good immunological recovery) . High baseline viral load (&gt;5000 copies/ml), poor adherence (&lt;95%) and low baseline CD4 counts (101-249 cells/mn3) were significantly associated with virological failure, while low baseline CD4 counts (&lt;350 cells/mn3) and poor adherence (&lt;95%) were significantly associated with immunologic failure.Conclusion: The treatment outcomes observed in this study are similar to those reported in earlier studies. At 1 and 2 years of antiretroviral therapy , there was immune restoration however 101 (36%) and 87 (31%) respectively had virological failure despite good adherence to therapy and good Immunological restoration. This calls for early initiation and switch to second and third line drugs .&#x0D; Key words: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), zidovudine, lamivudine, nevirapine, virological blips, immunovirological discordance , children, Nigeria.

\u201cUniversal test and treat\u201d program reduced TB incidence by 75% among a cohort of adults taking antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Gurage zone, South Ethiopia

BackgroundTuberculosis (TB) remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in peoples living with HIV and at least 25% of deaths are attributed to TB. Many countries implement the Universal Test and Treat (UTT) program for HIV, which is believed to reduce the incidence of TB. However, there are limited studies that evaluate the impact of UTT on TB incidence. Therefore, by recruiting a cohort of ART users in the “UTT” and “differed treatment” programs, we aim to measure the effect of the UTT program on TB incidence.ObjectiveTo measure the effect of “UTT” program on TB incidence among a cohort of adults taking antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Gurage Zone, South Ethiopia.MethodsA retrospective cohort study was conducted through record review over 5 years (2014–2019) in public health facilities in Gurage Zone. Three hundred eighty-four records were randomly selected and reviewed using a standardized structured checklist. Data was entered using Epi Info™ Version 7 and analyzed by STATA. A generalized linear model with binomial link function was fitted to measure the adjusted incidence density/incidence rate ratio and to identify predictors of incidence difference between the two programs.ResultsDuring the follow up period, 39 incident TB cases were identified with an overall incidence rate of 4.79/100 person-year (PY). TB incidence was significantly lower in the UTT cohort (IR = 2.10/100 PY) in comparison to the differed program cohort (IR = 6.23/100 PY). The adjusted incidence rate ratio (AIRR) of TB among patients enrolled in the UTT program was; 0.25 (95% CI = 0.08–0.70). Thus, there was a reduction of TB incidence by 75% in the UTT program compared to differed program. In addition, IPT (isoniazid preventive therapy) use (AIRR = 0.35 (95% CI = 0.22–0.48)), WHO Stage I and II (AIRR = 0.70 (95% CI = 0.61–0.94)) and higher base line CD4 count (AIRR = 0.96 (95% CI = .94–0.99)) significantly reduced the incidence of TB. However, treatment failure increase the incidence (AIRR = 5.8 (95% CI = 1.93–8.46)).ConclusionTB incidence was significantly reduced by 75% after UTT. Therefore, intervention to further reduce the incidence has to focus on strengthening UTT program and IPT.

AIDS-duration predictors of HIV/AIDS patients on antiretroviral therapy at Debre Berhan referral hospital, north-central Ethiopia

Background: Receiving ART treatment prolongs the life of HIV/AIDS patients by increasing substantially their CD4 count, even though the level is different from one individual patient to the other. The aim of this study was to identify the potential predictors of death of HIV-infected patients attending ART treatment. Methods: A hospital-based retrospective cohort chart review study design was conducted on 647 HIV-infected patients at a public hospital in North-Central Ethiopia from July 2012-January 2017. Kaplan-Meier plots, Log-rank and Wilcoxon tests, and Cox-proportional hazard model were employed. Data analysis was done with the help of statistical software (R version 3.2.2). 95% confidence interval for hazard ratio (HR) and p-value ≤ 0.05 was used to statistically associate with time till event occurred. Results: Among the total of 647 patients on 192(29.68%) event were occurred; while 455(70.32%) were censored. HIV-infected patients were followed for a total of 54 months, with a mean of 22.13(13.16) and a median of 21.47months. The prevalence of event was about 30 out of 100 HIV patients. According to the present study, the median CD4 count at the initial time of ART was 247 (IQR:120-375)cells/µl, whereas the median CD4 count at the time of event was 362 (IQR:225-532)cells/µl. Patients with higher baselineCD4 count,&gt;200cells/µl were 32.10% lower in risk of death than patients with lower baselineCD4 count, &lt; 200cells/µl (HR:0.679; 95%CI:0.537-0.857; p-value=0.001). Conclusions: ART treatment is effective enough in slowing down the progression of HIV-infection to AIDS and decreasing the mortality rate of patients significantly. Being Widowed/ divorced, bedridden, ambulatory began with lower baseline CD4 count and being on TDF-3TC-EFV regimen were the predictors of mortality in HIV-infected patients on ART. It is recommended that HIV patients start antiretroviral treatment early, track the progression of HIV to AIDS.

A systematic review and meta-analyses on initiation, adherence and outcomes of antiretroviral therapy in incarcerated people.

Incarcerated people are at increased risk of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection relative to the general population. Despite a high burden of infection, HIV care use among prison populations is often suboptimal and varies among settings, and little evidence exists explaining the discrepancy. Therefore, this review assessed barriers to optimal use of HIV care cascade in incarcerated people. Quantitative and qualitative studies investigating factors affecting linkage to care, ART (antiretroviral therapy) initiation, adherence and/or outcomes among inmates were systematically searched across seven databases. Studies published in English language and indexed up to 26 October 2018 were reviewed. We performed a narrative review for both quantitative and qualitative studies, and meta-analyses on selected quantitative studies. All retrieved quantitative studies were assessed for risk of bias. Meta-analyses were conducted using RevMan-5 software and pooled odds ratios were calculated using Mantel-Haenszel statistics with 95% confidence interval at a p<0.05. The review protocol has been published at the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO; Number: CRD42019135502). Of forty-two studies included in the narrative review, eight were qualitative studies. Sixteen of the quantitative studies were eligible for meta-analyses. The narrative synthesis revealed structural factors such as: a lack of access to community standard of HIV care, particularly in resource limited countries; loss of privacy; and history of incarceration and re-incarceration as risk factors for poor HIV care use in prison populations. Among social and personal characteristics, lack of social support, stigma, discrimination, substance use, having limited knowledge about, and negative perception towards ART were the main determinants of suboptimal use of care in incarcerated people. In the meta-analyses, lower odds of ART initiation was noticed among inmates with higher baseline CD4 count (CD4 ≥500celss/mm3) (OR = 0.37, 95%CI: 0.14-0.97, I2 = 43%), new HIV diagnosis (OR = 0.07, 95%CI: 0.05-0.10, I2 = 68%), and in those who lacked belief in ART safety (OR = 0.32, 95%CI: 0.18-0.56, I2 = 0%) and efficacy (OR = 0.31, 95%CI: 0.17-0.57, I2 = 0%). Non-adherence was high among inmates who lacked social support (OR = 3.36, 95%CI: 2.03-5.56, I2 = 35%), had low self-efficiency score (OR = 2.50, 95%CI: 1.64,-3.80, I2 = 22%) and those with depressive symptoms (OR = 2.02, 95%CI: 1.34-3.02, I2 = 0%). Lower odds of viral suppression was associated with history of incarceration (OR = 0.40, 95%CI: 0.35-0.46, I2 = 0%), re-incarceration (OR = 0.09, 95%CI: 0.06-0.13, I2 = 64%) and male gender (OR = 0.55, 95%CI: 0.42-0.72, I2 = 0%). Higher odds of CD4 count <200cells/mm3 (OR = 2.01, 95%CI: 1.62, 2.50, I2 = 44%) and lower odds of viral suppression (OR = 0.20, 95%CI: 0.17-0.22, I2 = 0%) were observed during prison entry compared to those noticed during release. Given the high HIV risk in prison populations and rapid movements of these people between prison and community, correctional facilities have the potential to substantially contribute to the use of HIV treatment as a prevention strategy. Thus, there is an urgent need for reviewing context specific interventions and ensuring standard of HIV care in prisons, particularly in resource limited countries.

High viral suppression and low attrition in healthy HIV-infected patients initiated on ART with CD4 above 500 cells/µL in a program setting in Uganda.

The World Health Organization recommends antiretroviral therapy (ART) for all HIV-infected patients at all CD4 counts. However, there are concerns that asymptomatic patients may have poorer viral suppression and high attrition. We sought to determine attrition and viral suppression among healthy HIV-infected patients initiated on ART in program settings. This cross-sectional study enrolled ART-experienced patients attending two PEPFAR-supported, high-volume clinics in Kampala, Uganda. Eligible patients were >18 years and had completed at least six months on ART. Participants were interviewed on socio-demographics, ART history and plasma viral load (VL) determined using Abbott Real-time. Predictors of viral suppression (<75 copies/ml) were determined using multivariate logistic regression. Overall, 267 participants were screened, 228 were eligible and 203 (89%) retained in care (visit within 90 days). Of the 203 participants, 115 (56.7%) were key-populations. Viral suppression was achieved in 173 patients (85%; 95% CI, 80.3%-90.1%). The factors associated with viral suppression were prior VL tests (AOR 6.98; p-value <0.001) and receiving care from a general clinic (AOR 5.41; p=0.009). Asymptomatic patients initiated on ART with high baseline CD4 counts, achieve high viral suppression with low risk of attrition. VL monitoring and clinic type are associated with viral suppression.

Gender Differences in HIV Testing, Diagnosis, and Linkage to Care in Healthcare Settings: Identifying African American Women with HIV in Chicago

Women account for 25% of all people living with HIV and 19% of new diagnoses in the United States. African American (AA) women are disproportionately affected. Yet, differences in the care continuum entry are not well understood between patient populations and healthcare sites. We aim to examine gender differences in diagnosis and linkage to care (LTC) in the Expanded HIV Testing and Linkage to Care (X-TLC) program within healthcare settings. Data were collected from 14 sites on the South and West sides of Chicago. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to determine the differences in HIV diagnoses and LTC by gender and HIV status. From 2011 to 2016, X-TLC performed 281,017 HIV tests; 63.7% of those tested were women. Overall HIV seroprevalence was 0.57%, and nearly one third (29.4%) of HIV-positive patients identified were cisgender women. Of newly diagnosed HIV-positive women, 89% were AA. 58.5% of new diagnoses in women were made at acute care hospitals, with the remainder at community health centers. Women who were newly diagnosed had a higher baseline CD4 count at diagnosis compared with men. Overall, women had lower odds of LTC compared with men (adjusted odds ratio = 0.58, 95% confidence interval 0.44-0.78) when controlling for patient demographics and newly versus previously diagnosed HIV status. Thus, interventions that focus on optimizing entry into the care continuum for AA women need to be explored.

Adherence to antiretroviral therapy among HIV/ AIDS patients in the context of early treatment initiation in Vietnam.

PurposeThis study aimed to assess the antiretroviral therapy (ART) compliance among patients with HIV/AIDS and its associated factors in the context of universal ART initiation in Vietnam.Patients and methodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted in five ART clinics located in three provinces, such as Hanoi, Thanh Hoa, and Lao Cai, from July to September 2017. Overall, adherence to ART in the last month was measured using a 100-point Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Besides, information about forgetting doses in the last 4 days and delaying taking pills in the last 7 days was also reported.ResultsAmong 482 patients, the suboptimal adherence rate was 54.5%. Noncurrent smoking (coefficient =4.19, 95% CI 0.42–7.97), higher baseline CD4 count (coefficient =4.35, 95% CI 0.58–8.13), and no traveling difficulties (coefficient =6.17, 95% CI 2.27–10.06) were predictors of higher VAS adherence score. Suboptimal adherence was associated with mountainous residence (OR =5.34, 95% CI 2.81–10.16). Female respondents were less likely to delay taking pills in the last 7 days (OR =0.19, 95% CI 0.07–0.52).ConclusionOur study embraced early ART initiation in Vietnam; however, this approach should be parallel with appropriate resource allocation and service delivery.

High Baseline CD4 Count and Exclusive Breastfeeding Are Associated with Lower Rates of Mother to Child HIV Transmission in Northwestern Uganda: A Two-Year Retrospective Cohort Study

Background. Under Option B plus, the transmission of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) along the Early Infant Diagnosis (EID) of HIV cascade remains unknown. We described HIV transmission along the EID cascade and determined associated factors at Arua Regional Referral Hospital, Northwestern Uganda. Methods. Data on 295 mother-baby pairs in EID care (January 2014 and April 2015) was extracted, cleaned, and analysed in STATA. Univariate, bivariate, and multivariate analyses were performed. Independently associated factors were stated in adjusted odds ratio (AOR), 95% confidence interval (CI), and p-values. Results. 233 (89.0%) mothers were above 30 years, 251 (85.1%) were in World Health Organization (WHO) clinical stages I/II at enrolment, 170 (57.6%) attended antenatal care (ANC) visits during recent pregnancy, and 204 (69.1%) delivered in a health facility. Meanwhile, 257 (87.1%) HIV Exposed Infants (HEIs) received Nevirapine prophylaxis from birth up to 6 weeks and 245 (83.0%) were exclusively breastfed during the first 6 months. Of 295 mother-baby pairs, 25 (8.5%) HEIs turned HIV-positive along the EID cascade. Baseline maternal CD4 count of more than 500 cells/ul compared to less than 500 cells/ul (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 0.29; 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 0.10–0.85; p = 0.024) and exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) in the first 6 months of delivery in contrast to not EBF in the first 6 months (AOR = 0.17; 95% CI: 0.52–0.55; p = 0.003) reduced HIV transmission. Meanwhile, ANC visits, place of delivery, time of Nevirapine initiation, and maternal antiretroviral therapy use were not significantly associated with infant HIV transmission. Conclusion. HIV transmission was high. High baseline CD4 count and exclusive breastfeeding reduced HIV transmission.

Application of The Change Point Analysis to The Long-Term Restoration of CD4 Count Among Well-Controlled HIV-1 Infected Patients Who Started Antiretroviral Therapy

BackgroundAlthough CD4 count is an important marker for prognosis of patients infected with HIV-1, how long and how much CD4 count will increase after initiation of cART are still unknown. Hence, the aim of this study is, using change point analysis, to examine the long-term CD4 count restoration among well-controlled HIV-1 patients.MethodsIn this single-center cohort study at AIDS Clinical Center, Tokyo, we examined HIV-1 infected patients who initiated cART between January 2004 and January 2012 and achieved HIV viral load of <200 copies/mL within first 48 weeks of treatment and maintained viral suppression (VL <200 copies/mL) for at least 4 years. cART was defined as combination regimen which consisted of NNRTI, PI, or INSTI, plus two NRTIs. All patients were followed until censoring (defined by VL >200 copies/mL, discontinuation of cART for >30 days, lost to follow-up for >1 year, initiating chemotherapy for malignancy, or death), or at end of the observation period (September 30, 2015). Change point analysis was performed to determine the time point where the restoration of CD4 count becomes plateau.ResultsOf 752 patients, 708 (94.2%) were male and 89.9% was MSM. The median age was 39.3 years [IQR, 32–45] and the median baseline CD4 count and %CD4 were 172 cells/mm3 [IQR, 61–254], and 13.8% [IQR, 7.7–18.5], respectively. The median follow-up period was 87.0 months [IQR, 65.2–109.2] and 134 were followed over ten years. With change point analysis, both longitudinal increase of CD4 count and %CD4 increased linearly until 78.6 and 62.2 months, respectively. Stratified by baseline CD4 count (<200 cells/mm3, 200–350 cells/mm3, and >350 cells/mm3), CD4 count increased linearly until 76.2, 62.4, and 58.6 months, respectively. Moreover, the percentage of patient who achieved 500 cells/mm3 during study period was 63.5%, 87.2%, and 92.0%, respectively.ConclusionWith change point analysis, restoration of CD4 count and %CD4 continued increasing linearly until 6.5 and 5 years of cART, respectively. Patients with lower baseline CD4 count showed longer CD4 count recovery than those with higher baseline CD4; however, their CD4 count did not recover as high as those with higher baseline CD4 count.Disclosures All authors: No reported disclosures.

Incidence and Risk Factors for Incident Syphilis among HIV-1-Infected Men Who Have Sex with Men in a Large Urban HIV Clinic in Tokyo, 2008-2015.

BackgroundThe epidemiology of incident syphilis infection among HIV-1-infected men who have sex with men (MSM) largely remains unknown.MethodsThe incidence and risk factors for incident syphilis (positive TPHA and RPR> = 1:8) among HIV-1-infected MSM who visited a large HIV clinic in Tokyo for the first time between 2008 and 2013 were determined, using clinical data and stored blood samples taken every three months for screening and determination of the date of incident syphilis. Poisson regression compared the incidence of syphilis at different observation periods.ResultsOf 885 HIV-1-infected MSM with baseline data, 34% either presented with active syphilis at baseline (21%) or became infected with syphilis during follow-up (13%). After excluding 214 patients (MSM with syphilis at baseline (n = 190) and no follow-up syphilis test (n = 24)), of 671 men, 112 (17%) developed incident syphilis with an incidence of 43.7/1,000 person-years [95% CI, 36.5–52.3]. The incidence decreased slightly during observation period although the trend was not significant (2008–2009: 48.2/1,000 person-years, 2010–2011: 51.1/1,000 person-years, 2012–2013: 42.6/1,000 person-years, 2014 to 2015: 37.9/1,000 person-years, p = 0.315). Multivariable analysis identified young age (<33 years versus >40, HR 4.0, 95%CI 2.22–7.18, p<0.001), history of syphilis at baseline (HR 3.0, 95%CI 2.03–4.47, p<0.001), positive anti-amoeba antibody (HR 1.8, 95%CI 1.17–2.68, p = 0.006), and high baseline CD4 count (CD4 ≥350 /μL versus CD4 <200, HR 1.6, 95%CI 1.00–2.53, p = 0.050) as risk factors for incident syphilis. Incidence of syphilis was particularly high among young patients (age <33 years: 60.1/1,000 person-years). Interestingly, 37% of patients with incident syphilis were asymptomatic.ConclusionsAlthough incidence of syphilis did not increase during the observation period, it was high among HIV-1-infected MSM, especially among young HIV-1-infected MSM and those with history of syphilis, in Tokyo. Regular screening for syphilis needs to be strictly applied to this population.

Predictors of CD4 count over time among HIV patients initiated ART in Felege Hiwot Referral Hospital, northwest Ethiopia: multilevel analysis.

BackgroundThe response of HIV patients to antiretroviral therapy could be measured by its strong predictor, the CD4+ T cell (CD4) count for the initiation of antiretroviral therapy and proper management of disease progress. However, in addition to HIV, there are other factors which can influence the CD4 cell count. Patient’s socio-economic, demographic, and behavioral variables, accessibility, duration of treatment etc., can be used to predict CD4 count.MethodsA retrospective cohort study was conducted to examine the predictors of CD4 count among ART users enrolled in the first 6 months of 2010 and followed upto mid 2014. The covariance components model was employed to determine the predictors of CD4 count over time.ResultsA total of 1196 ART attendants were used to analyze their data descriptively. Eight hundred sixty-one of the attendants had two or more CD4 count measurements and were used in modeling their data using the linear mixed method. Thus, the mean rates of incensement of CD4 counts for patients with ambulatory/bedridden and working baseline functional status were 17.4 and 30.6 cells/mm3 per year, respectively. After adjusting for other variables, for each additional baseline CD4 count, the gain in CD4 count during treatment was 0.818 cells/mm3 (p value <0.001). Patient’s age and baseline functional status were also statistically significantly associated with CD4 count.ConclusionIn this study, higher baseline CD4 count, younger age, working functional status, and time in treatment contributed positively to the increment of the CD4 count. However, the observed increment at 4 year was unsatisfactory as the proportion of ART users who reached the normal range of CD4 count was very low. To see their long term treatment outcome, it requires further research with a sufficiently longer follow up data. In line with this, the local CD4 count for HIV negative persons should also be investigated for better comparison and proper disease management.

CD4 Count Recovery After Initiation of Antiretroviral Therapy in Patients Infected With Human Immunodeficiency Virus

BackgroundPrognosis for patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) correlates with levels of CD4+ T cells. Initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) interrupts multiple points in the virus life cycle, causing an increase in CD4 cells. The rate at which the CD4 count recovers is highly variable and subject to influence by many factors. MethodsWe performed a deidentified data review to determine factors influencing the rate of CD4 count recovery after ART initiation. The associations between the changes in CD4 count from baseline at 5 time points, and factors including age, race, weight, baseline CD4 count, baseline viral load, specific ART medications and various comorbidities, were evaluated with univariate and multivariate analyses, using t-test, analysis of variance and multiple regressions. ResultsCD4 count continued to rise even up to 10 years after ART initiation, with the steepest increase in the first 3 months. High baseline viral load and low baseline CD4 count had the most consistent positive influence on CD4 count recovery rate across the 5 measured time points. Other factors that were significantly positively associated with CD4 recovery rate included younger baseline age, higher baseline weight and female gender. ConclusionsCD4 counts in HIV positive patients who consistently take ART continue to increase out to at least 10 years. Patients with a more advanced HIV infection at baseline, as indicated by high viral loads or low CD4 counts, have a greater rate of CD4 count recovery after starting ART, possibly because their CD4 counts have more room for improvement.