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Pathogens
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Diagnosis and Prevention of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
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Diagnosis and Prevention of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

A special issue of Pathogens (ISSN 2076-0817).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 October 2023) | Viewed by 23978

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Jill Blumenthal

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Associate Professor of Medicine, Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, UC San Diego Health-La Jolla and Hillcrest Hospitals, San Diego, CA, USA
Interests: HIV prevention; preexposure prophylaxis; transgender individuals; gay and bisexual men
Dr. Meredith E. Clement

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Assistant Professor, Infectious Diseases Section, Louisiana State University Heatlh Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
Interests: HIV prevention; preexposure prophylaxis; STIs; syphilis; gay and bisexual men

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The United States has experienced a dramatic increase in the incidence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in recent years, and this has occurred during an era of increasingly effective HIV prevention and treatment. We propose a new STI care continuum to visualize engagement in care services as well as to identify gaps in care and opportunities for intervention. This Special Issue of Pathogens will focus on studies in STI epidemiology, prevention, and treatment, particularly among priority subpopulations (e.g., adolescents, sex workers, transgender and nonbinary individuals, gay and bisexual men, people who inject drugs) and within the context of HIV treatment and prevention services. Potential areas of interest include, but are not limited to the following:

  • STI incidence among those living with HIV or at risk for HIV (e.g., persons prescribed pre-exposure prophylaxis) and/or within priority subpopulations;
  • Rapid or other novel testing/screening strategies allowing for earlier diagnosis and treatment;
  • Novel interventions to enhance treatment, prevent ongoing transmission and/or reduce the overall burden of STIs.

Dr. Jill Blumenthal
Dr. Meredith E. Clement
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Pathogens is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2700 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • sexually transmitted infections
  • syphilis
  • gonorrhea
  • chlamydia
  • HIV treatment and prevention
  • HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis

Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

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13 pages, 1308 KiB  
Article
Pooled Pharyngeal, Rectal, and Urine Specimens for the Point-of-Care Detection of Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae by Lay Providers in Key Population-Led Health Services in Thailand
by Narukjaporn Thammajaruk, Reshmie A. Ramautarsing, Akarin Hiransuthikul, Sujittra Suriwong, Waranya Tasomboon, Prasopsuk Thapwong, Atachai Phunkron, Somporn Saiwaew, Theeranat Sangpasert, Tippawan Pankam, Matthew Avery, Stephen Mills, Praphan Phanuphak and Nittaya Phanuphak
Pathogens 2023, 12(10), 1268; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens12101268 - 21 Oct 2023
Viewed by 1157
Abstract
Routine testing for Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) in people with heightened risk is lacking in Thailand. This study aimed to assess the performance of the Cepheid Xpert CT/NG assay, conducted by key population (KP) lay providers, for CT and NG [...] Read more.
Routine testing for Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) in people with heightened risk is lacking in Thailand. This study aimed to assess the performance of the Cepheid Xpert CT/NG assay, conducted by key population (KP) lay providers, for CT and NG detection on single-site and pooled specimens from the pharynx, rectum, and urine. Between August and October 2019, 188 men who have sex with men and 11 transgender women were enrolled. Participants collected urine specimens while trained KP lay providers obtained pharyngeal and rectal swabs. Compared to single-site testing with the Abbott RealTime CT/NG assay by medical technologists, the Xpert assay missed one pharyngeal NG infection out of 199 single-site specimens, giving a 93.3% sensitivity for pharyngeal NG and one missed pharyngeal NG infection out of fifty pooled specimens, giving an 88.9% sensitivity for pharyngeal NG. There was no discrepancy between the two assays for CT detection. The Cohen’s Kappa coefficient of pooled specimen testing by the Xpert was 0.93 for NG and 1 for CT when compared to single-site testing by Abbott. Implementing pooled specimen testing by KP lay providers can be a cost-saving strategy to enhance the uptake of CT/NG services for populations facing increased risk. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnosis and Prevention of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs))
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10 pages, 309 KiB  
Article
Epidemiological Profile of Patients with Vulvovaginal Candidiasis from a Sexually Transmitted Infection Clinic in Southern Spain
by Encarnación Martínez-García, Juan Carlos Martínez-Martínez, Adelina Martín-Salvador, Alberto González-García, María Ángeles Pérez-Morente, María Adelaida Álvarez-Serrano and Inmaculada García-García
Pathogens 2023, 12(6), 756; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens12060756 - 24 May 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1381
Abstract
Epidemiological data on women suffering from vulvovaginal candidiasis and its recurrence are outdated and vague. The aim of this study was to identify the prevalence of women diagnosed with vulvovaginal candidiasis, as well as the epidemiological profile and associated risk factors in the [...] Read more.
Epidemiological data on women suffering from vulvovaginal candidiasis and its recurrence are outdated and vague. The aim of this study was to identify the prevalence of women diagnosed with vulvovaginal candidiasis, as well as the epidemiological profile and associated risk factors in the province of Granada (Spain). Data from the Centre for Sexually Transmitted Infections of the Granada province between 2000 and 2018 (N = 438) were used in this study. Associations between sociodemographic and sexual behaviour variables with vulvovaginal candidiasis were analysed using the Chi-square test and bivariate logistic regression. The prevalence of candidiasis was 14.6%. The sociodemographic profile corresponded to a woman aged 25.14 ± 4.8 years on average, who is of Spanish nationality (60.9%), a student (55.7%), in non-active employment (59.7%), with a higher education (56.7%), single (93.5%), and under 30 years of age (79.7%). Variables associated with this diagnosis were the absence of oro-genital contact (OR = 1.99; 95% CI = 0.25–0.74), having a regular partner (OR = 1.99; 95% CI = 1.05–3.75), and age of sexual debut, with the probability increasing by 12% (95% CI = 1.00–1.24) with each year. In this context, vulvovaginal candidiasis infection is common, and its epidemiological profile is contradictory, so our results do not suggest a relevant role of sexual risk behaviours in the diagnosis. Further research is needed to improve the estimates and factors associated with this infection. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnosis and Prevention of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs))
12 pages, 869 KiB  
Article
High Prevalence of Syphilis and Syphilis/HIV Coinfection among Men Who Have Sex with Men Who Attend Meeting Places in Mexico
by Dayana Nicté Vergara-Ortega, Andrés Tapia-Maltos, Antonia Herrera-Ortíz, Santa García-Cisneros, María Olamendi-Portugal and Miguel Ángel Sánchez-Alemán
Pathogens 2023, 12(3), 356; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens12030356 - 21 Feb 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2685
Abstract
Men who have sex with men (MSM) are disproportionately affected by syphilis, HIV, and syphilis/HIV coinfection. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) prevents HIV transmission but does not impede the spread or acquisition of syphilis. Information about syphilis/HIV coinfection among MSM is scarce. We aimed to [...] Read more.
Men who have sex with men (MSM) are disproportionately affected by syphilis, HIV, and syphilis/HIV coinfection. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) prevents HIV transmission but does not impede the spread or acquisition of syphilis. Information about syphilis/HIV coinfection among MSM is scarce. We aimed to determine the prevalence of syphilis/HIV coinfection in a national sample of MSM who attend meeting places (such as movies, clubs, gay bars, saunas, shopping malls, and others referred to by the same MSM participants of the study) in Mexico to evaluate factors associated with syphilis, and to compare the prevalence rates of syphilis between the current survey and DGE data. We performed a laboratory diagnosis to determine the rates of syphilis and HIV among the included MSM. The national and regional prevalence of syphilis was calculated. HIV and coinfection prevalence were determined only for the survey. All prevalence rates included 95%CIs. Descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate analyses were performed. The national prevalence rates of syphilis, HIV, and coinfection were 15.2%, 10.2%, and 5.7%, respectively. The region with the highest prevalence rate was Mexico City (39.4%). The center region, minimal “goods” (i.e., a minimal number of material possessions such as a car or dryer, etc., which served as a proxy for low economic income level), use of “inhalant drugs”, “HIV infection”, “sexual intercourse” only with men, “rewarded sex”, and “youngest age at first sexual encounter or debut” were risk factors for syphilis. In general, regional prevalence of syphilis was higher in the survey (2013) and DGE data from 2019 than in the DGE data from 2013. Similar to other countries, Mexico needs to assess elements around not only syphilis and HIV infections but also syphilis/HIV coinfection, and preventive measures focusing on MSM are needed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnosis and Prevention of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs))
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14 pages, 2369 KiB  
Article
Point-of-Care Diagnostic for Trichomonas vaginalis, the Most Prevalent, Non-Viral Sexually Transmitted Infection
by John F. Alderete and Hermes Chan
Pathogens 2023, 12(1), 77; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens12010077 - 3 Jan 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 10384
Abstract
A point-of-care (POC) diagnostic is needed for both women and men to establish universal screening and surveillance for the number one, non-viral sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by Trichomonas vaginalis. We developed a POC diagnostic for this STI using the MedMira Rapid [...] Read more.
A point-of-care (POC) diagnostic is needed for both women and men to establish universal screening and surveillance for the number one, non-viral sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by Trichomonas vaginalis. We developed a POC diagnostic for this STI using the MedMira Rapid Vertical Flow (RVF®) Technology test cartridge with a membrane that includes a Vertical procedural/reagent control line (referred to as CVL) and spotted with 1 µg of a 72.4-kDa truncated version of α-actinin called ACT::SOE3. This protein is a specific diagnostic target for antibody in sera of individuals with trichomoniasis. Serum antibody to ACT::SOE3 is a positive reaction with the test spot. Specificity of ACT::SOE3 was revealed with monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) generated to ACT::SOE3. Addition of negative control serum with MAb 67B reactive to ACT::SOE3 shows detection of both ACT::SOE3 and the CVL. Only positive sera of individuals had antibody reactive with ACT::SOE3 and detected the presence of the spot and the CVL. Negative control sera were unreactive with ACT::SOE3 and only showed the presence of the CVL. Importantly, to show proof-of-principle for POC application, ACT::SOE3 was detected with the positive patient sera spiked with whole blood. Finally, packaged cartridges stored with desiccant packs at 37 °C for one year gave identical results with the positive and negative human sera. Our results show the validity of this new POC serodiagnostic for this STI. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnosis and Prevention of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs))
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11 pages, 1097 KiB  
Article
Syphilis and Co-Infections with HIV-1, HBV, and HCV among People Who Use Crack-Cocaine in Northern Brazil
by Karen Lorena N. Baia, Ana Caroline C. Cordeiro, Paula Cristina R. Frade, Alanna Gabrielly N. Gouveia, Rafael Lima Resque, Luiz Marcelo L. Pinheiro, Ricardo Roberto S. Fonseca, Luiz Fernando A. Machado, Luisa C. Martins, Emil Kupek, Benedikt Fischer and Aldemir B. Oliveira-Filho
Pathogens 2022, 11(9), 1055; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens11091055 - 16 Sep 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2270
Abstract
The rates of syphilis and viral co-infections among people who use crack-cocaine (PWUCC) were assessed in this study. This cross-sectional study relied on biological and self-reported socio-behavioral data from a convenience sample of 990 PWUCC from twenty-six municipalities in the states of Amapá [...] Read more.
The rates of syphilis and viral co-infections among people who use crack-cocaine (PWUCC) were assessed in this study. This cross-sectional study relied on biological and self-reported socio-behavioral data from a convenience sample of 990 PWUCC from twenty-six municipalities in the states of Amapá and Pará, northern Brazil. Blood samples were collected to assess the presence of Treponema pallidum using the Rapid Qualitative Test (RQT) and the Venereal Disease Research Laboratory (VDRL). Reactive samples by RQT were used to assess the presence of HBV, HCV, and HIV-1 using Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA) and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). Logistic regression models were used to determine the association of variables assessed with syphilis. In total, 287 (29.0%) of the PWUCC sample had reactive results for syphilis. HBV (15.7%), HCV (5.9%), and HIV-1 (9.8%) were detected among PWUCC with syphilis. Young age, low monthly income and education level, long duration of crack-cocaine use, condomless sex, multiple sex partners, and exchange of sex for money/drugs were associated with syphilis. The present study provides unique insights on the epidemiological status of syphilis among PWUCC in northern Brazil, with multiple implications for improving urgent interventions for diagnosis, prevention, and treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnosis and Prevention of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs))
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Review

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11 pages, 298 KiB  
Review
From Innovation to Implementation: The Evolution of HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis and Future Implications
by Marta Rosas Cancio-Suárez, Jorge Díaz-Álvarez, Raquel Ron, Javier Martínez-Sanz, Sergio Serrano-Villar, Santiago Moreno and Matilde Sánchez-Conde
Pathogens 2023, 12(7), 924; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens12070924 - 9 Jul 2023
Viewed by 1102
Abstract
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a highly effective HIV-prevention strategy that involves the continuous administration of antiretroviral drugs to HIV-negative individuals with a substantial risk of contracting an HIV infection. The use of PrEP has shown a reduction in the risk of HIV acquisition [...] Read more.
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a highly effective HIV-prevention strategy that involves the continuous administration of antiretroviral drugs to HIV-negative individuals with a substantial risk of contracting an HIV infection. The use of PrEP has shown a reduction in the risk of HIV acquisition through sexual intercourse by up to 99%. Despite its effectiveness, PrEP uptake remains low among populations at high risk of HIV infection. This highlights the need for further research in strategies to enhance awareness and uptake of PrEP amongst these specific populations. This article presents a comprehensive overview of the existing literature on the effectiveness of PrEP in reducing HIV transmission rates. Additionally, we examine the obstacles related to PrEP implementation and uptake and put forward potential strategies to raise awareness and improve its use among populations at an increased risk of contracting HIV. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnosis and Prevention of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs))

Other

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11 pages, 6498 KiB  
Case Report
Granulomatous Secondary Syphilis: A Case Report with a Brief Overview of the Diagnostic Role of Immunohistochemistry
by Francesca Ambrogio, Gerardo Cazzato, Caterina Foti, Mauro Grandolfo, Gisella Biagina Mennuni, Gino Antonio Vena, Nicoletta Cassano, Teresa Lettini, Cosimo Castronovi, Vito Ingordo, Paolo Romita and Raffaele Filotico
Pathogens 2023, 12(8), 1054; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens12081054 - 18 Aug 2023
Viewed by 4056
Abstract
The diagnosis of syphilis can be challenging for dermatologists and dermatopathologists. In particular, secondary syphilis can have different clinical and histopathological presentations. A granulomatous tissue response is an unusual finding in secondary syphilis. We report the case of a 77-year-old man who presented [...] Read more.
The diagnosis of syphilis can be challenging for dermatologists and dermatopathologists. In particular, secondary syphilis can have different clinical and histopathological presentations. A granulomatous tissue response is an unusual finding in secondary syphilis. We report the case of a 77-year-old man who presented with a 4-week history of non-pruritic generalised macules, papules, nodules and plaques. Histopathologically, there was a dense perivascular and periadnexal lympho-histiocytic dermal infiltrate with non-palisading and non-caseifying epithelioid granulomas and abundant plasma cells. The diagnosis of syphilis was confirmed by serology and immunohistochemical detection of Treponema pallidum in the biopsy specimen. A brief overview of the diagnostic role of immunohistochemistry is also provided, with particular emphasis on reported cases of granulomatous secondary syphilis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnosis and Prevention of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs))
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