Background: Neurological involvement in HIV infection encompasses a broad clini-cal spectrum, most commonly presenting as peripheral neuropathy. However, focal motor deficits such as isolated foot drop are rare, and cases accompanied by Central Nervous System (CNS) involvement pose significant diagnostic challenges. Case: A 53-year-old male patient was referred to our clinic after testing positive for anti-HIV during the evaluation of a one-month history of foot drop and sore throat. On admission, neuro-logical examination revealed isolated motor weakness without additional deficits. Brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) demonstrated multiple T2 hyperintense lesions with contrast enhance-ment, consistent with HIV-associated CNS involvement presenting as a focal enhancing brain lesion. Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) analysis excluded opportunistic infections and neurosyphilis. Electromyography (EMG) demonstrated findings consistent with incidental chronic L5 radicu-lopathy. Results: Antiretroviral therapy with bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide (B/FTC/ TAF) was initiated. At six months of follow-up, marked clinical improvement in foot drop was observed, accompanied by regression of lesions on follow-up MRI. Conclusion: This case highlights that foot drop may represent a rare initial manifestation of HIV infection and may reflect combined neuroaxis involvement affecting both central and peripheral nervous systems, rather than an isolated peripheral mononeuropathy. Early initiation of antiretroviral therapy can lead to both clinical and radiological improvement.
BACKGROUND:Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) is a major global health challenge. This virus undermines the immune system of infected individuals, thereby increasing their susceptibility to infectious diseases and cancer. Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice) is a medicinal plant that is extensively used worldwide for its notable therapeutic properties. Licorice roots contain several compounds, particularly chalcones, which exhibit antiviral activity. OBJECTIVES:This study aimed to explore the inhibitory potential of licorice root-derived chalcones on three key enzymes involved in HIV-1 replication: integrase, protease, and reverse transcriptase, using an in silico method, and to evaluate the pharmacokinetic and toxicological properties of the selected compounds. METHODS:Licorice-derived chalcones were identified by searching various databases, and their molecular structures were retrieved from the PubChem database. The three-dimensional architectures of the targets, namely, integrase, protease, and reverse transcriptase, were obtained from the Protein Data Bank. Molecular docking was performed to examine the interactions between chalcones and the targets. Relevant online tools were used to predict the pharmacokinetic and toxicological properties of the selected compounds. RESULTS:Among the 30 chalcones evaluated, paratocarpin A demonstrated the most significant docking scores against all three enzymes. Furthermore, this compound exhibited better pharmacokinetic and toxicological characteristics than those of the other chalcones studied. CONCLUSION:Paratocarpine A could be considered a potential multi-target anti-HIV-1 candidate, meriting further investigation.
BACKGROUND:Long-acting cabotegravir/rilpivirine (CARLA) is an effective treatment for HIV-1. However, concerns remain regarding potential pharmacodynamic interactions, particularly with intramuscular antibiotics used to treat sexually transmitted infections (STIs), which are common among people living with HIV (PLWH). OBJECTIVE:The objective of this study was to assess whether concomitant intramuscular administration of CARLA and antibiotics affects antiretroviral control or impairs the syphilis serological response. METHODS:A retrospective, monocentric cohort study was conducted. The first analysis compared PLWH receiving CARLA and intramuscular antibiotics (benzathine penicillin, ceftriaxone, or gentamicin) with those receiving only CARLA. HIV RNA levels were evaluated before and after injection. The second analysis evaluated the serological response to syphilis treatment in PLWH who received CARLA versus controls not treated with CARLA. Serological response was defined as a fourfold decrease in the rapid plasma reagin (RPR) titer. Statistical comparisons included non-parametric tests and Cox regression analysis. RESULTS:Among the 201 individuals included in the antiretroviral response analysis, no significant differences in HIV RNA suppression or blips were observed between the groups. Similarly, in 303 individuals assessed for syphilis response, the serological response rate and time to response were comparable. Adjusted Cox regression did not show an association between CARLA co-administration and delayed serological response (aHR 0.9, 95% CI 0.52-1.58, p=0.723). DISCUSSION:Concomitant intramuscular administration of CARLA and antibiotics does not appear to compromise HIV viral suppression or syphilis serological response. CONCLUSION:These findings support the co-administration of long-acting antiretrovirals and intramuscular antibiotics without compromising their effectiveness.
BACKGROUND:A vascular neoplasm linked to HHV-8 infection, Kaposi sarcoma (KS) is common in immunocompromised patients, notably people living with HIV. Isolated external ear involvement is uncommon and may present clinically as keloids, cysts, or infections. CASE PRESENTATION:A 31-year-old man presented with a one-month history of ipsilateral dacryocystitis and a rapidly growing, painful right auricular mass. The auricular lesion was initially presumed to be a sebaceous cyst during his emergency room evaluation, with actively draining purulent material. Labs showed severe pancytopenia with anemia of chronic disease, and his HIV screening test was newly reactive. Otolaryngology described an exophytic mass on the superior pinna with concern for superinfection. Local wound care was recommended, with excision planned once inflammation improved. CT showed a heterogeneous, exophytic soft-tissue mass measuring 2.2 × 1.9 cm involving the pinna. The lesion was excised, and pathology was consistent with classic KS morphology. Pathology showed a single 2.5 cm spindle cell lesion. Immunohistochemistry supported the diagnosis of KS, with tumor cells positive for HHV-8, CD31, and CD34. Mitotic activity was 21 per 10 highpower fields. Margins were negative, and no lymphovascular invasion was seen. The dacryocystitis resolved with antibiotics. CONCLUSION:Kaposi sarcoma of the ear is uncommon and often appears without systemic symptoms, which can delay diagnosis. Purulence and tenderness may be mistaken for a simple infection, and a keloid-like morphology can also mislead clinicians. This case highlights the similarity of these lesions, making biopsy essential to differentiate Kaposi sarcoma from more common benign or infectious ear conditions. Clinicians should consider Kaposi sarcoma of the external ear when evaluating persistent or unusual ear masses, especially in patients with weakened immune systems. Early tissue diagnosis and teamwork among specialists may lead to improved outcomes.
INTRODUCTION:Weight gain with modern antiretroviral therapy has raised concerns about long-term metabolic implications, particularly with integrase strand transfer inhibitor‑based regimens. However, evidence regarding the metabolic implications of long‑acting cabotegravir plus rilpivirine remains limited. This targeted review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate weight outcomes in adults with HIV receiving long‑acting cabotegravir plus rilpivirine. METHODS:A targeted literature review was conducted via the PubMed database to identify peer-reviewed studies reporting changes in body weight among adults with HIV receiving long-acting cabotegravir plus rilpivirine. Studies that met predefined eligibility criteria underwent quantitative synthesis using random-effects meta-analysis. Among eligible studies, absolute weight change was stratified and evaluated at ≤1 year and >1 year; weight change relative to oral antiretroviral therapy controls was analyzed at ≤1 year. Moderator and exploratory regression analyses supplemented these findings as available. RESULTS:Long-acting cabotegravir plus rilpivirine was associated with a statistically significant mean weight increase at ≤1 year (0.92 kg; P = .006) compared to baseline. No significant differences in mean weight change were observed between long‑acting cabotegravir plus rilpivirine and oral antiretroviral therapy through ≤1 year (P = .225). At >1 year, long‑acting cabotegravir plus rilpivirine produced a significant pooled weight gain (P < .001), exceeding the ≤1-year pooled mean by approximately 1.3 kg. Moderator analyses indicated greater weight gain in cohorts with fewer male participants (P = .047); no differences were observed between once- and twice-monthly dosing. Compared with oral antiretroviral therapy controls, long‑acting cabotegravir plus rilpivirine was associated with greater weight gain in studies using mixed-class antiretroviral therapy comparators versus those using only integrase strand transfer inhibitor-based antiretroviral therapy regimens (P < .001). DISCUSSION:Long‑acting cabotegravir plus rilpivirine is associated with modest early weight gain that may increase with longer exposure. Limited evidence suggests similar weight-related outcomes to contemporary integrase strand transfer inhibitor‑based antiretroviral therapy regimens. Further research is warranted to better characterize mediators of weight gain and long-term metabolic implications associated with long‑acting cabotegravir plus rilpivirine use. CONCLUSION:These findings support the potential for progressive weight gain with prolonged use of long-acting cabotegravir plus rilpivirine and reinforce the importance of continued monitoring of weight-related changes in people with HIV receiving this regimen.
In the published version of this article [1], the author identified the error in the reported funding grant number. This has now been corrected. The original article can be found online at: https://www.eurekaselect.com/article/150528ss Details of the error and a correction are provided here. ORIGINAL: FUNDING This research was financially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (grant number: 321600034), the Guangxi Natural Science Foundation of China (grant number: 2021GXNSFAA075026), and the Baise Science and Technology project of Guangxi, China (grant numbers: 20212346 and 20224146). CORRECTED: FUNDING This research was financially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (grant number: 32160034), the Guangxi Natural Science Foundation of China (grant number: 2021GXNSFAA075026), and the Baise Science and Technology project of Guangxi, China (grant numbers: 20212346 and 20224146). The authors apologize for any inconvenience caused.
Objective HIV testing procedure in the presence of HIV indicator conditions is considered an effective strategy to identify undiagnosed people living with HIV. We aimed in this study to evaluate HIV testing and diagnosis rates obtained via non-targeted testing in seven hospitals across T & uuml;rkiye, specifically focusing on patients with HIV indicator conditions.Objective HIV testing procedure in the presence of HIV indicator conditions is considered an effective strategy to identify undiagnosed people living with HIV. We aimed in this study to evaluate HIV testing and diagnosis rates obtained via non-targeted testing in seven hospitals across T & uuml;rkiye, specifically focusing on patients with HIV indicator conditions.Methods Data from a total of 3,371,188 patients with hospital admissions for various clinical conditions were analyzed in this retrospective multicenter cross-sectional study, which was carried out in seven hospitals within a 6-months period. HIV testing and HIV diagnosis rates were retrospectively evaluated in the overall population and in the subgroups of patients with and without HIV-indicator conditions.Methods Data from a total of 3,371,188 patients with hospital admissions for various clinical conditions were analyzed in this retrospective multicenter cross-sectional study, which was carried out in seven hospitals within a 6-months period. HIV testing and HIV diagnosis rates were retrospectively evaluated in the overall population and in the subgroups of patients with and without HIV-indicator conditions.Methods Data from a total of 3,371,188 patients with hospital admissions for various clinical conditions were analyzed in this retrospective multicenter cross-sectional study, which was carried out in seven hospitals within a 6-months period. HIV testing and HIV diagnosis rates were retrospectively evaluated in the overall population and in the subgroups of patients with and without HIV-indicator conditions.Results Rates of HIV testing and positivity in the overall population of 3,371,188 patients screened across seven hospitals were 8.3% (281,321/3,371,188) and 0.2% (557/281,321), respectively. HIV testing and HIV positivity rates in 19,410 patients with HIV-indicator conditions were 11.5% (2,225/19,410) and 0.4% (9/2,225), respectively. HIV testing and HIV positivity rates in 3,351,778 patients without HIV-indicator conditions were 8.3% (279,096/3,351,778) and 0.2% (548/279,096), respectively. The rate of HIV testing and HIV positivity in patients with HIV-indicator conditions was statistically significantly higher than in the patients without HIV-indicator conditions (p = 0.000 and p = 0.047, respectively).Results Rates of HIV testing and positivity in the overall population of 3,371,188 patients screened across seven hospitals were 8.3% (281,321/3,371,188) and 0.2% (557/281,321), respectively. HIV testing and HIV positivity rates in 19,410 patients with HIV-indicator conditions were 11.5% (2,225/19,410) and 0.4% (9/2,225), respectively. HIV testing and HIV positivity rates in 3,351,778 patients without HIV-indicator conditions were 8.3% (279,096/3,351,778) and 0.2% (548/279,096), respectively. The rate of HIV testing and HIV positivity in patients with HIV-indicator conditions was statistically significantly higher than in the patients without HIV-indicator conditions (p = 0.000 and p = 0.047, respectively).Results Rates of HIV testing and positivity in the overall population of 3,371,188 patients screened across seven hospitals were 8.3% (281,321/3,371,188) and 0.2% (557/281,321), respectively. HIV testing and HIV positivity rates in 19,410 patients with HIV-indicator conditions were 11.5% (2,225/19,410) and 0.4% (9/2,225), respectively. HIV testing and HIV positivity rates in 3,351,778 patients without HIV-indicator conditions were 8.3% (279,096/3,351,778) and 0.2% (548/279,096), respectively. The rate of HIV testing and HIV positivity in patients with HIV-indicator conditions was statistically significantly higher than in the patients without HIV-indicator conditions (p = 0.000 and p = 0.047, respectively).Results Rates of HIV testing and positivity in the overall population of 3,371,188 patients screened across seven hospitals were 8.3% (281,321/3,371,188) and 0.2% (557/281,321), respectively. HIV testing and HIV positivity rates in 19,410 patients with HIV-indicator conditions were 11.5% (2,225/19,410) and 0.4% (9/2,225), respectively. HIV testing and HIV positivity rates in 3,351,778 patients without HIV-indicator conditions were 8.3% (279,096/3,351,778) and 0.2% (548/279,096), respectively. The rate of HIV testing and HIV positivity in patients with HIV-indicator conditions was statistically significantly higher than in the patients without HIV-indicator conditions (p = 0.000 and p = 0.047, respectively).Discussion Our findings revealed that only 11.5% of patients with HIV-indicator conditions underwent HIV testing, indicating that most patients are not timely diagnosed despite having HIV-indicator conditions, and these patients remain at risk of living with unknown HIV status. The utilization of testing outside the HIV-indicator conditions criteria in 8.3% of cases was also notable. The likelihood of a positive diagnosis rate was at least 2-fold increased when the screening was guided by HIV-indicator conditions.Discussion Our findings revealed that only 11.5% of patients with HIV-indicator conditions underwent HIV testing, indicating that most patients are not timely diagnosed despite having HIV-indicator conditions, and these patients remain at risk of living with unknown HIV status. The utilization of testing outside the HIV-indicator conditions criteria in 8.3% of cases was also notable. The likelihood of a positive diagnosis rate was at least 2-fold increased when the screening was guided by HIV-indicator conditions.Discussion Our findings revealed that only 11.5% of patients with HIV-indicator conditions underwent HIV testing, indicating that most patients are not timely diagnosed despite having HIV-indicator conditions, and these patients remain at risk of living with unknown HIV status. The utilization of testing outside the HIV-indicator conditions criteria in 8.3% of cases was also notable. The likelihood of a positive diagnosis rate was at least 2-fold increased when the screening was guided by HIV-indicator conditions.Conclusion In conclusion, according to the study, HIV testing in patients with HIV-indicator conditions increased the rate of HIV diagnosis, but the rate of requesting testing in the presence of HIV-indicator conditions was low. HIV testing practices among physicians in the Turkish healthcare settings should be improved with interventions for an improved awareness of HIV-indicator conditions-guided HIV testing, and adopting the related guidelines to appropriately identify undiagnosed HIV cases.Conclusion In conclusion, according to the study, HIV testing in patients with HIV-indicator conditions increased the rate of HIV diagnosis, but the rate of requesting testing in the presence of HIV-indicator conditions was low. HIV testing practices among physicians in the Turkish healthcare settings should be improved with interventions for an improved awareness of HIV-indicator conditions-guided HIV testing, and adopting the related guidelines to appropriately identify undiagnosed HIV cases.
OBJECTIVE:This study aimed to describe the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of individuals seeking PEP in the Republic of Cyprus and identify characteristics associated with PEP administration, willingness to use PrEP, and engagement with sexual health services. METHODS:A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Grigorios HIV Reference Clinic, Larnaca General Hospital, from September 2022 to December 2024. Data from 214 individuals presenting with potential high-risk HIV exposure were collected using structured questionnaires, administered at presentation. Descriptive statistics and bivariate analyses (t-tests and chi-square tests) were performed to explore possible associations (p<0.05). RESULTS:Of the 214 participants, 209 (97.7%) received PEP, with 48.1% presenting within 24 hours. The majority were male (85.5%), aged 25-34 (43.9%), and identified as men who have sex with men (MSM). Unprotected anal intercourse (44.9%) was the most common exposure type. Sexual orientation was linked to the type of exposure (p<0.001). Willingness to use PrEP was associated with prior PEP/PrEP use (p<0.001), and willingness to attend sexual health clinics was correlated with recent HIV testing (p=0.030). DISCUSSION:PEP services in Cyprus appear to reach key high-risk groups, specifically MSM, with generally timely access. However, late presentations, reported access and awareness barriers regardless of fully reimbursed PEP, and infrequent HIV testing suggest persistent gaps in equitable prevention coverage. Decentralising services and strengthening testing and education are required alongside PrEP application. CONCLUSION:High PEP uptake and timely access were observed among MSM in Cyprus, though gaps in PrEP awareness and engagement with preventive services remain.
INTRODUCTION/OBJECTIVE:Although advancements in antiretroviral therapy (ART) have been able to control HIV infection in people with HIV (HIV+) to achieve suppressed viral loads and recovered CD4 T cell counts, the virus persists in latent reservoirs. Characterizing the molecular, biological, and immunological features of HIV-1 genes from these HIV+ virologically controlled individuals is essential for the development of eradication strategies. The HIV-1 accessory gene, vpu, plays important roles in the release of progeny virions and modulation of innate immune signaling, contributing to viral pathogenesis and persistence in the host. In this study, we analyzed the vpu sequences from 21 predominantly older HIV+ individuals with long-term ART-mediated viral suppression (mostly undetectable viral load) and mostly restored CD4 T cell counts. METHODS:Genomic DNA was isolated from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) extracted from blood samples from 21 HIV+ individuals. Amplification of the vpu gene was performed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), followed by cloning utilizing a TOPO vector. Bioinformatics analysis of the vpu nucleotide sequences was conducted. RESULTS:Phylogenetic analysis of 288 vpu sequences revealed that the vpu sequences from each of the 21 HIV+ individuals were distinctly separated from one another and formed individual clusters within their respective subtrees. These sequences showed a low degree of genetic variability, reduced genetic diversity estimates, and most patient sequences did not display evidence of positive selective pressure. In 82% of the deduced Vpu amino acid sequences, the open reading frames were intact, with most sequences demonstrating conservation of functional domains necessary for Vpu activity involving virion release, BST-2 degradation, oligomerization, and CD4 degradation. Deduced amino acid sequences exhibited increased variability in the previously identified CTL epitope within Vpu, suggesting the presence of escape mutants. DISCUSSION:Our findings demonstrate that the coding sequences and functional domains of the HIV-1 vpu gene from HIV+ PMBC DNA on long-term ART and improved CD4 counts were highly conserved with low genetic diversity and increased variability in the CTL epitope, sug-gesting a role for Vpu in viral persistence. CONCLUSION:The vpu sequences from 21 older HIV+ individuals on long-term ART and suppressed viremia exhibited a low degree of genetic diversity, conserved functional domains, and variability within the CTL epitope, suggesting a role in viral persistence in these HIV+ individuals. These findings may help develop new treatments and curative strategies.
BACKGROUND:Married Men who have Sex with Men (MSM) constitute a bridge population for HIV diffusion into low-risk groups, with spousal non-disclosure rates exceeding 60% in China. It will increase the risk of secondary transmission within families. Despite the timely implementation of evidence-based interventions, reducing MTCT rates to below 2% in China, residual pediatric infections persist. CASE REPORT:In 2025, a man in Jinan City, Shandong Province, was diagnosed with HIV infection likely acquired through sexual contact with men and may have subsequently transmitted the virus to his breastfeeding spouse via heterosexual intercourse. The mother, in turn, likely transmitted HIV to her infant through breastfeeding, resulting in an intrafamilial transmission cluster involving three individuals. All three family members are currently receiving standard antiretroviral therapy (ART) for HIV management. CONCLUSION:Married MSM may bridge HIV to spouses, necessitating supported partner notification services. "To mitigate false-negative results from maternal HIV antibody tests during pregnancy, a pre-delivery Nucleic Acid Test (NAT) is imperative. Sustained postpartum screening prevents tertiary transmission in breastfeeding families.
INTRODUCTION:Isolated anti-HBc positivity, defined as the presence of anti-HBc in the absence of HBsAg and anti-HBs, may reflect prior exposure to HBV, occult HBV infection, or a false-positive result. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of isolated anti-HBc positivity and its associated factors among PLWH in Istanbul, Turkey. METHODS:This retrospective cross-sectional study included adult People Living With HIV (PLWH) who underwent HBV serological testing between January 2000 and December 2019 at a tertiary hospital in Istanbul. Demographic and clinical characteristics were analyzed. RESULTS:Among 386 PLWH, 8.8% (n = 34) had isolated anti-HBc positivity. Compared with HBV-seronegative PLWH (n = 194), these patients were older (48 [IQR 42-54] vs. 42 [35-50] years; p = 0.007), more likely to have BMI ≥ 25 kg/m² (p = 0.025), and to report smoking (p = 0.041), based on available data. Pre-ART HBV DNA testing was available in 13/34 (38.2%) patients with isolated anti-HBc, and all tested samples were HBV DNA-negative. DISCUSSION:Isolated anti-HBc prevalence was 8.8% in PLWH; older age, BMI ≥25 kg/m², and smoking were more common in this group. Although no HBV DNA was detected in the tested subset, limited HBV DNA testing precluded estimation of OBI prevalence in this cohort. CONCLUSION:Recognition of isolated anti-HBc positivity and occult HBV infection is important for ART selection and patient follow-up. Although isolated anti-HBc positivity was identified in 8.8% of this cohort, more systematic and risk-stratified HBV DNA assessment is needed to better define the true burden of occult HBV infection.
Introduction The aim of the study was to examine the relationship between cognitive functions and gene polymorphism associated with cardiovascular risk in young adults and patients with arterial hypertension (AH). Methods The observational study involved 152 subjects, among whom there were 2 independent groups: a group of young healthy volunteers and a group of hypertensive patients. Cognitive functions were assessed using subtests 5 and 7 of the Wechsler Scale and the Bourdon test. Genetic testing was carried out for the following polymorphisms: APOC3 -482 C>T (rs2854117), PON1 L55M A>T (rs854560), and PON1 Q192R A>G (rs662). Identification of gene polymorphisms was performed via DNA pyrosequencing. Results In both groups (young individuals and patients with AH), the presence of the Q192R A>G polymorphism of the PON1 gene was associated with worse results on cognitive tests. In young people, lower levels of concentration of attention, as well as the degree of mastery of visual-motor skills, were also associated with the -482 C>T polymorphism of the APOC3 gene and L55M A>T of the PON1 gene. Discussion A relationship was identified between cognitive functions and polymorphism of genes associated with cardiovascular risk. The presence of the Q192R A>G polymorphism A allele of the PON1 gene accounted for the worst results of cognitive tests, both in young adults and patients with AH. Conclusion It should be noted that polymorphic variants of genes involved in lipid metabolism and antioxidant defense-namely, the -482 C>T variant of the APOC3 gene and the L55M A>T variant of the PON1 gene-are significantly associated with lower cognitive test scores in young individuals. The genetic analysis, including the determination of the Q192R A>G polymorphism of the PON1 gene and the -482 C>T polymorphism of the APOC3 gene, may be included in the examination of patients with arterial hypertension to predict the development of cognitive dysfunction.
Introduction Secreted phosphoprotein 1 (SPP1) is upregulated in cancers, but its role in metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC) and expression in HIV-associated CRC remain unclear.Methods Transcriptomic data from the GEO and TCGA databases were analyzed. Metastasis-specific genes were identified. SPP1-associated functions were explored using GO enrichment, KEGG pathway analysis, and GSVA. Prognostic value was assessed. SPP1 expression was evaluated in 30 CRC specimens (15 HIV-positive, 15 HIV-negative) via immunohistochemistry.Results SPP1 exhibited a metastasis-specific expression pattern. High SPP1 correlated with significantly elevated immune cell infiltration and adverse clinicopathological features: older age, mucinous adenocarcinoma, lymphatic invasion, advanced stage, high TN stage, MSI-H status, absence of polyps, and poor prognosis. GO enrichment linked SPP1 to extracellular matrix organization, cell adhesion, immune response, inflammation, and receptor binding. KEGG analysis showed enrichment in HIV-1 infection pathways. However, overall SPP1 expression did not significantly differ between HIV-positive and HIV-negative CRC tissues. Diffuse SPP1 protein expression was noted in an HIV-positive signet-ring cell carcinoma.Discussion SPP1 is a pivotal driver of CRC metastasis and immune regulation in the tumor microenvironment, and is associated with aggressive disease and poor outcomes. It shows strong potential as a prognostic biomarker. While HIV status did not broadly alter SPP1 expression, its specific pattern in certain HIV-associated carcinomas requires further study.Conclusion SPP1 critically mediates metastasis and immune regulation in CRC and independently predicts poor survival. Its prognostic value is confirmed, warranting investigation into its role in specific HIV-related carcinomas.
BACKGROUND:We aimed to determine the prevalence and diversity of dermatoses in HIV infected patients, and to compare alterations of skin lesion characteristics with the past literature. METHODS:This retrospective, cross-sectional, single-center study was conducted on patients who were admitted to Şanlıurfa Training and Research Hospital between January 2020 and April 2023 with a diagnosis of HIV infection. Patients, whose dermatological examination had been performed, were included in the study. RESULTS:Out of 144 individuals included in the study, 84.7% of them were male, and the median age was 34.5 (18-75). The prevalence of skin disorders among patients was found to be 57.6%. The most frequently dermatoses were condylomata acuminata (39.8%), telogen effluvium (16.9%), and scabies (9.6%). The frequency of condylomata acuminata and scabies was significantly higher in those with a history of homosexual intercourse. The number of skin findings increased as the CD4 count decreased, but the difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION:The pattern of HIV/AIDS-related skin disorders has transitioned during ART development; while the findings triggered by immunosuppression decreased, other sexually transmitted infections-related dermatoses and ART-related conditions dominated. Although dermatosis prevalence appears reduced in the ART era, HIV remains linked to a wide range of dermatological manifestations. This study shows that over half of patients still experience skin findings, underscoring the continued importance of dermatological assessment in the comprehensive care of people living with HIV.
Malaria and HIV remain two of the most serious public health threats in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), where both infections occur at disproportionately high levels. Their co-occurrence within the same populations presents a complex clinical and epidemiological challenge that con-tributes substantially to morbidity and mortality across the region. This review examines current evidence on the epidemiology of malaria and HIV co-infection in SSA, with particular attention to key risk factors and the health outcomes associated with dual infection. It also evaluates chal-lenges in the clinical management of co-infected individuals, including diagnostic limitations, treatment interactions, and health system constraints. Evidence from recent studies indicates that closer coordination of malaria and HIV services may improve patient outcomes while increasing the efficiency of health delivery systems. Continued progress in diagnostic capacity, antimalarial therapies, and antiretroviral treatment, alongside improvements in health infrastructure, will be important for addressing this dual disease burden. International health initiatives and collabora-tive research programs may further strengthen integrated approaches and expand regional capac-ity for surveillance and treatment. Community engagement and targeted health education also play a critical role in encouraging timely care seeking and reducing stigma related to HIV infec-tion. This review identifies persistent gaps in surveillance systems, clinical management, and in-tegrated control strategies for malaria and HIV co-infection in SSA. Addressing these gaps will be important for informing future research priorities and supporting public health policies aimed at reducing the burden of both diseases in the region.
HIV/AIDS constitutes a significant global health challenge, impacting more than 38 million individuals across the world, and continues to put pressure on healthcare systems, especially within low- and middle-income nations. Despite significant progress in Antiretroviral Therapy (ART), challenging obstacles remain, including delayed diagnoses, poor treatment adherence, and the emergence of drug resistance. This review investigates the transformative prospects presented by Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and Deep Learning (DL) to offer new aspects in HIV/AIDS prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, highlighting how these technologies can facilitate early detection, optimize personalized therapeutic strategies, and expedite drug discovery or repurposing. By combining diverse ML methodologies such as supervised, unsupervised, and reinforcement Learning Model (LM), alongside DL frameworks that include convolutional and recurrent neural networks, recent investigations have realized enhancements in the accuracy of diagnose, real-time monitoring, and personalized therapeutic approaches. Furthermore, emerging innovations such as pharmacogenomics-driven modeling, digital twin technology, and AI-powered virtual screening platforms are set to significantly expedite the identification of novel antiviral agents while optimizing ART regimen selection. These advancements improve patient-specific outcomes and contribute to extensive public health strategies by facilitating predictive epidemiological modeling, forecasting transmission dynamics, and optimizing resource allocation in areas of high-burden settings. By matching state-of-the-art computational techniques with clinical and public health methodologies, this review highlights the profound potential of AI-driven interventions to substitute more effective, equitable, and adaptable responses in the global effort against HIV/AIDS. Ultimately, the exploitation of AI and ML methodologies presents a viable pathway toward reconciling existing healthcare disparities and shaping a future characterized by precision medicine in HIV/AIDS management.
INTRODUCTION:While HIV infection damages red blood cells and rapid hemoglobin drops are strongly associated with disease progression, it is unclear whether red blood cells can have an impact on immune reconstitution following long-term highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). METHODS:We collected and analyzed data on 75 confirmed HIV cases in Wenzhou between January 2 and October 31, 2017. The sample size of 75 patients was determined by the total number of eligible ART-naïve individuals available at our center during the enrollment period, reflecting a realistic recruitment scenario for this preliminary single-center study. HIV patients were classified as the immune-reconstitution-successful group (IRSG) or the immune-reconstitution-failed group (IRFG) based on their CD4+ T cell count at two years on HAART. The parameters of red blood cells were determined and compared between the two groups previously described. Dynamic monitoring of lymphocytic subsets was conducted in HIV-positive patients receiving HAART. RESULTS:When compared to patients with IRSG, patients with IRFG have lower hemoglobin, red blood cell count, and hematocrit levels (all P values <0.01). After adjusting for gender and age, the odds ratio for long-term HAART efficacy was 10.971 (p=0.001). There was a positive correlation between red blood cell counts and CD4+ T cell counts in male HIV patients (r=0.496, p<0.001). The area under the curve of red blood cell count in male HIV patients was 0.791 (p values<0.001). The cut-off value of red blood cell count on male HIV patients was 5.03×1012/L. DISCUSSION:These findings suggest that pre-treatment red blood cell count may serve as a simple and accessible predictor of long-term immune reconstitution in HIV patients, particularly in males. The association aligns with previous reports linking anemia to poorer HIV outcomes, and supports the potential role of red blood cells in immune regulation. However, validation in larger, more diverse cohorts and with contemporary antiretroviral regimens is warranted. CONCLUSIONS:Patients with a low red blood cell count before treatment had a lower CD4+ T cell count and a higher level of immune activation than those with a high red blood cell count. The red blood cell count before treatment may be associated with long-term HAART efficacy.
INTRODUCTION:HIV-HBV coinfection is common among individuals living with HIV; therefore, hepatitis B vaccination is recommended. However, vaccine response rates in people living with HIV are lower than those observed in the healthy population. The aim of this study was to determine HBV vaccination rates and identify risk factors affecting vaccine response in people living with HIV. MATERIALS AND METHODS:This multicenter, observational, retrospective study included patients over 18 years of age who were diagnosed with HIV infection and followed for at least six months between January 2018 and January 2024. Patients were screened for HBV using HBsAg, Anti- HBc IgG, and Anti-HBs serology, and Anti-HBs levels were measured at least 4-8 weeks after completion of the HBV vaccination schedule. RESULTS:Of 811 people living with HIV, 274 met the inclusion criteria. The median age was 37.5 years (range: 18-75), and 85% were male. The hepatitis B vaccination rate in this cohort was 33.7%. Following the HBV vaccination schedule, vaccine response (Anti-HBs ≥10 IU/L) was observed in 73.4% of individuals. Hypertension and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) were identified as independent risk factors affecting vaccine response (p = 0.016 and p = 0.026, respectively). CONCLUSION:Vaccine response was found to be lower in individuals with hypertension and COPD. These factors should be considered when administering the hepatitis B vaccine to people living with HIV to improve immunization outcomes.
