HIV and Co-infections: Updates and Insights, 2nd Edition

A special issue of Viruses (ISSN 1999-4915). This special issue belongs to the section "Human Virology and Viral Diseases".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 January 2024) | Viewed by 6569

Special Issue Editor


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Guest Editor
Clinic of Infectious Diseases, University of Bari, 70121 Bari, Italy
Interests: HIV; tuberculosis; NTM; malaria; antimicrobial resistance; HCV; HBV; SARS CoV2; COVID-19; infectious diseases
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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Co-infections are frequent in HIV patients; some of them may be AIDS-defining, while others share the same underlying virus mechanism. Some may be asymptomatic, causing or influencing HIV illness in a minor way. HIV co-infections with bacterial, viral, or parasitic microorganisms, on the other hand, may affect the natural history of HIV infection and vice versa.

This call for papers on this issue aims to provide new insights into viral, bacterial, and parasitical co-infections in patients living with HIV, in addition to their features, the interactions between the co-infecting agents, and the effect of co-infections on the natural history and host immune response. In addition, fresh epidemiological data on such diseases are also of interest, as are unique ways to improve the management of infected individuals. In addition, manuscripts covering the following areas of interest are welcome:

  • Sexually transmitted co-infections in HIV patients;
  • Tuberculosis and nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) in HIV patients;
  • Viral pneumonia and SARS-CoV-2 interstitial pneumonia in HIV patients;
  • HIV and malaria;
  • Hepatitis and HIV;
  • New therapeutic findings;
  • Drug–drug interaction;
  • HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis.

Prof. Dr. Francesco Di Gennaro
Guest Editor

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Keywords

  • HIV
  • co-infection
  • TB
  • HCV
  • HBV
  • AIDS

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Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

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15 pages, 976 KiB  
Article
Does the Recovery of Respiratory Viruses Impact Pulmonary Function at Baseline and 1-, 6-, and 12-Month Follow-Up in People Living with HIV and Pneumonia?
by Iván Arturo Rodríguez-Sabogal, Ruth Cabrera, Diana Marin, Lucelly Lopez, Yudy Aguilar, Gustavo Gomez, Katherine Peña-Valencia, Will Riaño, Lázaro Vélez, Yoav Keynan and Zulma Vanessa Rueda
Viruses 2024, 16(3), 344; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16030344 - 23 Feb 2024
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Abstract
The frequency of respiratory viruses in people living with HIV (PLHIV) and their impact on lung function remain unclear. We aimed to determine the frequency of respiratory viruses in bronchoalveolar lavage and induced sputum samples in PLHIV and correlate their presence with lung [...] Read more.
The frequency of respiratory viruses in people living with HIV (PLHIV) and their impact on lung function remain unclear. We aimed to determine the frequency of respiratory viruses in bronchoalveolar lavage and induced sputum samples in PLHIV and correlate their presence with lung function. A prospective cohort of adults hospitalized in Medellín between September 2016 and December 2018 included three groups: group 1 = people diagnosed with HIV and a diagnosis of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP), group 2 = HIV, and group 3 = CAP. People were followed up with at months 1, 6, and 12. Clinical, microbiological, and spirometric data were collected. Respiratory viruses were detected by multiplex RT-PCR. Sixty-five patients were included. At least 1 respiratory virus was identified in 51.9%, 45.1%, and 57.1% of groups 1, 2 and 3, respectively. Among these, 89% of respiratory viruses were detected with another pathogen, mainly Mycobacterium tuberculosis (40.7%) and Pneumocystis jirovecii (22.2%). The most frequent respiratory virus was rhinovirus (24/65, 37%). On admission, 30.4% of group 1, 16.6% of group 2, and 50% of group 3 had airflow limitation, with alteration in forced expiratory volume at first second in both groups with pneumonia compared to HIV. Respiratory viruses are frequent in people diagnosed with HIV, generally coexisting with other pathogens. Pulmonary function on admission was affected in patients with pneumonia, improving significantly in the 1st, 6th, and 12th months after CAP onset. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue HIV and Co-infections: Updates and Insights, 2nd Edition)
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10 pages, 825 KiB  
Article
Temporal Trends in Syphilis Incidence among Men with HIV in Busan, Korea, 2005–2022: A Retrospective Cohort Study
by Sun Hee Lee, Jeong Eun Lee, Soon Ok Lee, Shinwon Lee, Woo Seog Ko, Hyung-Hoi Kim, Kyung-Hwa Shin, Jin Suk Kang and Hyunjin Son
Viruses 2024, 16(2), 265; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16020265 - 07 Feb 2024
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Abstract
We aimed to assess the temporal trends of incident syphilis and its associated risk factors among men with HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) in Korea during the COVID-19 pandemic. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of men with HIV attending an HIV clinic in [...] Read more.
We aimed to assess the temporal trends of incident syphilis and its associated risk factors among men with HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) in Korea during the COVID-19 pandemic. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of men with HIV attending an HIV clinic in Korea between 2005 and 2022. Of 767 men with HIV, 499 were included and contributed 3220 person-years (PY) of the observation period. Eighty-two patients were diagnosed with incident syphilis, with an overall incidence of 2.55/100 PY (95% confidence interval [CI] 20.56–31.53). The incidence of syphilis per 100 PY gradually decreased from 2.43 (0.79–7.42) in 2005–2007 to 1.85 (1.08–3.17) in 2014–2016; however, it increased to 3.0 (1.99–4.53) in 2017–2019, and further to 3.33 (2.26–4.89) in 2020–2022. A multivariate analysis identified young age (≤30 years versus >50, adjusted HR 6.27, 95% CI 2.38–16.56, p < 0.001), treponemal test positive at baseline (2.33, 1.48–3.67, p < 0.001), men who have sex with men (2.36, 1.34–4.16, p = 0.003), and history of incarceration (2.62, 1.21–5.67, p = 0.015) as risk factors for incident syphilis. Recently, syphilis incidence in men with HIV has increased in Korea, especially in young patients and at-risk groups, highlighting the need for enhanced regular screening and targeted behavioral interventions among these populations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue HIV and Co-infections: Updates and Insights, 2nd Edition)
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11 pages, 1931 KiB  
Article
Interplay between HIV and Human Pegivirus (HPgV) Load in Co-Infected Patients: Insights from Prevalence and Genotype Analysis
by Muammer Osman Köksal, Martin Pirkl, Kutay Sarsar, Mehmet Ilktaç, Gibran Horemheb-Rubio, Murat Yaman, Sevim Meşe, Haluk Eraksoy, Baki Akgül and Ali Ağaçfidan
Viruses 2024, 16(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16010005 - 19 Dec 2023
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Abstract
Human pegivirus (HPgV) is transmitted through sexual or parenteral exposure and is common among patients receiving blood products. HPgV is associated with lower levels of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) RNA and better survival among HIV-infected patients. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence [...] Read more.
Human pegivirus (HPgV) is transmitted through sexual or parenteral exposure and is common among patients receiving blood products. HPgV is associated with lower levels of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) RNA and better survival among HIV-infected patients. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of HPgV and determine its subtypes in HIV-infected individuals living in Istanbul, which has the highest rate of HIV infection in Türkiye. Total RNA extraction from plasma, cDNA synthesis, and nested PCR were performed for HPgV on plasma samples taken from 351 HIV-1-infected patients. The HPgV viral load was quantified on HPgV-positive samples. HPgV genotyping was performed by sequencing the corresponding amplicons. In the present study, the overall prevalence of HPgV RNA in HIV-infected patients was 27.3%. HPgV subtypes 1, 2a, and 2b were found, with subtype 2a being the most frequent (91.6%). Statistical analysis of HIV-1 viral load on HPgV viral load showed an opposing correlation between HIV-1 and HPgV loads. In conclusion, these data show that HPgV infection is common among HIV-positive individuals in Istanbul, Türkiye. Further comprehensive studies are needed to clarify both the cellular and molecular pathways of these two infections and to provide more information on the effect of HPgV on the course of the disease in HIV-infected individuals. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue HIV and Co-infections: Updates and Insights, 2nd Edition)
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10 pages, 235 KiB  
Article
Varicella-Zoster Virus Reactivation and Increased Vascular Risk in People Living with HIV: Data from a Retrospective Cohort Study
by Deborah Fiordelisi, Mariacristina Poliseno, Nicolo’ De Gennaro, Eugenio Milano, Carmen Rita Santoro, Francesco Vladimiro Segala, Carlo Felice Franco, Giorgia Manco Cesari, Luisa Frallonardo, Giacomo Guido, Giuliana Metrangolo, Greta Romita, Francesco Di Gennaro and Annalisa Saracino
Viruses 2023, 15(11), 2217; https://doi.org/10.3390/v15112217 - 06 Nov 2023
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Abstract
Background: The increased vascular risk associated with varicella–zoster virus (VZV) reactivation is extensively established in the general population. This retrospective cohort study investigates whether this observation holds for People Living with HIV (PLWH), a group already confronting heightened cardiovascular risk. Methods: Among PLWH [...] Read more.
Background: The increased vascular risk associated with varicella–zoster virus (VZV) reactivation is extensively established in the general population. This retrospective cohort study investigates whether this observation holds for People Living with HIV (PLWH), a group already confronting heightened cardiovascular risk. Methods: Among PLWH who initiated antiretroviral therapy (ART) at our center and have been under our care for >24 months since 1st January 2005, individuals with a history of herpes zoster (HZ) were identified, and their features were compared with those of PLWH with no history of HZ. The prevalence of ischemic events (deep venous thrombosis, stroke, and acute myocardial infarction) was calculated and compared using the chi-square test. An odds ratio (O.R.) and a 95% confidence interval (C.I.) for ischemic events following HZ were evaluated through univariate and multivariate logistic regression. Results: Overall, 45/581 PLWH reported HZ. Ischemic events followed HZ significantly more often than not (13% vs. 5%, p = 0.01). Positive serology for both VZV and HZ correlated with increased ischemic risk (O.R. 4.01, 95% C.I. 1.38–11.6, p = 0.01 and O.R. 3.14, 95% C.I. 1.12–7.68, p = 0.02, respectively), though chronic heart disease demonstrated stronger predictive value in multivariate analysis(O.R. 8.68, 95% C.I. 2.49–29.50, p = 0.001). Conclusions: VZV potentially exacerbates vascular risk in PLWH, particularly in the presence of other predisposing factors. Further research is needed to confirm our data. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue HIV and Co-infections: Updates and Insights, 2nd Edition)

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15 pages, 1170 KiB  
Brief Report
HBcAb Positivity as a Risk Factor for Missing HIV RNA Undetectability after the 3TC+DTG Switch
by Vincenzo Malagnino, Tiziana Mulas, Elisabetta Teti, Monica Basso, Mario Giobbia, Nicholas Geremia, Giuliana Battagin, Yasmine Abi Aad, Jean-Paul Vincensini, Marco Iannetta, Saverio Giuseppe Parisi, Loredana Sarmati and Karine Lacombe
Viruses 2024, 16(3), 348; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16030348 - 23 Feb 2024
Viewed by 624
Abstract
Hepatitis B Core antibody (HBcAb) positivity is the surrogate marker of hepatitis B occult infection. This condition is not a contraindication for switching to two-drug (2DR) antiretroviral therapy; however, the removal of tenofovir may contribute to poor control of HBV replication. A multicentre [...] Read more.
Hepatitis B Core antibody (HBcAb) positivity is the surrogate marker of hepatitis B occult infection. This condition is not a contraindication for switching to two-drug (2DR) antiretroviral therapy; however, the removal of tenofovir may contribute to poor control of HBV replication. A multicentre retrospective cohort study investigated the impact of HBcAb positivity on HIV control in patients switching to a 2DR with Lamivudine and Dolutegravir (3TC-DTG). In this study, a comparison analysis was conducted between HBcAb-positive and -negative PLWH regarding HIV-RNA suppression, considering: (1): Target Not Detected (TND) < 20 cp/mL; (2) Target Detected (TD) < 20 cp/mL; and (3) Detectable > 20 cp/mL and <50 cp/mL and >50 copies/mL. A total of 267 patients on 2DR with 3TC-DTG were included. In comparison to HBcAb-negative, HBcAb-positive patients were older (45 years [35–54]) and had a lower CD4+ nadir (248 vs. 349 cells/mmc, p = 0.007). No difference in the maintenance of virological suppression was present in the two groups of patients before the switch. Although no patient had an HIV-RNA > 20 cp/mL after the switch, significantly fewer HBcAb-positive compared with -negative subjects resulted in TND at 12, 24, and 36 months after the switch: 52 (69.3%) versus 164 (85.4%), p = 0.004, 50 [72.5%] versus 143 [89.9%], p = 0.001, and 30 [66.7%] versus 90 [92.8%], p = 0.001, respectively. HBcAb positivity is associated with an increased risk of suboptimal HIV suppression during the 36 months after 3TC/DTG simplification. This finding reinforces the relevance of the OBI condition in PLWH and raises the issue of careful virological monitoring of such cases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue HIV and Co-infections: Updates and Insights, 2nd Edition)
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6 pages, 230 KiB  
Brief Report
Low Hepatitis C Virus Prevalence among Men Who Have Sex with Men Attending Public Health Services in The Netherlands
by Stephanie Popping, Sabine Haspels, Hannelore M. Gotz, W. C. J. P. M. van der Meijden, Mark van den Elshout and Bart J. Rijnders
Viruses 2023, 15(12), 2317; https://doi.org/10.3390/v15122317 - 25 Nov 2023
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Abstract
The hepatitis C virus (HCV) prevalence is high among men who have sex with men (MSM) with HIV in the Netherlands. Large reductions in HCV incidence among MSM with HIV, however, have occurred since treatment with direct-acting antivirals. Over the years, a broader [...] Read more.
The hepatitis C virus (HCV) prevalence is high among men who have sex with men (MSM) with HIV in the Netherlands. Large reductions in HCV incidence among MSM with HIV, however, have occurred since treatment with direct-acting antivirals. Over the years, a broader understanding of the HCV epidemic has shown that HCV infections are not solely restricted to MSM with HIV, but they also occur among HIV-negative MSM. Currently, HCV testing among HIV-negative MSM is only provided for PrEP users and is not part of routine sexually transmitted infection (STI) screening among HIV-negative MSM who are not using PrEP. In this study, we screened 1885 HIV-negative MSM who did not participate in a PrEP program, with over 1966 STI screening visits at four different public health clinic sites. Among the 1885 MSM, only one person had a new HCV infection, resulting in a 0.05% (95% confidence interval 0.0–0.3) incidence. Based on our findings, we can conclude that systematic HCV testing at STI clinics may not yield significant benefits for this particular population. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue HIV and Co-infections: Updates and Insights, 2nd Edition)
9 pages, 544 KiB  
Brief Report
Atypical Hepatitis B Virus Serology Profile—Hepatitis B Surface Antigen-Positive/Hepatitis B Core Antibody-Negative—In Hepatitis B Virus/HIV Coinfected Individuals in Botswana
by Bonolo B. Phinius, Motswedi Anderson, Margaret Mokomane, Irene Gobe, Wonderful T. Choga, Tsholofelo Ratsoma, Basetsana Phakedi, Gorata Mpebe, Doreen Ditshwanelo, Rosemary Musonda, Joseph Makhema, Sikhulile Moyo and Simani Gaseitsiwe
Viruses 2023, 15(7), 1544; https://doi.org/10.3390/v15071544 - 13 Jul 2023
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Abstract
(1) Background: Hepatitis B core antibodies (anti-HBc) are a marker of hepatitis B virus (HBV) exposure; hence, a normal HBV serology profile is characterized by HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) and anti-HBc positivity. However, atypical HBV serologies occur, and we aimed to determine the [...] Read more.
(1) Background: Hepatitis B core antibodies (anti-HBc) are a marker of hepatitis B virus (HBV) exposure; hence, a normal HBV serology profile is characterized by HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) and anti-HBc positivity. However, atypical HBV serologies occur, and we aimed to determine the prevalence of an atypical profile (HBsAg+/anti-HBc-) in a cohort of people with HIV-1 (PWH) in Botswana. (2) Methods: Plasma samples from an HIV-1 cohort in Botswana (2013–2018) were used. The samples were screened for HBsAg and anti-HBc. Next-generation sequencing was performed using the GridION platform. The Wilcoxon rank-sum test and Chi-squared tests were used for the comparison of continuous and categorical variables, respectively. (3) Results: HBsAg+/anti-HBc- prevalence was 13.7% (95% CI 10.1–18.4) (36/263). HBsAg+/anti-HBc- participants were significantly younger (p < 0.001), female (p = 0.02) and ART-naïve (p = 0.04) and had a detectable HIV viral load (p = 0.02). There was no statistically significant difference in the number of mutations observed in participants with HBsAg+/anti-HBc- vs. those with HBsAg+/anti-HBc+ serology. (4) Conclusions: We report a high HBsAg+/anti-HBc- atypical serology profile prevalence among PWH in Botswana. We caution against HBV-testing algorithms that consider only anti-HBc+ samples for HBsAg testing, as they are likely to underestimate HBV prevalence. Studies to elucidate the mechanisms and implications of this profile are warranted. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue HIV and Co-infections: Updates and Insights, 2nd Edition)
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