RESUMO Objetivo: Estimar as prevalências e os fatores associados à detecção de Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) e Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) em mulheres trans e travestis em cinco capitais brasileiras. Métodos: Os dados vieram de um estudo transversal, realizado entre 2019 e 2021, com pessoas recrutadas por RDS (respondent driven sampling) em São Paulo, Campo Grande, Manaus, Porto Alegre e Salvador. Analisou-se a detecção de CT e NG, em três sítios de coleta (anorretal, orofaríngeo e uretral). Para identificação dos fatores associados empregaram-se modelos logísticos com efeitos mistos. Resultados: Forneceram material biológico para detecção dessas infecções 1.297 participantes recrutadas. As prevalências de CT, NG e coinfecção foram, respectivamente, 11,5, 13,3 e 3,6%. Foram independentemente associados à detecção para CT: trabalho sexual no passado (odds ratio — OR=1,73; intervalos de confiança para 95% — IC95% 1,02–2,95), no momento atual (OR=2,13; IC95% 1,23–3,69) e como atividade parcial (OR=2,75; IC95% 1,60–4,75) e uso de drogas injetáveis na vida (OR=3,54; IC95% 1,49–8,40). Para NG: uso de drogas injetáveis na vida (OR=1,91; IC95% 1,28–2,84) e orientação sexual – heterossexuais (OR=3,44; IC95% 1,35–8,82), homossexuais (OR=5,49; IC95% 1,89–15,97) e bissexuais (OR=3,21; IC95% 1,06–9,68). Para coinfecção: uso de drogas nos últimos 12 meses (OR=2,34; IC95% 1,10–5,00). Ser mais jovem foi associada a todos os desfechos investigados. Conclusão: As prevalências estimadas de CT, NG e de coinfecção foram desproporcionalmente mais elevadas entre as mulheres trans e travestis se comparadas à população geral, especialmente entre as mais jovens, que exerciam trabalho sexual e faziam uso de drogas.

ABSTRACT Objective: To estimate the prevalence and factors associated with the detection of Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) in transgender women and travestis in five Brazilian capitals. Methods: Data were obtained from a cross-sectional study conducted between 2019 and 2021, with participants recruited through Respondent Driven Sampling in São Paulo, Campo Grande, Manaus, Porto Alegre and Salvador. Detection of CT and NG was analyzed at three collection sites (anorectal, oropharyngeal and urethral). Mixed logistic regression models were employed to identify associated factors. Results: A total of 1,297 recruited participants provided biological material to detect these infections. The prevalences of CT, NG and coinfection were 11.5%, 13.3% and 3.6%, respectively. Independent associations with CT infections included past (OR=1.73; 95%CI 1.02–2.95), current (OR=2.13; 95%CI 1.23–3.69), and part-time sex work (OR=2.75; 95%CI 1.60–4.75), as well as lifetime injectable drug use (OR=3.54; 95%CI 1.49–8.40). For NG, associations were observed with lifetime injectable drug use (OR=1.91; 95%CI 1.28–2.84) and sexual orientation, including heterosexual (OR=3.44; 95%CI 1.35–8.82), homosexual (OR=5.49; 95%CI 1.89–15.97), and bisexual (OR=3.21; 95%CI 1.06–9.68). Coinfection was associated with use of illicit drugs in the last 12 months (OR=2.34, 95%CI 1.10–5.00), and younger age was associated with all investigated outcomes. Conclusion: Estimated prevalences of CT, NG and co-infection were higher among transgender women and travestis compared to the general population, particularly among younger, individuals engaged in sex work and illicit drug use.

ABSTRACT Objective: To estimate the prevalence and factors associated with the detection of Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) in transgender women and travestis in five Brazilian capitals. Methods: Data were obtained from a cross-sectional study conducted between 2019 and 2021, with participants recruited through Respondent Driven Sampling in São Paulo, Campo Grande, Manaus, Porto Alegre and Salvador. Detection of CT and NG was analyzed at three collection sites (anorectal, oropharyngeal and urethral). Mixed logistic regression models were employed to identify associated factors. Results: A total of 1,297 recruited participants provided biological material to detect these infections. The prevalences of CT, NG and coinfection were 11.5%, 13.3% and 3.6%, respectively. Independent associations with CT infections included past (OR=1.73; 95%CI 1.02–2.95), current (OR=2.13; 95%CI 1.23–3.69), and part-time sex work (OR=2.75; 95%CI 1.60–4.75), as well as lifetime injectable drug use (OR=3.54; 95%CI 1.49–8.40). For NG, associations were observed with lifetime injectable drug use (OR=1.91; 95%CI 1.28–2.84) and sexual orientation, including heterosexual (OR=3.44; 95%CI 1.35–8.82), homosexual (OR=5.49; 95%CI 1.89–15.97), and bisexual (OR=3.21; 95%CI 1.06–9.68). Coinfection was associated with use of illicit drugs in the last 12 months (OR=2.34, 95%CI 1.10–5.00), and younger age was associated with all investigated outcomes. Conclusion: Estimated prevalences of CT, NG and co-infection were higher among transgender women and travestis compared to the general population, particularly among younger, individuals engaged in sex work and illicit drug use. Objective (CT (NG capitals Methods crosssectional cross sectional 201 2021 Paulo Grande Manaus Salvador anorectal, anorectal (anorectal urethral. urethral . urethral) Results 1297 1 297 1,29 115 11 5 11.5% 133 13 3 13.3 36 6 3.6% respectively OR=1.73 OR173 OR 73 (OR=1.73 95CI CI 95 1.02–2.95, 102295 1.02–2.95 , 02 2 1.02–2.95) OR=2.13 OR213 (OR=2.13 1.23–3.69, 123369 1.23–3.69 23 69 1.23–3.69) parttime part time OR=2.75 OR275 75 (OR=2.75 1.60–4.75, 160475 1.60–4.75 60 4 1.60–4.75) OR=3.54 OR354 54 (OR=3.54 1.49–8.40. 149840 1.49–8.40 49 8 40 1.49–8.40) OR=1.91 OR191 91 (OR=1.91 1.28–2.84 128284 28 84 orientation OR=3.44 OR344 44 (OR=3.44 1.35–8.82, 135882 1.35–8.82 35 82 1.35–8.82) OR=5.49 OR549 (OR=5.49 1.89–15.97, 1891597 1.89–15.97 89 15 97 1.89–15.97) OR=3.21 OR321 21 (OR=3.21 1.06–9.68. 106968 1.06–9.68 06 9 68 1.06–9.68) OR=2.34, OR234 34 (OR=2.34 1.10–5.00, 110500 1.10–5.00 10 00 1.10–5.00) outcomes Conclusion co infection population 20 202 129 29 1,2 11.5 13. 3.6 OR=1.7 OR17 7 (OR=1.7 10229 1.02–2.9 0 OR=2.1 OR21 (OR=2.1 12336 1.23–3.6 OR=2.7 OR27 (OR=2.7 16047 1.60–4.7 OR=3.5 OR35 (OR=3.5 14984 1.49–8.4 OR=1.9 OR19 (OR=1.9 1.28–2.8 12828 OR=3.4 OR34 (OR=3.4 13588 1.35–8.8 OR=5.4 OR54 (OR=5.4 189159 1.89–15.9 OR=3.2 OR32 (OR=3.2 10696 1.06–9.6 OR=2.34 OR23 (OR=2.3 11050 1.10–5.0 1, 11. 3. OR=1. OR1 (OR=1. 1022 1.02–2. OR=2. OR2 (OR=2. 1233 1.23–3. 1604 1.60–4. OR=3. OR3 (OR=3. 1498 1.49–8. 1.28–2. 1282 1358 1.35–8. OR=5. OR5 (OR=5. 18915 1.89–15. 1069 1.06–9. OR=2.3 1105 1.10–5. OR=1 (OR=1 102 1.02–2 OR=2 (OR=2 123 1.23–3 160 1.60–4 OR=3 (OR=3 149 1.49–8 1.28–2 128 135 1.35–8 OR=5 (OR=5 1891 1.89–15 106 1.06–9 110 1.10–5 OR= (OR= 1.02– 1.23– 16 1.60– 14 1.49– 1.28– 1.35– 189 1.89–1 1.06– 1.10– (OR 1.02 1.23 1.60 1.49 1.28 1.35 18 1.89– 1.06 1.10 1.0 1.2 1.6 1.4 1.3 1.89 1.1 1. 1.8

RESUMO Objetivo: Estimar as prevalências e os fatores associados à detecção de Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) e Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) em mulheres trans e travestis em cinco capitais brasileiras. Métodos: Os dados vieram de um estudo transversal, realizado entre 2019 e 2021, com pessoas recrutadas por RDS (respondent driven sampling) em São Paulo, Campo Grande, Manaus, Porto Alegre e Salvador. Analisou-se a detecção de CT e NG, em três sítios de coleta (anorretal, orofaríngeo e uretral). Para identificação dos fatores associados empregaram-se modelos logísticos com efeitos mistos. Resultados: Forneceram material biológico para detecção dessas infecções 1.297 participantes recrutadas. As prevalências de CT, NG e coinfecção foram, respectivamente, 11,5, 13,3 e 3,6%. Foram independentemente associados à detecção para CT: trabalho sexual no passado (odds ratio — OR=1,73; intervalos de confiança para 95% — IC95% 1,02–2,95), no momento atual (OR=2,13; IC95% 1,23–3,69) e como atividade parcial (OR=2,75; IC95% 1,60–4,75) e uso de drogas injetáveis na vida (OR=3,54; IC95% 1,49–8,40). Para NG: uso de drogas injetáveis na vida (OR=1,91; IC95% 1,28–2,84) e orientação sexual – heterossexuais (OR=3,44; IC95% 1,35–8,82), homossexuais (OR=5,49; IC95% 1,89–15,97) e bissexuais (OR=3,21; IC95% 1,06–9,68). Para coinfecção: uso de drogas nos últimos 12 meses (OR=2,34; IC95% 1,10–5,00). Ser mais jovem foi associada a todos os desfechos investigados. Conclusão: As prevalências estimadas de CT, NG e de coinfecção foram desproporcionalmente mais elevadas entre as mulheres trans e travestis se comparadas à população geral, especialmente entre as mais jovens, que exerciam trabalho sexual e faziam uso de drogas. Objetivo (CT (NG brasileiras Métodos transversal 201 2021 respondent sampling Paulo Grande Manaus Salvador Analisouse Analisou anorretal, anorretal (anorretal uretral. uretral . uretral) empregaramse empregaram mistos Resultados 1297 1 297 1.29 respectivamente 115 11 5 11,5 133 13 3 13, 36 6 3,6% odds OR=1,73 OR173 OR 73 95 IC95 IC 1,02–2,95, 102295 1,02–2,95 , 02 2 1,02–2,95) OR=2,13 OR213 (OR=2,13 1,23–3,69 123369 23 69 OR=2,75 OR275 75 (OR=2,75 1,60–4,75 160475 60 4 OR=3,54 OR354 54 (OR=3,54 1,49–8,40. 149840 1,49–8,40 49 8 40 1,49–8,40) OR=1,91 OR191 91 (OR=1,91 1,28–2,84 128284 28 84 OR=3,44 OR344 44 (OR=3,44 1,35–8,82, 135882 1,35–8,82 35 82 1,35–8,82) OR=5,49 OR549 (OR=5,49 1,89–15,97 1891597 89 15 97 OR=3,21 OR321 21 (OR=3,21 1,06–9,68. 106968 1,06–9,68 06 9 68 1,06–9,68) OR=2,34 OR234 34 (OR=2,34 1,10–5,00. 110500 1,10–5,00 10 00 1,10–5,00) investigados Conclusão geral jovens 20 202 129 29 1.2 11, 3,6 OR=1,7 OR17 7 IC9 10229 1,02–2,9 0 OR=2,1 OR21 (OR=2,1 1,23–3,6 12336 OR=2,7 OR27 (OR=2,7 1,60–4,7 16047 OR=3,5 OR35 (OR=3,5 14984 1,49–8,4 OR=1,9 OR19 (OR=1,9 1,28–2,8 12828 OR=3,4 OR34 (OR=3,4 13588 1,35–8,8 OR=5,4 OR54 (OR=5,4 1,89–15,9 189159 OR=3,2 OR32 (OR=3,2 10696 1,06–9,6 OR=2,3 OR23 (OR=2,3 11050 1,10–5,0 1. 3, OR=1, OR1 1022 1,02–2, OR=2, OR2 (OR=2, 1,23–3, 1233 1,60–4, 1604 OR=3, OR3 (OR=3, 1498 1,49–8, (OR=1, 1,28–2, 1282 1358 1,35–8, OR=5, OR5 (OR=5, 1,89–15, 18915 1069 1,06–9, 1105 1,10–5, OR=1 102 1,02–2 OR=2 (OR=2 1,23–3 123 1,60–4 160 OR=3 (OR=3 149 1,49–8 (OR=1 1,28–2 128 135 1,35–8 OR=5 (OR=5 1,89–15 1891 106 1,06–9 110 1,10–5 OR= 1,02– (OR= 1,23– 1,60– 16 14 1,49– 1,28– 1,35– 1,89–1 189 1,06– 1,10– 1,02 (OR 1,23 1,60 1,49 1,28 1,35 1,89– 18 1,06 1,10 1,0 1,2 1,6 1,4 1,3 1,89 1,1 1, 1,8

ABSTRACT Objective To investigate the prognostic significance of thyroid hormone profile in patients hospitalized for decompensated cirrhosis. Subjects and methods Prospective cohort study that included 119 subjects. All subjects were evaluated at admission and followed for 90 days. TSH, fT3, fT4 were measured within 24 hours of hospitalization. Results Higher fT4 and lower fT3 levels were observed among Child-Pugh C patients as compared to Child-Pugh A and B, and in those with acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF). Lower fT3/fT4 ratio was observed in those with ascites, infections, ACLF, and in Child-Pugh C. Ninety-day mortality was 26.9% and it was independently associated with higher Model for End-stage Liver Disease (MELD) and TSH, and lower fT3/fT4 ratio in multivariate analysis. A new prognostic model including MELD, TSH and fT3/fT4 ratio was devised. The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves for MELD, fT3/fT4 ratio, TSH (μIU/mL), and the new model for predicting 90-day mortality were 0.847 ± 0.041, 0.841 ± 0.039, 0.658 ± 0.062, and 0.899 ± 0.031, respectively. The 90-day survival was 31.6% in patients with values of the predictive model ≥ -0.77 and 93.5% for values < -0.77 (P < 0.001). Conclusions Thyroid hormone profile was strongly associated with worse outcomes in patients with cirrhosis and might represent promising prognostic tools that can be incorporated in clinical practice. 11 9 days fT 2 hospitalization ChildPugh Child Pugh B acuteonchronic acute on chronic ACLF. ACLF . (ACLF) fT3fT4 fTfT fT3/fT ascites infections Ninetyday Ninety day 269 26 26.9 Endstage End stage MELD (MELD analysis devised μIU/mL, μIUmL μIU/mL , μIU mL (μIU/mL) 90day 0847 0 847 0.84 0041 041 0.041 0841 841 0039 039 0.039 0658 658 0.65 0062 062 0.062 0899 899 0.89 0031 031 0.031 respectively 316 31 6 31.6 0.77 077 77 -0.7 935 93 5 93.5 P 0.001. 0001 0.001 001 0.001) practice 1 (ACLF fT3fT 26. (μIU/mL 084 84 0.8 004 04 0.04 003 03 0.03 065 65 0.6 006 06 0.06 089 89 3 31. 0.7 07 7 -0. 93. 000 0.00 00 08 8 0. 0.0 -0 -

ABSTRACT Background: Women living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) (WLWH) are more likely to be infected with the oncogenic human papillomavirus (HPV). We assessed the prevalence of high-risk (HR) (16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/58/59/68/73/82), probable high-risk (pHR) (26/53/66), and low-risk (LR) (6/11/40/42/43/44/54/61/70) HPV types and their associated risk factors. Methods: This cross-sectional study of WLWH aged 18-64 years included one laboratory and eight HIV-specialty healthcare facilities in the pilot network. Descriptive statistics were used to assess sociodemographic and behavioral characteristics. Adjusted analyses were conducted to evaluate risk factors associated with HR and/or pHR HPV infection in WLWH. Results: From May/2021 to May/2022, 1,914 (92.5%) WLWH participated in the pilot study and had valid HPV-DNA results of self-collected vaginal samples. The median age of the participants was 45 years, 60.1% had ≥ 9 years of schooling, 80.5% were ≤ 18 years at first sexual intercourse, and 51.7% had > 4 sexual partners throughout life. The prevalence of any HPV type, HR HPV, pHR HPV, and LR HPV was 65.8%, 49.6%, 16.7%, and 40.0%, respectively. Age was inversely associated with pHR and/or HR-HPV (p < 0.001), and education level was inversely associated with HR-HPV (p = 0.003) types. Any HR or pHR was associated with being single (p = 0.029) and exchanging sex for drugs (p = 0.037). Conclusions: The prevalence of HPV, especially HR HPV, among WLWH is high in Brazil, highlighting the need for HPV screening in this population. Self-collection of vaginal samples is an important strategy for increasing testing access. Background HIV (HIV (WLWH HPV. . (HPV) highrisk (HR 16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/58/59/68/73/82, 161831333539455152565859687382 16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/58/59/68/73/82 , 16 31 33 35 39 51 52 56 58 59 68 73 82 (16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/58/59/68/73/82) (pHR 26/53/66, 265366 26/53/66 26 53 66 (26/53/66) lowrisk low (LR 6/11/40/42/43/44/54/61/70 61140424344546170 6 11 40 42 43 44 54 61 70 (6/11/40/42/43/44/54/61/70 Methods crosssectional cross sectional 1864 64 18-6 HIVspecialty specialty network characteristics andor Results May2021 May 2021 May/202 May2022 2022 May/2022 1914 1 914 1,91 92.5% 925 92 5 (92.5% HPVDNA DNA selfcollected self collected 601 60 60.1 schooling 805 80 80.5 intercourse 517 7 51.7 life type 658 65 8 65.8% 496 49 49.6% 167 16.7% 400 0 40.0% respectively HRHPV p 0.001, 0001 0.001 001 0.001) 0.003 0003 003 0.029 0029 029 0.037. 0037 0.037 037 0.037) Conclusions Brazil population Selfcollection Self collection access (HPV 16183133353945515256585968738 16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/58/59/68/73/8 3 (16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/58/59/68/73/82 26536 26/53/6 2 (26/53/66 6/11/40/42/43/44/54/61/7 6114042434454617 (6/11/40/42/43/44/54/61/7 186 18- May202 202 May/20 191 91 1,9 92.5 (92.5 60. 80. 51. 65.8 49.6 16.7 40.0 000 0.00 00 0.02 002 02 0.03 03 1618313335394551525658596873 16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/58/59/68/73/ (16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/58/59/68/73/8 2653 26/53/ (26/53/6 6/11/40/42/43/44/54/61/ 611404243445461 (6/11/40/42/43/44/54/61/ May20 20 May/2 19 1, 92. (92. 65. 49. 16. 40. 0.0 161831333539455152565859687 16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/58/59/68/73 (16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/58/59/68/73/ 265 26/53 (26/53/ 6/11/40/42/43/44/54/61 61140424344546 (6/11/40/42/43/44/54/61 May2 May/ (92 0. 16183133353945515256585968 16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/58/59/68/7 (16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/58/59/68/73 26/5 (26/53 6/11/40/42/43/44/54/6 6114042434454 (6/11/40/42/43/44/54/6 (9 1618313335394551525658596 16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/58/59/68/ (16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/58/59/68/7 26/ (26/5 6/11/40/42/43/44/54/ 611404243445 (6/11/40/42/43/44/54/ ( 161831333539455152565859 16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/58/59/68 (16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/58/59/68/ (26/ 6/11/40/42/43/44/54 61140424344 (6/11/40/42/43/44/54 16183133353945515256585 16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/58/59/6 (16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/58/59/68 (26 6/11/40/42/43/44/5 6114042434 (6/11/40/42/43/44/5 1618313335394551525658 16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/58/59/ (16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/58/59/6 (2 6/11/40/42/43/44/ 611404243 (6/11/40/42/43/44/ 161831333539455152565 16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/58/59 (16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/58/59/ 6/11/40/42/43/44 61140424 (6/11/40/42/43/44 16183133353945515256 16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/58/5 (16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/58/59 6/11/40/42/43/4 6114042 (6/11/40/42/43/4 1618313335394551525 16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/58/ (16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/58/5 6/11/40/42/43/ 611404 (6/11/40/42/43/ 161831333539455152 16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/58 (16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/58/ 6/11/40/42/43 61140 (6/11/40/42/43 16183133353945515 16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/5 (16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/58 6/11/40/42/4 6114 (6/11/40/42/4 1618313335394551 16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/ (16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/5 6/11/40/42/ 611 (6/11/40/42/ 161831333539455 16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56 (16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/ 6/11/40/42 (6/11/40/42 16183133353945 16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/5 (16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56 6/11/40/4 (6/11/40/4 1618313335394 16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/ (16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/5 6/11/40/ (6/11/40/ 161831333539 16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52 (16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/ 6/11/40 (6/11/40 16183133353 16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/5 (16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52 6/11/4 (6/11/4 1618313335 16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/ (16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/5 6/11/ (6/11/ 161831333 16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51 (16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/ 6/11 (6/11 16183133 16/18/31/33/35/39/45/5 (16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51 6/1 (6/1 1618313 16/18/31/33/35/39/45/ (16/18/31/33/35/39/45/5 6/ (6/ 161831 16/18/31/33/35/39/45 (16/18/31/33/35/39/45/ (6 16183 16/18/31/33/35/39/4 (16/18/31/33/35/39/45 1618 16/18/31/33/35/39/ (16/18/31/33/35/39/4 161 16/18/31/33/35/39 (16/18/31/33/35/39/ 16/18/31/33/35/3 (16/18/31/33/35/39 16/18/31/33/35/ (16/18/31/33/35/3 16/18/31/33/35 (16/18/31/33/35/ 16/18/31/33/3 (16/18/31/33/35 16/18/31/33/ (16/18/31/33/3 16/18/31/33 (16/18/31/33/ 16/18/31/3 (16/18/31/33 16/18/31/ (16/18/31/3 16/18/31 (16/18/31/ 16/18/3 (16/18/31 16/18/ (16/18/3 16/18 (16/18/ 16/1 (16/18 16/ (16/1 (16/ (16 (1

Abstract This article addresses human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, one of the topics covered by the Clinical Protocol and Therapeutic Guidelines for Comprehensive Care for People with Sexually Transmitted Infections, published by the Brazilian Ministry of Health. The Protocol and Guidelines have been developed based on scientific evidence and validated in discussions with specialists. This article presents epidemiological and clinical aspects and guidelines for health service managers and health workers about diagnosing and treating people with papillomavirus infection. This theme is a significant public health issue since it is the most prevalent sexually transmitted infection globally, capable of triggering the oncogenic process of cervical cancer and the possibility of anogenital warts. Important information is presented for gaining knowledge about HPV and action strategies for infection prevention and control, provision of quality care, and effective treatment of the disease.

Abstract The recommendations for diagnostic tests for investigating syphilis are part of the Clinical Protocol and Therapeutic Guidelines for Comprehensive Care for People with Sexually Transmitted Infections and the Technical Manual for Syphilis Diagnosis, published by the Brazilian Ministry of Health. These recommendations were developed based on scientific evidence and discussions with a panel of experts. This article presents direct tests to detect Treponema pallidum in lesions and algorithms that combine treponemal and non-treponemal antibody tests to assist in syphilis diagnosis, with the aim of contributing to the efforts of health service managers and health professionals in qualifying health care. The article also covers the use of non-treponemal tests to investigate neurosyphilis and guidelines for interpreting non-treponemal antibody titers in monitoring the treatment and diagnosis of congenital syphilis, as well as prospects for innovations in diagnosis. The critical role of rapid immunochromatographic treponemal tests for public health and for addressing syphilis is also highlighted.

Abstract Background: Chronic prostatitis has been a common disease reported with high frequency in ankylosing spondylitis (AS) even from decades ago. Infectious (Chlamydia trachomatis) or non-infectious (uric acid) prostatitis can hypothetically trigger vertebral inflammation in AS. This study aimed to assess the features of chronic prostatitis in patients with AS compared to healthy controls. Methods: A cross-sectional study including male patients with AS and healthy controls who agreed to undergo a prostate examination was conducted. Structured clinical interviews, prostate physical examinations, and cytological, biochemical, and microbiological tests on urinary samples collected before and after standardized prostatic massage (pre- and post-massage test) were performed. Results: Ninety participants (45 AS patients, mean age: 52.5 ± 10.0 years, with longstanding disease, 12.4 ± 6.9years, and 45 controls, mean age: 52.8 ± 12.1 years) were included. National Institutes of Health - Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index (NIH-CPSI) scores were similar in the AS and control groups (4.0 [1.0-12.0] vs. 5.0 [1.0—8.5], p = 0.994). The frequencies of symptoms of chronic prostatitis (NIH-CPSI Pain Domain ≥4) were also similar in both groups (23.3% vs. 22.7%, p = 0.953). Results of polymerase chain reaction tests for Chlamydia trachomatis were negative in all tested urinary samples, and uric acid concentrations and leukocyte counts were similar in all pre- and post-massage urinary samples. Conclusions: In this study, chronic prostatitis occurred in male patients with AS, but its frequency and characteristics did not differ from those found in the healthy male population of similar age.

Resumo O artigo aborda a infecção pelo papilomavírus humano (human papillomavirus, HPV), tema constitutivo do Protocolo Clínico e Diretrizes Terapêuticas para Atenção Integral às Pessoas com Infecções Sexualmente Transmissíveis, publicado pelo Ministério da Saúde. Tal documento foi elaborado com base em evidências científicas e validado em discussões e consenso entre especialistas. São apresentados aspectos epidemiológicos e clínicos, bem como orientações para os gestores e profissionais de saúde no diagnóstico, tratamento e prevenção da infecção pelo HPV. Este tema representa importante problema de saúde pública, haja vista essa infecção sexualmente transmissível ser a mais prevalente no mundo, capaz de desencadear o processo oncogênico do câncer do colo uterino, além de possibilitar a ocorrência de verrugas anogenitais. Neste artigo, são apresentadas informações importantes para o conhecimento do HPV, estratégias de ação para a prevenção e controle da infecção, uma assistência de qualidade e tratamento efetivo da doença.

Abstract This article addresses human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, this being one of the topics covered by the Clinical Protocol and Therapeutic Guidelines for Comprehensive Care for People with Sexually Transmitted Infections, published by the Brazilian Ministry of Health. The Protocol and Guidelines have been developed based on scientific evidence and validated in discussions with specialists. This article presents epidemiological and clinical aspects, as well as guidelines for health service managers and health workers about diagnosing and treating people with papillomavirus infection. This theme is an important public health problem, since it is the most prevalent sexually transmitted infection in the world, capable of triggering the oncogenic process of cervical cancer, as well as the possibility anogenital warts occurring. Important information is presented for gaining knowledge about HPV, as well as action strategies for infection prevention and control, provision of quality care and effective treatment of the disease.

Resumen El tema del papilomavirus humano (PVH) es uno de los capítulos del Protocolo Clínico y Conductas Terapéuticas para la Atención Integral a Personas con Infecciones de Transmisión Sexual, publicado por el Ministerio de Salud de Brasil. Este documento fue desarrollado en base a evidencia científica y validado en discusiones con especialistas. Se presentan aspectos epidemiológicos y clínicos, así como guías para gestores y profesionales de la salud en el diagnóstico, tratamiento y prevención de la infección por papilomavirus. Este tema constituye uno de los principales problemas de salud pública, pues además de ser la infección transmitida sexualmente más prevalente en todo el mundo, puede tener implicaciones para el proceso oncogénico del cáncer de cuello uterino y la posibilidad de presentar verrugas anogenitales. Se presenta información sobre estrategias de acciones de prevención y control, las cuales son importantes para entender el problema, ofrecer asistencia de calidad y tratamiento efectivo.

Resumo As recomendações de testes diagnósticos para investigação da sífilis compõem o Protocolo Clínico e Diretrizes Terapêuticas para Atenção Integral às Pessoas com Infecções Sexualmente Transmissíveis e o Manual Técnico para Diagnóstico de Sífilis, publicados pelo Ministério da Saúde do Brasil. Tais recomendações foram elaboradas com base em evidências científicas e discussões com painel de especialistas. Visando contribuir com gestores e profissionais de saúde na qualificação da assistência, este artigo apresenta o uso dos exames diretos para detecção de Treponema pallidum em lesões, assim como algoritmos que combinam testes imunológicos treponêmicos e não treponêmicos para auxiliar no diagnóstico da sífilis. O artigo também apresenta o uso dos testes não treponêmicos para investigação de neurossífilis e orientações para interpretação do título dos anticorpos não treponêmicos no monitoramento do tratamento e diagnóstico de sífilis congênita, bem como as perspectivas futuras de inovações em diagnóstico. Ressalta-se, além disso, o importante papel dos testes rápidos imunocromatográficos treponêmicos para a saúde pública e o enfrentamento da sífilis.

Abstract The recommendations for diagnostic tests for investigating syphilis are part of the Clinical Protocol and Therapeutic Guidelines for Comprehensive Care for People with Sexually Transmitted Infections and the Technical Manual for Syphilis Diagnosis, published by the Brazilian Ministry of Health. These recommendations were developed based on scientific evidence and discussions with a panel of experts. Aiming to contribute to the efforts of health service managers and health professionals in qualifying health care, this article presents the use of direct tests to detect Treponema pallidum in lesions, as well as algorithms that combine treponemal and non-treponemal antibody tests to assist in the diagnosis of syphilis. The article also covers use of non-treponemal tests to investigate neurosyphilis and guidelines for interpreting non-treponemal antibody titers in monitoring treatment and diagnosis of congenital syphilis, as well as prospects for innovations in diagnosis. The important role of rapid immunochromatographic treponemal tests for public health and for addressing syphilis is also highlighted.

Resumen Las recomendaciones de las pruebas de diagnóstico de sífilis forman parte del Protocolo Clínico y Directrices Terapéuticas para la Atención Integral a las Personas con Infecciones de Transmisión Sexual y del Manual Técnico para el Diagnóstico de Sífilis, publicados por el Ministerio de Salud de Brasil. Estos documentos fueron preparados en base a la evidencia científica y discusiones con especialistas. Con el objetivo de contribuir con los administradores y profesionales de la salud pública en la calificación de la atención, este artículo presenta el uso de pruebas directas para la detección de Treponema pallidum en lesiones, además de algoritmos que combinan pruebas treponémicas y no treponémicas para ayudar al diagnóstico. También se presentan las pruebas no treponémicas para investigar la neurosífilis y orientaciones para la interpretación de títulos de anticuerpos no treponémicos para monitorear la respuesta al tratamiento y diagnosticar la sífilis congénita, así como las perspectivas futuras para las innovaciones diagnósticas. También se enfatiza el uso de pruebas inmunocromatográficas treponémicas rápidas como una herramienta importante para la salud pública y para el enfrentamiento de la sífilis.

Resumo As recomendações de testes diagnósticos para investigação da sífilis compõem o Protocolo Clínico e Diretrizes Terapêuticas para Atenção Integral às Pessoas com Infecções Sexualmente Transmissíveis e o Manual Técnico para Diagnóstico de Sífilis, publicados pelo Ministério da Saúde do Brasil. Tais recomendações foram elaboradas com base em evidências científicas e discussões com painel de especialistas. Visando contribuir com gestores e profissionais de saúde na qualificação da assistência, este artigo apresenta o uso dos exames diretos para detecção de Treponema pallidum em lesões, assim como algoritmos que combinam testes imunológicos treponêmicos e não treponêmicos para auxiliar no diagnóstico da sífilis. O artigo também apresenta o uso dos testes não treponêmicos para investigação de neurossífilis e orientações para interpretação do título dos anticorpos não treponêmicos no monitoramento do tratamento e diagnóstico de sífilis congênita, bem como as perspectivas futuras de inovações em diagnóstico. Ressalta-se, além disso, o importante papel dos testes rápidos imunocromatográficos treponêmicos para a saúde pública e o enfrentamento da sífilis.

Resumen Las recomendaciones de las pruebas de diagnóstico de sífilis forman parte del Protocolo Clínico y Directrices Terapéuticas para la Atención Integral a las Personas con Infecciones de Transmisión Sexual y del Manual Técnico para el Diagnóstico de Sífilis, publicados por el Ministerio de Salud de Brasil. Estos documentos fueron preparados en base a la evidencia científica y discusiones con especialistas. Con el objetivo de contribuir con los administradores y profesionales de la salud pública en la calificación de la atención, este artículo presenta el uso de pruebas directas para la detección de Treponema pallidum en lesiones, además de algoritmos que combinan pruebas treponémicas y no treponémicas para ayudar al diagnóstico. También se presentan las pruebas no treponémicas para investigar la neurosífilis y orientaciones para la interpretación de títulos de anticuerpos no treponémicos para monitorear la respuesta al tratamiento y diagnosticar la sífilis congénita, así como las perspectivas futuras para las innovaciones diagnósticas. También se enfatiza el uso de pruebas inmunocromatográficas treponémicas rápidas como una herramienta importante para la salud pública y para el enfrentamiento de la sífilis.

Abstract The recommendations for diagnostic tests for investigating syphilis are part of the Clinical Protocol and Therapeutic Guidelines for Comprehensive Care for People with Sexually Transmitted Infections and the Technical Manual for Syphilis Diagnosis, published by the Brazilian Ministry of Health. These recommendations were developed based on scientific evidence and discussions with a panel of experts. Aiming to contribute to the efforts of health service managers and health professionals in qualifying health care, this article presents the use of direct tests to detect Treponema pallidum in lesions, as well as algorithms that combine treponemal and non-treponemal antibody tests to assist in the diagnosis of syphilis. The article also covers use of non-treponemal tests to investigate neurosyphilis and guidelines for interpreting non-treponemal antibody titers in monitoring treatment and diagnosis of congenital syphilis, as well as prospects for innovations in diagnosis. The important role of rapid immunochromatographic treponemal tests for public health and for addressing syphilis is also highlighted.

Resumo O artigo aborda a infecção pelo papilomavírus humano (human papillomavirus, HPV), tema constitutivo do Protocolo Clínico e Diretrizes Terapêuticas para Atenção Integral às Pessoas com Infecções Sexualmente Transmissíveis, publicado pelo Ministério da Saúde. Tal documento foi elaborado com base em evidências científicas e validado em discussões e consenso entre especialistas. São apresentados aspectos epidemiológicos e clínicos, bem como orientações para os gestores e profissionais de saúde no diagnóstico, tratamento e prevenção da infecção pelo HPV. Este tema representa importante problema de saúde pública, haja vista essa infecção sexualmente transmissível ser a mais prevalente no mundo, capaz de desencadear o processo oncogênico do câncer do colo uterino, além de possibilitar a ocorrência de verrugas anogenitais. Neste artigo, são apresentadas informações importantes para o conhecimento do HPV, estratégias de ação para a prevenção e controle da infecção, uma assistência de qualidade e tratamento efetivo da doença.

Resumen El tema del papilomavirus humano (PVH) es uno de los capítulos del Protocolo Clínico y Conductas Terapéuticas para la Atención Integral a Personas con Infecciones de Transmisión Sexual, publicado por el Ministerio de Salud de Brasil. Este documento fue desarrollado en base a evidencia científica y validado en discusiones con especialistas. Se presentan aspectos epidemiológicos y clínicos, así como guías para gestores y profesionales de la salud en el diagnóstico, tratamiento y prevención de la infección por papilomavirus. Este tema constituye uno de los principales problemas de salud pública, pues además de ser la infección transmitida sexualmente más prevalente en todo el mundo, puede tener implicaciones para el proceso oncogénico del cáncer de cuello uterino y la posibilidad de presentar verrugas anogenitales. Se presenta información sobre estrategias de acciones de prevención y control, las cuales son importantes para entender el problema, ofrecer asistencia de calidad y tratamiento efectivo.

Abstract This article addresses human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, this being one of the topics covered by the Clinical Protocol and Therapeutic Guidelines for Comprehensive Care for People with Sexually Transmitted Infections, published by the Brazilian Ministry of Health. The Protocol and Guidelines have been developed based on scientific evidence and validated in discussions with specialists. This article presents epidemiological and clinical aspects, as well as guidelines for health service managers and health workers about diagnosing and treating people with papillomavirus infection. This theme is an important public health problem, since it is the most prevalent sexually transmitted infection in the world, capable of triggering the oncogenic process of cervical cancer, as well as the possibility anogenital warts occurring. Important information is presented for gaining knowledge about HPV, as well as action strategies for infection prevention and control, provision of quality care and effective treatment of the disease.

Drug resistance is a global threat and one of the main contributing factors to tuberculosis (TB) outbreaks. The goal of this study was to analyse the molecular profile of multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) in the state of Santa Catarina in southern Brazil. Fifty-three MDR Mycobacterium tuberculosis clinical isolates were analysed by spoligotyping and a partial region of the rpoB gene, which is associated with rifampicin resistance (RMP-R), was sequenced. Some isolates were also distinguished by their mycobacterial interspersed repetitive units (MIRU). S531L was the most prevalent mutation found within rpoB in RMP-R isolates (58.5%), followed by S531W (20.8%). Only two MDR isolates showed no mutations within rpoB. Isolates of the Latin American Mediterranean (LAM) family were the most prevalent (45.3%) found by spoligotyping, followed by Haarlem (9.4%) and T (7.5%) families. SIT106 was found in 26.4% of isolates and all SIT106 isolates typed by MIRU-12 (5 out of 14) belong to MIT251. There was a high correlation between the S531W mutation and the LAM family mainly because all SIT2263 (LAM9) isolates carry this mutation. Among isolates with the S531W mutation in rpoB MIRU demonstrates a cluster formed by four isolates (SIT2263 and MIT163) and very similar profiles were observed between eight of the nine isolates. Better characterisation of TB isolates may lead to new ways in which to control and treat TB in this region of Brazil.

INTRODUCTION : In 2011, the Brazilian Ministry of Health rolled out a program for the external quality assessment of rapid human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) tests using the dried tube specimen (DTS) method (EQA-RT/DTS-HIV). Our objective was to evaluate the implementation of this program at 71 voluntary counseling and testing centers (VCTCs) in the Brazilian Legal Amazonian area one year after its introduction. METHODS : Quantitative and qualitative study that analyzed secondary data and interviews with healthcare workers (HCWs) (n=39) and VCTC coordinators (n=32) were performed. The assessment used 18 key indicators to evaluate the three dimensions of the program's logical framework: structure, process, and result. Each indicator was scored from 1-4, and the aggregate results corresponding to the dimensions were expressed as proportions. The results were compared to the perceptions of the HCWs and coordinators regarding the EQA-RT/DTS-HIV program. RESULTS: The aggregate scores for the three dimensions of structure, process, and result were 91.7%, 78.6%, and 95%, respectively. The lowest score in each dimension corresponded to a different indicator: access to Quali-TR online system 39% (structure), registration in Quali-TR online system 38.7% (process), and VCTC completed the full process in the program's first round 63.4% (result). Approximately 36% of the HCWs and 52% of the coordinators reported enhanced trust in the program for its rapid HIV testing performance. CONCLUSIONS: All three program dimensions exhibited satisfactory results (>75%). Nevertheless, the study findings highlight the need to improve certain program components. Additionally, long-term follow-ups is needed to provide a more thorough picture of the process for external quality assessment.

The identification of mycobacteria is essential because tuberculosis (TB) and mycobacteriosis are clinically indistinguishable and require different therapeutic regimens. The traditional phenotypic method is time consuming and may last up to 60 days. Indeed, rapid, affordable, specific and easy-to-perform identification methods are needed. We have previously described a polymerase chain reaction-based method called a mycobacteria mobility shift assay (MMSA) that was designed for Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTC) and nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) species identification. The aim of this study was to assess the MMSA for the identification of MTC and NTM clinical isolates and to compare its performance with that of the PRA-hsp65 method. A total of 204 clinical isolates (102 NTM and 102 MTC) were identified by the MMSA and PRA-hsp65. For isolates for which these methods gave discordant results, definitive species identification was obtained by sequencing fragments of the 16S rRNA and hsp65 genes. Both methods correctly identified all MTC isolates. Among the NTM isolates, the MMSA alone assigned 94 (92.2%) to a complex or species, whereas the PRA-hsp65 method assigned 100% to a species. A 91.5% agreement was observed for the 94 NTM isolates identified by both methods. The MMSA provided correct identification for 96.8% of the NTM isolates compared with 94.7% for PRA-hsp65. The MMSA is a suitable auxiliary method for routine use for the rapid identification of mycobacteria.

This paper is the result of a visit by Brazilian researchers to Ghana, with the aim of improving understanding of the relationship between traditional healers and conventional health practices, specifically in relation to tuberculosis. Through this exploratory visit, this group of researchers promoted by the Edital Pro Africa (CNPq) had an opportunity to learn about, reflect on, and discuss the different social, economic and cultural realities and contexts that have led to the different health conditions and forms of healthcare in Ghana. Besides the direct relationship between the social and economic conditions of the country and the health of its population, it was also concluded that there is a clear distancing, in the Ghanaian reality, between the traditional healers and the conventional system, in terms of culture and modes of operation, each constituting isolated systems with little or no collaboration between them.The visit enabled us to see the difficulties involved in managing TB, including diagnosis, treatment, monitoring and co-infection with HIV. The majority of patients with TB only go to hospital after several attempts at self-medication, due to the non-specificity of the principal symptoms, and also to the trust in the traditional medicine. Initiatives to encourage research into medicinal plants in Ghana are seeking partnerships with developed countries, but not always with clear or secure national interests. For the traditional healers, there are high hopes that the information gathered by researchers from the local universities, on the plants and traditional methods they use, will result in affirmation and recognition of their practices, but they complain strongly that they receive no feedback on the research carried out.