Sexually Transmitted Infections Miscellanea

Sexually transmitted infection in HIV-positive men with erectile dysfunction using phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors

McCarty, E. J., Quinn, K., Dinsmore, W. W. — 2011-09-13T14:24:31-07:00

HIV-positive men are commonly prescribed phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitors for erectile dysfunction (ED). When prescribing, consideration should be given to possible onward transmission of HIV, which is enhanced by the presence of other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).1–3 We were unable to find any reports of STI acquisition in men with HIV using PDE5 inhibitors.

The aim was to audit the management of ED within our HIV cohort in Belfast according to British Society of Sexual Medicine guidelines.4 Documentation of STI diagnoses and safer sex discussion was also reviewed in those who had received PDE5 inhibitors (sildenafil, tadalafil and vardenafil) between 2002 and 2010. Data were obtained from case notes and pharmacy records.

Fifty HIV-positive men received PDE5 inhibitors during the 9-year study period. The median age was 48 years (range 27–64 years). Of the 50 men, 40 (80%) were men who have sex with...

Love in the Time of AIDS: Inequality, Gender, and Rights in South Africa

Devis, K. — 2011-09-13T14:24:31-07:00

Love in the Time of AIDS uses a historical ethnographic approach to consider influences on the current presentation of the AIDS pandemic in South Africa. The growing population of Mandeni, KwaZulu-Natal, where Hunter spent periods of time between 2000 and 2009, is the focus of the ethnographic research. This extended fieldwork facilitated reflection of ongoing changes, such as fluctuating employment levels and shifting gender roles. It also allowed strong relationships to be built with informants who afforded access to local concepts of intimacy by providing narratives, love letters and text messages. This material is used to expressively illustrate Hunter's case for the importance of social determinants in the perpetuation of HIV/AIDS. One of the many strengths of this ethnography is the author's clear connection with his informants, shown in his portrayal of their perspectives. By giving a voice to some of the most marginalised in this society, Hunter provides...

Sexually Transmitted Infections: The Facts (3rd edition)

Aicken, C. — 2011-09-13T14:24:31-07:00

This little book provides detailed information on sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and related conditions, but does not stop there. It begins by explaining what patients can expect when they go for STI testing, what a genitourinary medicine clinic is and why they might choose to attend one. A chapter entitled ‘Understanding your results’ explains complex concepts, including false positives and negatives and the implications of test sensitivity and specificity. It also covers issues in the interpretation of surveillance data (such as how changes in testing patterns and practices can lead to apparently higher rates of infection). Chapters on different infections follow, and the book concludes with two chapters on HIV/AIDS, one putting the HIV epidemic in its social and historical context, and the other offering a clinical overview of HIV testing, infectivity, postexposure prophylaxis and treatment.

Although adults and young people may increasingly seek out information on STIs online,...

Unusual increase in reported HIV/AIDS cases among older persons in western Hunan province, China

Chen, X., Zheng, J., He, J. M., Qin, B., Hu, Y., Wang, L., Wang, N. — 2011-09-13T14:24:31-07:00

An unusual increase in HIV/AIDS cases among older people was reported to the Hunan Centers for Disease Control between 2005 and 2007. Cases originated in four rural, western districts of this inland province of China. Given the historical concern for outbreaks of HIV in rural areas due to blood donation,1 these cases prompted closer examination to understand the reasons for their appearance and to take measures to prevent further spread.

Eighty cases met our investigation criterion of 50 years or older and underwent a structured interview. The median age was 65 years (range 51–82); 42% were female. Most were ethnic minorities, 76% Tujia and 9% Miao, with low education. Nearly all had been married; 43% were widowed. Most (54%) spent time away from their spouse (median >5 years); 10% were currently sexually active with a spouse; few ever used condoms with their spouse.

Investigation of the possible modes of HIV...