Infection with Trichomonas vaginalis increases the risk of HIV-1 acquisition

J Infect Dis. 2007 Mar 1;195(5):698-702. doi: 10.1086/511278. Epub 2007 Jan 22.

Abstract

We conducted a prospective study among women in Mombasa, Kenya, to determine whether Trichomonas vaginalis infection was associated with an increased risk of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection. At monthly follow-up visits, laboratory screening for HIV-1 and genital tract infections was conducted. Among 1335 HIV-1-seronegative women monitored for a median of 566 days, there were 806 incident T. vaginalis infections (23.6/100 person-years), and 265 women seroconverted to HIV-1 (7.7/100 person-years). Trichomoniasis was associated with a 1.52-fold (95% confidence interval, 1.04-2.24-fold) increased risk of HIV-1 acquisition after adjustment for potential confounding factors. Treatment and prevention of T. vaginalis infection could reduce HIV-1 risk in women.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Alcohol Drinking
  • Delayed-Action Preparations
  • Education
  • Female
  • HIV Infections / epidemiology
  • HIV Infections / etiology*
  • HIV Infections / virology
  • HIV-1*
  • Humans
  • Kenya / epidemiology
  • Levonorgestrel / administration & dosage
  • Medroxyprogesterone Acetate / administration & dosage
  • Risk Factors
  • Sex Work
  • Time Factors
  • Trichomonas Vaginitis / complications*
  • Trichomonas Vaginitis / epidemiology

Substances

  • Delayed-Action Preparations
  • Levonorgestrel
  • Medroxyprogesterone Acetate