The intersection between HIV and syphilis in men who have sex with men: some fresh perspectives. Issue 6 (December 2010)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Drummond, Fraser; Guy, Rebecca; Kaldor, John M; Donovan, Basil
• Is Part Of: HIV therapy. Volume 4:Issue 6(2010)
• Page Start: 661
• Page End: 673
• Publication Date: 2010-12
• Subjects: diagnosis -- HIV -- management -- men who have sex with men -- prevention -- syphilis; HIV (Viruses) -- Treatment -- Periodicals; HIV (Viruses) -- Research -- Periodicals; 616.979206
• DOI: 10.2217/hiv.10.55
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1758-4310

Abstract

Syphilis is increasing in men who have sex with men and disproportionately affects HIV-infected men. Here we review the epidemiology, diagnostic techniques, treatment guidelines, follow-up procedures and control of syphilis. The difference in these factors in HIV-infected men and uninfected men and evidence for this is reviewed. We explain that HIV-infected men are at higher risk of syphilis acquisition as a result of different behavioral factors. Thus, some control strategies may be different for HIV-infected men owing to these factors and also because HIV-infected men are more closely linked with medical care. There is no strong evidence to suggest there should be any differences in diagnostic techniques, treatment guidelines or follow-up procedures between HIV-infected and uninfected men.