Outbreak of Syphilis, but Not of Acute Hepatitis C, Among HIV-Infected Homosexual Men in Madrid

Abstract

Background: Clustered cases of acute hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, frequently accompanied by sexually transmitted diseases, have recently been reported among men who have sex with men (MSM) in several European cities. Method: We performed a retrospective record of cases of syphilis in a large cohort of HIV-infected individuals on regular follow-up in Madrid, Spain. HCV testing was carried out in all of them. Results: A total of 53 diagnosis of syphilis were made during the previous 4 years (2002 to 2005) in 729 HIV-infected MSM on regular follow-up. However, in only 2 of them (3.7%) asymptomatic HCV seroconversion occurred at the time of the syphilis episode. Both patients developed chronic hepatitis C. Conclusion: Acute HCV infection should periodically be ruled out in all HIV-infected MSM engaged in sexual risky behaviors presenting with syphilis.

Keywords:

• acute hepatitis C
• HIV
• prevention
• syphilis