Herpes simplex virus type 2 infection was one of the strongest risk factors for HIV acquisition among men who have sex with men.
Infection with herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) has long been thought to play a role in HIV acquisition and disease progression. However, suppression of HSV-2 with oral acyclovir has not proven effective in reducing the risk for HIV acquisition (JW Infect Dis Jan 20 2010 and Mar 19 2008).
To further explore the synergy between these two viruses, investigators conducted a post hoc analysis of data from the Step Study. This randomized trial of an adenovirus serotype 5 (Ad5) HIV vaccine was stopped prematurely when the vaccine candidate was found to offer no protection — and, in fact, increased the risk for HIV acquisition among men who were Ad5-seropositive and uncircumcised (JW AIDS Clin Care Dec 8 2008).
The post hoc analysis included 1836…
Reviewing Authors
Colleen F. Kelley, MD, MPH
Colleen F. Kelley, MD, MPH
DisclosuresGrant/Research SupportNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases; NIH/National Institute on Drug Abuse
Editorial BoardsJAIDS: Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes; Vaccines
Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesInternational Antiviral Society–USA (Board of Directors); Infectious Diseases Society of America (Past President)
DisclosuresGrant/Research SupportNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases; NIH/National Institute on Drug Abuse
Editorial BoardsJAIDS: Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes; Vaccines
Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesInternational Antiviral Society–USA (Board of Directors); Infectious Diseases Society of America (Past President)