Trichomoniasis caused by the protozoan parasite Trichomonas vaginalis (TV) is one of the most commonly occurring sexually transmitted infections of non-viral origin. This study examines the prevalence of TV infection amongst consenting symptomatic women attending three of the largest sexual health clinics in Scotland, United Kingdom. In addition, an evaluation of three testing methods to identify TV from vaginal fluid was performed involving the commercial Hologic APTIMA TV transcription-mediated amplification assay, a real-time PCR assay and microscopy. A total of 398 patients consented to participation and all were tested by the three methods. The prevalence of TV was 2.8% (n = 11), with both molecular assays correctly detecting an additional two cases of TV compared to microscopy. The prevalence of three other sexually transmitted pathogens, namely Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae and herpes simplex virus were 7.3% (n = 31), 0.3% (n = 1) and 1.5% (n = 6), respectively. The majority of TV cases (78%; n = 8) occurred in women greater than 29 years of age compared to most Chlamydia trachomatis cases, who were aged 30 or less (97%; n = 30).

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infection. Effective partner notification (PN) is key to identifying sexual contacts that may have been exposed, providing the opportunity to offer necessary advice, support and testing. Aim This audit explored current PN practices across the North East in order to identify opportunities for improvement and inform future guidance. Methods All genitourinary medicine and infectious diseases clinics across the North East were asked to complete questionnaires for up to ten newly diagnosed cases of HIV between January and December 2010, and provide additional background information on PN arrangements. Data were analysed used EpiData version 3.1. Results Seven out of nine (78%) clinics responded. PN was discussed with 82% (46/56) of newly diagnosed patients and documented in the records of 77% (43/56). The time taken to complete all PN outcomes ranged from 0e29 weeks (median 1.5 weeks) and a mixture of methods were used to calculate the PN period. A total of 70 regular partners were recorded, 32 of which were tested and 44% (14/32) found to be HIV positive. 95 casual partners were recorded, nine of which were tested and none found to the HIV positive. Additional outcomes such as safe sex discussions and condom use were generally less frequently documented. Discussion and Conclusion Although this sample is relatively small, there was engagement from the majority of regional services, suggesting that it is likely to be representative of local practice. It is clear that there is variation in current PN practices between clinics, and there are a number of challenges which may be particularly pertinent to HIV infection. These findings will be used to inform local policy and standards with the aim of improving the quality of local services and ensuring accountability for actions. Background Antimicrobial resistance in Neisseria gonorrhoeae restricts effective treatment options. Recent UK treatment guidelines recommend ceftriaxone as first line treatment. If ceftriaxone becomes unsuitable for treating gonorrhoea there are no suitable available alternatives. The potential for using past therapeutic agents for gonorrhoea treatment should be assessed. Aim(s)/Objective(s) Identify risk factors associated with antimicrobial resistance to penicillin, tetracycline and ciprofloxacin. Methods Data from the Gonococcal Resistance to Antimicrobials Surveillance Programme were analysed for trends in antimicrobial resistance across sub-groups of the Gonococcal Resistance to Antimicrobials Surveillance Programme population. Using 2010 data patient variables associated with penicillin, tetracycline and ciprofloxacin resistance were identified using univariate and multivariable analyses of ORS. Results Rates of penicillin, tetracycline and ciprofloxacin resistance have increased across all regions in England and Wales in recent years, with very high levels found in white MSM. Lower rates of resistance, with <15% prevalence, indicating a susceptible population, are found in women (penicillin 6.4%, ciprofloxacin 12.8%), black ethnicity (penic...

BackgroundLocally we have observed an increase in Chlamydia (CT) testing in those over 25 years with a reduction in CT diagnoses. It is known that this age group carry less of a disease burden and as such we wished to explore whether testing was appropriate. AimsA study was designed to understand testing practices and the clinical indication for CT testing in this age group. MethodsLaboratory CT test requests were configured to launch a series of pop-up boxes prompting the clinician to enter patient specific details. The study was piloted in the sexual health service for 2 weeks before being rolled out to all users. Data were collected for 3 months and included age, sex, test sample site, indication for testing/clinical details and result.

Background/introductionMirroring national data, HIV testing in our local board is failing to reduce the high proportion of late diagnoses. Healthcare Improvement Scotland (HIS) HIV standards 2011 recommended the development and promotion of a written HIV testing policy. A local HIV testing policy was introduced in 2013 based on the UK National testing guideline (BHIVA), recommending routine testing in certain clinical areas, in high risk groups and all individuals with “clinical indicator conditions” regardless of perceived risk. The introduction of the policy was supported by staff training.Aim(s)/objectivesReview the impact of a HIV testing policy on staff knowledge and levels of HIV testing.MethodsIn November 2015 a survey was undertaken to question staff awareness of the policy, understanding of HIV testing and levels of HIV testing. The survey was advertised on local websites to healthcare, social work, third sector and substance misuse staff.ResultsThe survey had 120 respondents, with the largest proportion from Consultant and GP staff. Over 70% of respondents were aware of the policy. 25% reported that the policy had changed their clinical practice by increasing their confidence in testing. There has been a corresponding increase in HIV testing figures. Interestingly over 70% responded that a detailed HIV risk assessment was required even in the presence of a clinical indicator condition.Discussion/conclusionThe survey has demonstrated that the HIV testing policy has increased staff awareness and confidence in HIV testing. Late diagnosis rates continue to be monitored and misconceptions regarding HIV testing challenged.