Characterization and risk factors in newborns exposed to human immunodeficiency virus during pregnancy in 3 medical centers in Cucuta, Colombia.

Abstract

Background: The objective of early identification of pregnant women living with HIV is to reduce mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV. In Colombia, despite the strategies implemented, new cases of infected children still occur. Aim: To characterize newborns exposed to maternal HIV in three reference hospital centers in Cúcuta, Colombia; a city with a high prevalence of migrant care. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted between 2017-2020 in 3 different medical centers. We included 29 pregnant women with confirmed diagnosis of HIV infection, 34.4% of Venezuelan nationality. Results: In 3/32 exposed neonates HIV were diagnosed with an annual MTCT rate (2017-2020) calculated in the study population of 0%, 14.2%, 8.3%, and 25%, respectively, figures higher than the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) target (≤ 2%). Absence/deficiency in prenatal controls (55.3%), absence and/or failure of antiretroviral treatment during gestation and late maternal diagnosis (62%) were the main risk factors identified for HIV MTCT. Discussion: The exposed data evidence the public health impact of the increase in the number of pregnant women with HIV/AIDS in the region, taking into account the implications of pediatric HIV. It is imperative to reinforce prevention strategies, diagnosis and early maternal and neonatal treatment, with a special focus on migrant pregnant women.