The Medical journal of Australia
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To assess the performance and acceptability of the OraQuick Advance Rapid HIV-1/2 Antibody Test (ORT) in Australia. ⋯ ORT sensitivity is reduced in early HIV infection. The test is highly acceptable and less stressful than venous sampling. Participants are keen to be tested with the ORT in future, would recommend it to peers and would have tests more frequently if the ORT were licensed. TGA approval of this test might slow increasing HIV infection rates among MSM and others by facilitating diagnosis and treatment.
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To examine whether there have been recent changes in Australian antiretroviral treatment (ART) prescribers' perceptions and practices relating to early ART initiation, which was defined as commencing ART when a patient's CD4+ T-cell count approaches 500 cells/mm3 or immediately after a patient is diagnosed with HIV. ⋯ Our findings show increasing acceptance of and support for early ART initiation primarily as treatment and not as prevention.
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To evaluate the rate of HIV and tuberculosis co-infection and changes in HIV testing practices for patients with tuberculosis managed in South Eastern Sydney Local Health District (SESLHD), New South Wales, Australia. ⋯ The rate of HIV co-infection among people treated for tuberculosis in south-eastern Sydney is of clinical importance. Rates of HIV testing in this population have increased, but further gains are desirable. It is unclear if the intervention influenced the increase in HIV testing rates.
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To explore the current management in Australian general practice of common respiratory tract infections (RTIs) in children younger than 5 years. ⋯ GP management of paediatric RTIs in Australia varied according to the clinical problem and with age and sex of the GP. Further research into parents' and health professionals' attitudes and practices regarding the role of antibiotics, over-the-counter medications, and hygiene will help maintain favourable management practices.