Journal of acquired immune deficiency syndromes : JAIDS
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J. Acquir. Immune Defic. Syndr. · Dec 2004
Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter Study Clinical TrialA randomized controlled trial of 5% lidocaine gel for HIV-associated distal symmetric polyneuropathy.
To investigate the analgesic efficacy and safety of 5% lidocaine gel in painful HIV-associated distal sensory polyneuropathy (DSP). ⋯ Lidocaine 5% gel is a safe but ineffective agent in the treatment of pain in HIV-associated DSP.
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J. Acquir. Immune Defic. Syndr. · Dec 2004
Magnitude and determinants of first-time and repeat testing among individuals with newly diagnosed HIV infection between 2000 and 2001 in Alberta, Canada: results from population-based laboratory surveillance.
The purpose of the study was to determine the magnitude and predictors of first-time and repeat testing for HIV infection among newly diagnosed cases in Alberta, Canada, and to determine the extent of co-infection with hepatitis C (HCV) and hepatitis B (HBV). Using the Provincial Laboratory for Public Health (PLPH) database, all newly diagnosed HIV cases in Alberta between 2000 and 2001 were identified and the testing history for HIV, HCV, and HBV among these cases since 1992 was reviewed. Significant differences in the characteristics of first-time and repeat testers were identified using the chi test, and where appropriate, the Fisher exact test. ⋯ There are significant regional differences within Alberta in the characteristics of the HIV epidemic and associated test-seeking behaviors. These data reinforce the need to make the most of each test-seeking event with proper counseling and other relevant support services. Given the high prevalence of co-infection with HCV, these results clearly support the need for testing and counseling strategies to take into account additional risks associated with HCV infections.