Evaluation of Adherence to HIV Postexposure Prophylaxis and Follow-up in Pediatric Sexual Assault Victims in Turkey: A Tertiary Center Experience
The Pediatric infectious disease journal, cilt.45, sa.2, ss.165-169, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
- Cilt numarası: 45 Sayı: 2
- Basım Tarihi: 2026
- Doi Numarası: 10.1097/inf.0000000000004984
- Dergi Adı: The Pediatric infectious disease journal
- Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, BIOSIS, EMBASE, MEDLINE
- Sayfa Sayıları: ss.165-169
- Anahtar Kelimeler: HIV, postexposure prophylaxis, sexual assault, pediatric, adherence
- Sağlık Bilimleri Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet
Özet
BACKGROUND: Postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) is critical in preventing HIV acquisition after risky exposures, particularly in pediatric sexual assault victims. Despite its importance, adherence and follow-up remain significant challenges. OBJECTIVES: This study evaluates PEP and follow-up adherence and efficacy among pediatric sexual assault victims treated at a tertiary care hospital in Turkey. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 119 pediatric patients 1 month to 18 years of age, treated between September 2017 and September 2022. Data were collected on demographics, PEP initiation and completion, follow-up rates and serologic testing for HIV. PEP compliance, follow-up adherence and outcomes were analyzed. RESULTS: PEP was initiated in 97% of the eligible 119 patients, with 70% completing the regimen. Compliance showed no significant differences by sex or age. Follow-up adherence decreased progressively, from 55% at the first month to 30% by the sixth month. Nausea and vomiting occurred in one case, indicating a low incidence of side effects. None of the patients seroconverted to HIV. CONCLUSION: A structured care system involving multidisciplinary collaboration, pioneered by pediatric infectious diseases, can lead to high PEP initiation and completion rates in children. Single-pill PEP regimens may enhance adherence. However, the decline in follow-up rates underscores the need for improved follow-up mechanisms and future interventions.