This virtual learning episode will discuss the global challenges, solutions and recommendations for the management of cryptococcal disease through a series of presentations, including case-based learning and a Q and A session.
Background
Cryptococcal disease is second highest cause of mortality in people living with HIV, accounting for approximately 19% of deaths, second only to tuberculosis. Cryptococcal disease occurs more often in individuals with advanced HIV disease (adults and adolescents with a CD4 cell count <200 cells/mm3 or presenting with a WHO Stage 3 or 4 illness). However, timely testing and treatment for cryptococcal disease can greatly reduce mortality. In 2022, WHO released new recommendations for the management of cryptococcal disease, introducing a single, high dose of liposomal amphotericin, accompanied by flucytosine and fluconazole as the preferred regimen for induction therapy. Treatment consists of three stages, namely induction, consolidation and maintenance. The introduction of the new regimen has the potential to greatly reduce the requirements for pre-medication and monitoring on treatment. WHO recommends that screening for cryptococcal disease be conducted as part of the WHO recommended AHD package of care in HIV programs worldwide.
Uptake and scale-up of services for preventing and treating cryptococcal disease is a critical area of focus needed in order to achieve the UN High-level targest of ending-AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.
Date and time
12 July 2023 - 16:00-17:30 CEST
Registration is required beforehand.
The series will be held in English. Translation will be available in French, Russian and Portuguese. Materials from the series will be available for those who have registered as open access.
WHO TRACK initiative
WHO “TRACK” Initiative (Technical Resources for Advanced HIV Capacity and Knowledge) is a digital platform and series of webinars to enable and promote the sharing of knowledge and best practices to promote high quality care for people with advanced HIV disease. This digital learning series has a specific focus on the WHO AFRO region but remains relevant for other WHO regions.