Rates and Correlates of Syphilis Reinfection in Men Who Have Sex with Men

Abstract

Purpose: This study examined rates and correlates of syphilis reinfection in men who have sex with men (MSM). Methods: From 2012 to 2015, time to reinfection was assessed in 323 MSM receiving initial treatment for syphilis in San Francisco. Results: One in five men was reinfected (71/323; 22%). The rate of syphilis reinfection was greater among HIVinfected men (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 1.96; 95% confidence interval [95% CI] = 1.16?3.31) and ketamine users (aHR = 2.76; 95% CI = 1.09?7.00). Conclusion: Expanded prevention efforts are needed with HIV-infected and substance-using MSM to reduce the burden of reinfection in this population.