Clinical spectrum and long-term outcomes of mpox: a cohort study spanning from acute infection to six-month follow-up

• DOI: 10.1186/s12879-024-09191-6
• Publication Date: 2024-03-15T07:01:27Z
• Authors: Christoph Zeyen; Maria Kinberger; Helene Kriedemann; Frieder Pfäfflin; Pinkus Tober-Lau; Leu Huang; Victor Max Corman; Alexander Nast; Leif Erik Sander; Florian Kurth; Ricardo Niklas We...
• Keywords: Superinfection; Medical microbiology; Sex organ

Abstract Background Cases of mpox have been reported worldwide since May 2022. Limited knowledge exists regarding the long-term course this disease. To assess sequelae in terms scarring and quality life (QoL) patients 4–6 months after initial infection. Methods Prospective observational study on clinical characteristics symptoms with polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-confirmed mpox, including both outpatients inpatients. Follow-up visits were conducted at months, assessing Patient Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS), Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) sexual impairment, using a numeric rating scale (NRS) from 0 to 10. Results Forty-three patients, age range 19–64 years, 41 men (all identifying as MSM) 2 women, included. Upon diagnosis, skin or mucosal lesions present 93.0% cases, 73.3% reporting pain (median intensity: 8, Q1-Q3: 6–10). Anal involvement resulted significantly higher frequency than genital (RR: 3.60, 95%-CI: 1.48–8.74). Inpatient treatment due pain, superinfection, abscess other indications was required 20 (46.5%). After most did not significant limitations, scars pain. However, compared without such complications, superinfection during acute phase had more extensive scar formation PSAS: 24.0 vs. 11.0, p = 0.039) experienced greater impairment their QoL DLQI: 2.0 0.0, 0.036) sexuality NRS: 5.0 0.017). Conclusion We observed wide manifestations, some experiencing requiring hospitalization. recovered sequelae, but those abscesses superinfections infection reduction sexuality. Adequate treatment, antiseptic antibiotic therapy phase, may help prevent hence, improve outcomes.