Prevalence of bone destruction in patients with TALAROMYCES MARNEFFEI infection: A systematic review and meta-analysis
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Published on: February 2, 2024
Junhong Zhou1, Deshuang Xi1, Yilin Teng1
1Department of Spine and Osteopathy Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China.
Objectives:
This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the prevalence of bone destruction in patients with Talaromyces marneffei infection, examine distribution patterns of bone lesions, and assess differences between HIV-positive and HIV-negative patients.
Methods:
Following PRISMA guidelines, 15 studies involving 839 patients were analyzed. Random-effects meta-analysis was performed to estimate prevalence and odds ratios. Study quality was assessed using ROBINS-I.
Results:
The overall prevalence of bone destruction was 18% (95% CI: 10-27%). HIV-negative patients showed significantly higher odds of bone destruction (OR: 0.09, 95% CI: 0.02-0.37%). Bone lesions were widely distributed, with osseous involvement (45.7-71.4%) more prevalent than articular (7.1-66.7%). The skull, ribs, and lumbar vertebrae were commonly affected.
Conclusion:
Bone destruction is a significant complication in TM infection, particularly in HIV-negative patients. The diverse anatomical distribution emphasizes the need for comprehensive skeletal assessment in suspected cases.
Insights
Bone destruction is a notable complication of Talaromyces marneffei (TM) infection, occurring in 18% of cases. HIV-negative individuals face higher risks, highlighting the need for thorough skeletal evaluation.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Rheumatology
- Public Health
Background:
- Talaromyces marneffei (TM) infection is an emerging opportunistic infection.
- Bone destruction is a severe but understudied complication of TM infection.
- Understanding the prevalence and patterns of bone involvement is crucial for patient management.
Approach:
- Systematic review and meta-analysis adhering to PRISMA guidelines.
- Analysis of 15 studies comprising 839 patients.
- Random-effects meta-analysis to determine prevalence and odds ratios, with study quality assessed by ROBINS-I.
Key Points:
- Overall prevalence of bone destruction in TM infection is 18% (95% CI: 10-27%).
- HIV-negative patients exhibit significantly higher odds of bone destruction (OR: 0.09, 95% CI: 0.02-0.37%).
- Commonly affected sites include the skull, ribs, and lumbar vertebrae, with osseous involvement more frequent than articular.
Conclusions:
- Bone destruction is a significant complication of Talaromyces marneffei infection, particularly in the HIV-negative population.
- The widespread anatomical distribution of bone lesions necessitates comprehensive skeletal assessment in suspected cases.
- This review underscores the importance of early detection and management of skeletal complications in TM infection.

