The Swiss Network of Dermatology Policlinics HIV prevalence study: Rationale, characteristics and results (1990-1996)

The Swiss Network of Dermatology Policlinics (SNDP) has monitored the preva lence of HIV among patients treated for a sexually transmitted disease (STD ) since January 1990. A questionnaire was sent to each policlinic in the ne twork (Basel, Bern, Geneva, Lausanne, and two in Zurich) to collect informa tion on their participation in this study and the characteristics of the ne twork. The responses reveal that the six policlinics followed the HIV preva lence study protocol in a uniform manner and had similar logistical and org anisational characteristics. HIV prevalences in this population were high ( 1.6% among heterosexuals, 24.0% among male homo/bisexuals, and 35.7% among injecting drug users), have remained stable, and vary considerably by polic linic. In conclusion, we found that the policlinics have correctly implemen ted the HIV prevalence study and that the SNDP is a homogeneous sentinel su rveillance system. Knowledge of the organisation and characteristics of the SNDP has allowed us to better interpret and present our data, and we recom mend that other sentinel surveillance systems of this type collect this sor t of in formation.