Resum
To determine the prevalence of HIV- 1 and
HTLV-I/II among female prostitutes from different
areas of the city of Buenos Aires, we studied serum
samples from 237 individuals (mean age: 25; range
17 to 39). Prostitutes were recruited from 16 different
Buenos Aires locations with different economical
status. Information on sexual behavior, health and
socioeconomic conditions was collected through a
questionnaire. HIV-1 and HTLV-I/II antibodies (ab)
were tested by ELISA (Abbott) and Particle aggluti-
nation (Fujirebio, Tokyo) respectively. Positive results
were confirmed by immunofluorescence assay.
Samples that were positive for HIV-1 antibodies were
also tested for p24 antigen (Abbott). VDRL for
syphilis was performed in all samples. Fifteen (6.3%)
out of the 237 individuals were positive for HIV-1
antibodies, Moreover, 2 (0.8%) HIV-1 seropositive
prostitutes were also positive for HTLV-I/II anti-
bodies and for HIV p24-Ag. Eventhough PCR for
HTLV-I/II was not performed, titration by IFA in
these two samples suggests HTLV-I. Our serologic
results indicate a relatively high HIV-1 infection
among prostitutes working in Buenos Aires. As we
previously mentioned for other risk groups, we found
an association between HTLV-I/II and HIV-1 infec-
tion in this particular group. Although we did not
find any significant difference between HIV-1
seropositivity and the variables analyzed through the
questionnaire, the prevalence of HIV- 1 infection was
higher in prostitutes working in mask brothels
('sauna or massage houses') as compared with hotel
or street prostitutes.