[Reduction of mother-child transmission of HIV infection in Africa: from clinical research to public health programs].

More and more African women are infected by HIV. As a result the mother-to-child transmission (MCT) rate is rising. Various prevention techniques have been assessed in randomized clinical trials in Africa but results need to be discussed to understand the full implications for prevention programs. To gain insight into this issue, we reviewed 11 randomized trials conducted in Africa and several other studies from developed countries. Trials using antiretroviral (ARV) drugs demonstrated good results for prevention of MCT in the first six months of life using abbreviated regimens involving either zidovudine (with or without lamivudine) or nevirapine alone. Preliminary results suggest long-term effectiveness of zidovudine. Antiseptic and nutritional interventions have demonstrated some efficacy in reducing maternal and newborn morbidity and mortality but have no effect on MCT rate. Confidential, voluntary HIV screening and counseling of pregnant women and short-course ARV treatment during the perinatal period associated with alternatives to breast-feeding such as early weaning or replacement of breast milk at birth are now the best methods to reduce MCT. Prevention of postnatal transmission will require further study in particular with regard to effects of different methods of feeding and post-exposure prophylaxis using ARV drugs in newborns. Management of HIV-infected children must remain a high priority. Implementation of currently available strategies is now under discussion.