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Psoriasis associated with human immunodeficiency virus in an infant

P McAleer1, P Chu, S M White

  • 1Department of Dermatology, New York Medical College-Metropolitan Hospital Center, New York 10029, USA.

Insights

Psoriasis is rarely seen in infants, but this case highlights a 3-month-old with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) who developed psoriasis. This is the first reported infant case, suggesting a potential link between HIV and psoriasis in early childhood.

Area of Science:

  • Dermatology
  • Pediatrics
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition often associated with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) in adults.
  • The co-occurrence of psoriasis and HIV in pediatric populations, particularly infants, is not well-documented.

Observation:

  • A 3-month-old infant with a diagnosed Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection presented with a widespread skin eruption.
  • The clinical presentation was consistent with psoriasis, despite the patient's young age.

Findings:

  • This case represents the first documented instance of psoriasis in an infant with HIV infection.
  • The findings suggest a possible association between HIV and the development of psoriasis in very young children.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of considering psoriasis in infants presenting with unusual skin conditions, especially if they have HIV.
  • Further research is warranted to explore the immunological mechanisms underlying psoriasis in HIV-infected infants and the potential role of antiretroviral therapy, such as zidovudine.

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