The cutaneous manifestations of HIV infection

Dermatologic disease is extremely common and varied in HIV-infected patients. While some cutaneous findings are nearly exclusive to HIV-seropositive individuals, many are found in the general population. However, HIV-infected individuals often have an increased prevalence or severity, atypical presentations, or difficulty with treatment of the disease. Immune reconstitution with HAART significantly reduces the prevalence of many dermatologic diseases, but also has associated cutaneous side effects. Correct and early diagnosis of skin disease in HIV-infected individuals allows for early management and improved quality of life. Because dermatologic manifestations may be the first clue of HIV infection, offering HIV testing to affected individuals can lead to early diagnosis and treatment of HIV infection and, ideally, a decrease in disease progression and transmission.