Treatment of plaque-psoriasis in HIV-positive patients

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease that can often accompany human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemics. Development of psoriasis in HIV patients is correlated with a decrease in CD4+ count. Significant variability in the clinical presentation of psoriasis makes it a challenging disease to diagnose. Furthermore, associated immunodeficiency complicates standard treatment with immunosuppressive and biological therapy. Articles that match the terms psoriasis and HIV were searched in MEDLINE and Embase and selected based on their relevance. Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) is a medication regimen used to manage and treat HIV infection. In treating mild psoriasis in HIV-positive patients, topical agents combined with HAART are considered first-line therapy, followed by phototherapy. Second-line therapy includes oral retinoids, alone or combined. In treating challenging cases, apremilast has been used due to its lack of immunosuppressive effect. In case of progressive and refractory disease, limited data from studies suggest that immunosuppressive or biological therapy may be effective. Treatment of psoriasis in HIV patients remains a challenge, which is largely attributable to its complicated etiopathology and lack of an approved therapy option. In treating severe psoriasis, close collaboration with an infectious disease specialist is highly recommended. Further research is needed, preferably with an aim toward developing individualized therapy.