Dermatologic manifestations of human immunodeficiency virus disease

The skin may be the most commonly affected organ in patients with human immunodeficiency virus disease. As the body's natural immune mechanism deteriorates, susceptibility to bacterial, fungal, viral, and parasitic agents increases. This may be manifested in a variety of ways, ranging from pruritus and generalized xerosis to severe infections with opportunistic agents. It is important that all clinicians be aware of the dermatologic manifestations of the infection, because inspection may lead to early diagnosis of human immunodeficiency virus disease or early recognition of a life-threatening illness.