Skin and mucosal lesions in the course of HIV infection

Abstract

Introduction:

Dermatological conditions are prevalent expressions of HIV and AIDS, often aiding in initial diagnoses due to their visibility on the skin and mucous membranes. Given HIV's primary transmission through sexual contact, dermatologists play a crucial role in identifying and managing these infections. Understanding the range of skin and mucosal lesions occurring throughout the course of the disease is vital, particularly as these symptoms can manifest in atypical ways or even precede other signs of immune deficiency. While most associated skin disorders can be treated in outpatient settings, some severe conditions significantly impact health outcomes.

Aim of the study:

The study aims to consolidate knowledge on the typical manifestations of HIV on the skin and mucous membranes, providing a comprehensive overview of these disease entities. The most common skin and mucosal symptoms associated with HIV infection are summarized and described.

Materials and methods:

The literature available in the PubMed database was reviewed using the following keywords: “HIV”, “AIDS”, “Skin lesions”, “Mucosal lesions”.

Conclusions:

Skin conditions are widespread in HIV-infected individuals, often displaying heightened severity compared to the general population. While many of these dermatological issues aren't unique to this group, their manifestations can be more pronounced. HIV-related skin problems vary widely, including specific eruptions linked to AIDS, opportunistic infections, and AIDS-related cancers. Although some HIV-associated skin diseases have decreased due to antiretroviral therapy, there's been a noticeable increase in drug reactions and other non-infectious skin conditions.