An HIV rash generally refers to a skin reaction that shows up when you are initially infected with HIV.
Certainmedications used to treat HIVcan also cause skin eruptions.
Acute Seroconversion Rash
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U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health
Even so, viruses circulating in the blood will continue to progressively deplete the immune system.
One rash that commonly occurs during this stage is called apruritic popular eruption(PPE) of HIV.
This small, itchy rash is often the only sign of HIV in an otherwiseasymptomaticperson.
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Women are affected more than men, as are people who live in tropical climates.
Symptoms of PPE include:
Topical steroidsandoral antihistaminesmay help control symptoms.
People not yet placed on antiretroviral therapy should be started immediately.
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These immune defenders help the body fight fungal or parasitic infections.
In people without HIV, the condition is known asOfujidisease.
Seborrheic Dermatitis
Reproduced with permission from DermNet New Zealandwww.dermnetnz.org2023.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNet New Zealandwww.dermnetnz.org2023.
The degree of immune impairment is measured by a blood test called aCD4 count.
At this stage, a person is said to beimmunocompromisedand to haveAIDS.
The rash tends to appear one to two weeks after the start of treatment.
Shingles (herpes zoster) of the chest.Fisle / Creative Commons license
Some have been known to develop within one to two days.
Antihistamines may be prescribed to reduce redness, itching, and swelling.
Both SJS and TEN trigger the widespread blistering and shedding of skin.
U.S. National Library of Medicine
When to See a Healthcare Provider
You should discuss any rash with your healthcare provider.
They may be able to provide treatments or recommend a medication change that can help resolve your symptoms.
It can also be because of a hypersensitivity reaction to medications used to treat HIV or HIV-related infections.
U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health
Depending on the cause, the rash may be managed with steroids, antibiotics, or antihistamines.
If the rash is the result of a drug reaction, HIV treatment is almost invariably stopped.
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