What does an HIV rash look like? Photo: why it appears. Dermatological manifestations of HIV infection

It appears on the body already in the early stages of the disease. It is worth noting that damage to the dermis plays a special role in the symptom complex of the immunodeficiency virus. First of all, it is by these signs that the disease can be diagnosed. Therapists or dermatologists begin to sound the alarm when a patient with symptoms characteristic of AIDS comes for an appointment. In later stages, rashes, neoplasms and ulcers on the body do not always require special clinical studies. For example, Kaposi's sarcoma does not require a biopsy or scrapings, since an experienced specialist can diagnose it visually. Skin with HIV in this case has characteristic signs. The same can be said about most fungal infections. Let's consider the clinical manifestations of HIV skin diseases. Photos of some of them are provided for visual demonstration.

Fungal skin lesions in HIV infection

These manifestations occur in almost half of those infected with the immunodeficiency virus. The most common of them are candidiasis and mycoses. In the first case, not only the skin of HIV-infected people suffers, but also the mucous membranes of the mouth and genitals. If the infection is in the acute phase, then this disease may be accompanied by vaginitis and vulvitis, which do not respond to the classical treatment regimen. Fungi of the genus Candida can in this case spread to the inguinal folds. The symptoms of candidiasis are always pronounced. Visually, small rashes are visible on the damaged areas, covered with plaque, the shade of which varies from white to yellow. If not treated properly, this disease progresses rapidly. In place of harmless rashes that do not cause much discomfort at the initial stage, erosions and ulcers appear, which are accompanied by acute pain, itching and excessive burning. It is worth noting that such a manifestation of HIV on the body, a photo of it is presented on the page, is not typical for people without the immunodeficiency virus.

Mycoses are no less common skin diseases associated with HIV. The mycelium of this fungus affects not only the dermis. It quickly spreads to the nail plates, literally eating away at them and the skin underneath them. Some disseminated forms of this fungal infection can also spread to the hairy parts of the body, for example, the head. Mycosis lichen cuts off the hair from the affected surface, leaving ulcers and erosive lesions in its place. This manifestation of HIV on the skin is characterized by a severe course.

Mycotic lesions of the dermis can be deep. In this case, the patient becomes a victim of chromomycosis or streptococci. The presence of these concomitant diseases indicates a severe course of the immunodeficiency virus and its rapid progression. Such skin manifestations of AIDS require strict monitoring by the attending physician and constant maintenance therapy.

Bacterial manifestations of HIV on the skin

The most common bacterial skin lesion associated with HIV is staphylococcus. This disease is extremely rare in healthy adults. That is why, when diagnosing staphylococcus, a specialist has a good reason to refer the patient for additional examination to identify the immunodeficiency virus. Concern in this matter should also be caused by the fact that antibiotics and other antifungal drugs are not very effective and, despite their long-term use, the disease continues to increase in speed.

In addition to this symptom and skin manifestations of HIV infection (see photo), streptococcus can also be observed in patients with the immunodeficiency virus. Diseases with a similar symptomatic picture in advanced or untreatable cases often lead to abscesses. They are characterized by such signs of HIV and manifestations of AIDS on the skin as boils, cellulitis, ulcers, and so on. Small neoplasms often appear singly on one or another part of the body. The initial stage of the disease quickly turns into acute, which is characterized by large foci of rashes. Skin itching during HIV infection in this case is a secondary symptom. It can develop from staphylococcus. Most often, patients complain of aching or nagging pain in the affected area, lumbago. New growths on the skin with bacterial manifestations are always accompanied by purulent processes, which, if not properly cared for, can lead to infection of tissues and blood.

One of the worst bacterial skin diseases associated with HIV is syphilis. It is also severe in people without immunodeficiency syndrome, but in this particular case it can cause progression of the disease. The nature and course of this process in people not infected with AIDS is usually milder. Skin lesions caused by HIV infection spread quickly. Syphilis in this case affects areas of the body such as the face, feet, and palms. Ulcers resulting from the disease do not heal for a long time. They are difficult to treat. Medicines that help to successfully suppress the signs and manifestations of syphilis are often powerless in infected patients. Syphilis and its symptoms on the skin (see photo) in HIV patients can appear at the initial stage, actively progressing as it becomes acute. Treatment in this case should be carried out under the strict supervision of specialists. Moreover, in addition to potent antibacterial drugs, patients are prescribed to take medications that support the immune system affected by the virus. A photo of skin with HIV infection clearly demonstrates the severity of syphilis. Extensive lesions, as well as the resistance of this bacterial disease to drugs, can be a serious signal that the patient should be tested for AIDS.

AIDS is a rather unique disease, since its development can be accompanied by the appearance of various symptoms. Quite often, spots form during HIV infection, since a systemic decrease in immunity also contributes to the suppression of the protective properties of the skin. As a result, various elements and spots on the skin can form. With HIV, this is a fairly common occurrence.

The difficulty of diagnosing them lies in the fact that not every doctor will be able to connect their development with the progression of the retrovirus (the only symptoms that can come across are frequent relapses of diseases and their more aggressive course). In this regard, any person should know what spots appear on the body due to HIV or AIDS. Photos of them can be found in large quantities on the Internet, thanks to which you can familiarize yourself with the symptoms of these diseases in advance and diagnose them in a timely manner.

What diseases are most characterized by the appearance of spots?

Fungal diseases

Among this subgroup, the most common are rubrophytia, candidomycosis and lichen.

Quite a serious complication of immunodeficiency. It can occur with the formation of large, intensely colored zones over the entire surface of the body (in such patients, intravital HIV photographs show red spots on the body and legs). Their appearance indicates the progression of the retrovirus and the transition of the disease to the stage of immunodeficiency syndrome.

Seborrheic dermatitis

Skin rashes with HIV are a sign of the last stages of infection, that is, when they talk about. Skin diseases can be very different, the main ones we will consider below.

Kaposi's sarcoma in HIV

45% of HIV patients have Kaposi's sarcoma, of which only 15% have its classic variant.

Multiple spots, nodules and nodes appear, less often - tumors of a dense elastic consistency, brownish-red or bluish-purple in color. The lesions merge into infiltrated plaques, the surface of which is smooth. Plaques and tumors protrude above the level of the surrounding skin and can ulcerate to form long-term non-healing ulcers with a bloody-necrotic coating and a bumpy bottom.

Along with this, there are many hemorrhages (purpura, ecchymosis, hematomas). Swelling of the skin and subcutaneous tissue develops, making it difficult to move the limbs.

Features of the course of AIDS

Kaposi's sarcoma in HIV has a number of features. If in the classic version of sarcoma the rashes are localized in the distal parts of the extremities, then in AIDS - on the torso, head, and limbs.
The mucous membranes of the mouth are often affected, where purple spots and nodules appear. Much more often than with the classic version of sarcoma, the lymph nodes are involved in the process.

In 50% of HIV patients, seborrheic dermatitis develops, characterized by a severe course, the appearance of profuse pustular and papular rashes on the face, in the area of ​​natural folds, although the scalp is not affected. The rash often resembles psoriasiform lesions.

Sometimes seborrheic dermatitis is the earliest, and sometimes the only clinically pronounced sign of AIDS.

Candidiasis in HIV

Characteristic of AIDS is damage to the mucous membranes of the mouth and genital organs by fungi of the genus Candida, as well as disseminated candidiasis of the skin with atypical localization, numerous and frequent relapses.

Candidiasis of the mucous membranes

In AIDS, the cheeks, palate, tongue and genital mucosa are affected. Characterized by a white coating on a bright red background. The formation of erosions and ulcerations is possible, in the corners of the mouth - cracks or erosions, surrounded by an erythematous-edematous rim (jam). On the red border of the lips there are bleeding cracks, dry crusty scales and swelling (cheilitis). Sometimes yeast infection of the oral cavity is complicated by esophagitis.

Skin candidiasis

In HIV, skin candidiasis primarily affects large (inguinal-femoral, intergluteal, axillary) and small (interdigital) folds.

The skin is erythematous with a liquid tint, erosions with a shiny surface, surrounded by a fringe of exfoliating epidermis. Around the main focus are “dropouts”. The rashes can be erythematosquamous, vesicular, eczema- and psoriasis-like. Candidiasis of the skin caused by HIV is resistant to therapy, prone to relapse, and is often combined with other infections.

In a limited area of ​​hyperemic skin or mucous membrane, a group of small bubbles with transparent contents appears, which then becomes cloudy. After the bubbles open, erosions with finely scalloped edges are formed. The elements shrink into crusts. In AIDS, lichen simplex predominantly affects the perianal area, is characterized by a recurrent course, the occurrence of gangrenous and ulcerative forms, and often causes Kaposi's varicoceleform changes.

Herpes zoster in HIV

Shingles in AIDS, due to the immunodeficiency state, recurs and can take a generalized form. Possible fusion of pustular elements and the formation of large blisters with purulent contents. The rash is often located along the trigeminal nerve.

Molluscum contagiosum in HIV

Dense hemispherical nodules ranging in size from millet grains to cherry pits, the color of unchanged skin or slightly pinkish, with an umbilical depression in the center. When the element is compressed, a curdled mass (mollusc bodies) is released. With HIV, molluscum contagiosum is localized mainly in the anogenital area and around the mouth, and is characterized by a multiplicity of rashes (more than 100) and a recurrent course.

Other skin diseases associated with HIV

AIDS on the skin can also manifest itself as:

• Immune system disorders (anergy) lead to the occurrence of pyoderma caused by staphylococci and streptococci, especially severe, infiltrative-ulcerative forms and atypical variants prone to abscess formation, chancriform pyoderma.
• There are vasculitis with hemorrhages and nodular ulcerative skin lesions.
• Warts and genital warts often recur.
• Versicolor versicolor and dermatophytosis are severe. Patients with scabies develop generalized pruritic papulosquamous dermatitis. Zhiber's pityriasis rosea acquires a torpid course and can last up to 12 months.
• If AIDS develops in patients with psoriasis, then this dermatosis occurs with disseminated pustular rashes.
• Other skin diseases include the appearance of malignant cutaneous lymphomas (mycosis fungoides), reticulosarcomatosis, ichthyosiform lesions, pseudolupus syndrome, diffuse alopecia, etc.

HIV infection is a disease caused by immune deficiency. It attacks the patient's immune system, which is the body's natural defense. If a person is infected with HIV, it is more difficult for the body to fight infections.

HIV-infected patients with low white blood cell counts have been reported serious allergic reactions, manifested on the skin in the form of a rash and hyperemia, while high concentrations of leukocytes indicate skin diseases associated with hypersensitivity.

Understanding the nature of the cutaneous manifestations of HIV infection can help determine the patient's immune status.

Urticaria with HIV appears very sharply and suddenly:

1. Hives often occur at the site of injection (such as drugs).
2. Cold allergy is also associated with HIV infection and is sometimes one of the distinctive symptoms by which a specialist can determine that the patient is infected.
3. Seborrheic dermatitis occurs in many AIDS patients.
4. Psoriasis and reactive arthritis are also quite common among HIV patients. These diseases cause painful blisters or plaques to appear on the skin.
5. HIV-infected patients are very sensitive to sunlight; due to its exposure, they often develop sun allergies.

Therapy methods can only be prescribed by the attending physician. Urticaria is not the most pleasant disease associated with HIV; it only complicates the life of the infected patient.

The medications that the patient takes to maintain immunity are often interact negatively with antihistamines and glucocorticosteroids used in the fight against urticaria.

In this case, the specialist will most likely prescribe non-hormonal ointments(Fenistil-gel).

Also, HIV-infected patients with acute and severe forms of urticaria (blisters and plaques are inflamed) should be very careful, because often the inflammation and rash bleed.

This poses a risk for healthy people to become infected from an HIV-infected patient.

For the flu

Sometimes hives are the immune system's response to a recent infection, such as a cold or flu.

The disease sometimes occurs against the background of taking such drugs How:

• Tylenol;
• Aspirin;
• as well as many antipyretic compounds (Teraflu, Coldrex) if you are allergic to vitamin C.

Hives with flu not dangerous, symptoms usually subside within a few days (maximum week). If the rash is itchy, then you should use the non-hormonal drug Fenistil-gel, or take a Tavegil or Claritin tablet. In this case, you do not need to see a doctor.

For worms

In a study of 50 patients with chronic urticaria, blood samples (complete blood count) and eosinophil (a subtype of white blood cell) blood samples were taken to identify the allergen, as well as a stool sample. All patients had positive results for worms.

1. Itching in the anus (as well as hyperemia of the mucous membranes).
2. Dizziness.
3. Nausea and vomiting.
4. Slight increase in temperature.
5. Constipation or diarrhea.

If you have been tested positive for worms and have symptoms of hives, you should immediately consult an allergist.

When there are worms and urticaria, specialists prescribe to relieve symptoms, as well as anthelmintics(Helmintox, Nemozol, Pirkon). The course of treatment with anthelmintic drugs is about 14 days. And the symptoms of urticaria disappear on the second day.

Patients with giardiasis and urticaria developing against it experiencing the following symptoms:

• increased fatigue;
• nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite;
• diarrhea, bloating, flatulence, cramps;
• characteristic reddish rashes, the rash is often itchy, blisters are usually absent.

Episodes of urticaria are often correlated with the presence of Giardia lamblia in the stool.

Treatment Giardiasis completely relieves the symptoms of urticaria and includes:

1. Metronidazole is an antibiotic (may cause nausea).
2. Tinidazole is an analogue of metronidazole.
3. Nitazoxanide is a popular option for treating children and is available in liquid form.
4. Paromomycin - can be taken with caution during pregnancy.

For pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas. It is often accompanied by urticaria. It can manifest itself as an allergic reaction to drugs used to treat the disease, and can also become a symptom of jaundice. Jaundice is caused by a build-up of bilirubin in the blood and tissues of the body. The most obvious sign of jaundice is yellow skin and yellow whites of the eyes.

Under treatment urticaria with pancreatitis comprehensively. The main risk factor for developing pancreatitis is excessive alcohol consumption(which is also a common allergen) or the presence of gallstones.

Treatment of acute pancreatitis carried out in a hospital, and the goal is to relieve symptoms, the patient most often takes antibiotics, enzyme replacement (Mezim, Creon). Chronic pancreatitis is treated with antibiotics, pain medications, and changes in diet and vitamin supplements.

Symptoms of urticaria disappear with this therapy after a few weeks (up to a month).

Antihistamines and glucocorticosteroids are rarely prescribed by a doctor, since they interact negatively with drugs for the treatment of pancreatitis.

For candidiasis

Candidiasis is a fungal infection (common in women - thrush). Under normal conditions, the body can contain small amounts of this fungus, but there are times when it begins to multiply.

Most infections are caused by a type of fungus called Candida Albicans.

Typically, candidiasis is not a serious condition and responds well to treatment.

But ignoring symptoms and not seeking medical attention promptly can lead to potentially life-threatening problems, especially in those with weakened immune systems.

There are different types of candidiasis– intestinal, fecal, diffusion (in the intestines), perianal. It is intestinal candidiasis that is usually accompanied by urticaria. His symptoms include:

1. Chronic fatigue.
2. From the gastrointestinal tract: increased gas formation, bloating and cramps, rectal itching, constipation or diarrhea.
3. From the nervous system: depression, irritability, problems with concentration.
4. On the part of the immune system: the appearance of allergies and hypersensitivity to certain chemicals - a rash can occur in various parts of the body, but usually appears on the face, hands, or affects mucous membranes.

If you have candidiasis, it is important to seek medical help. The specialist will most likely will prescribe antifungal drugs(Flucostat, Fluconazole, Intraconazole, Diflucan), antifungal ointments(Clotrimazole, Pimafucin), as well as l medicines to restore intestinal flora(Linex, Bifidumbacterin, Baktisubtil).

While taking them, the symptoms of urticaria disappear within a few days. Taking antihistamines is not required.

For cholecystitis

May develop against the background of cholecystitis. This is an inflammation of the gallbladder. The most common symptom of acute cholecystitis is pain in the upper abdomen.

Other symptoms may include:

• shoulder blade pain;
• nausea, vomiting;
• fever.

All of these symptoms usually occur after eating fatty foods.

Since this is an infectious disease, it can cause hives in patients with allergies. Exacerbation of cholecystitis is often the cause of acute urticaria or Quincke's edema.

In this case, you should immediately consult a doctor. The specialist will prescribe a balanced diet, painkillers (mainly antispasmodics - No-shpa, Spazmolgon), as well as choleretic drugs.

To eliminate local inflammation of urticaria, non-hormonal ointments are prescribed - Fenistil-gel.

Urticaria with cholecystitis responds well to treatment, and allergic symptoms disappear within a few days (up to a week).

For hepatitis C

Hepatitis C virus is an infection that affects the liver. Chronic cases if left untreated can lead to liver failure.

Skin rashes can be a sign of hepatitis C and should not be ignored. Hives from hepatitis C can also be associated with liver damage or be a side effect of anti-hepatitis medications.

Against the background of hepatitis C, only acute form of the disease, but rarely it can develop into chronic.

Skin signs of acute viral hepatitis:

1. Acute urticaria is usually observed in patients with viral infections, including hepatitis A, B, C.
2. Hives are accompanied by fever, headache and joint pain.
3. The rash is usually red (sometimes burgundy) and blisters may appear.
4. If you develop hives due to hepatitis C, you should immediately consult an emergency doctor.

Exacerbation of hepatitis C usually lasts up to 6 weeks. Periodic episodes of urticaria may accompany the entire period of exacerbation. The rash develops within a few minutes and lasts for several hours, then subsides.

For acute hepatitis C, the best course of action to treat hives is taking antihistamines and the use of ointments and gels to relieve itching.

Chronic rashes are more difficult to treat due to the ongoing nature of the disease. The specialist will also advise To you:

• limit sun exposure;
• take a warm bath;
• Use body moisturizers and avoid laundry soap.

It is best to consult a doctor as soon as you notice any unusual skin changes.

For eczema

Eczema is a term for a group of conditions that cause irritation or inflammation of the skin. The most common type of eczema is atopic dermatitis. Unlike hives, the itching of eczema is not caused by the release of histamine. Eczema is more likely a consequence of urticaria than a concomitant disease.

Treatment can only be prescribed by a specialist (allergist, dermatologist). But, if the allergy-causing agent cannot be eliminated or identified, then steps to relieve an allergic reaction:

1. Apply non-steroidal creams (Hydrocortisone) to the affected areas along with anti-itch lotions (eg Calamine).
2. Benadryl in tablet form.
3. Corticosteroids.
4. Immunosuppressants are drugs that suppress the immune system (cyclosporine, azathioprine, methotrexate).
5. Immunomodulators (Elidel).

Eczema difficult to treat. It is especially unpleasant for teenagers due to its external manifestations.

This can lead to depression. In this case, you need to contact a psychotherapist for professional help.

Urticaria itself is not a serious condition. But often it can be accompanied by severe forms of other diseases.

To know exactly what measures need to be taken and what medications to use, consult your doctor. But remember that in most cases, the causes of hives are irritants, its symptoms are harmless, and are almost always temporary.

• Food;
• Cosmetical tools;
• Insect bites;
• Household chemicals;
• Certain medications;
• Synthetic things.

How does an allergy manifest in HIV infection?

The first signs of urticaria in a patient with HIV infection appear 3-5 weeks after infection.

Treatment of rash in infected patients

1. antihistamines;
2. anti-inflammatory drugs;
3. sorbents;
4. in rare cases, antibiotics and hormonal drugs;
5. homeopathic remedies.

"Video Symptoms of HIV"