HIV is a human immunodeficiency virus that gradually destroys the immune system, making it exceedingly difficult to ward off infections, Medline Plus asserts. As the virus progresses and without the appropriate treatment, HIV can develop into AIDS, the acquired immune deficiency syndrome. As the last stage of HIV, AIDS sufferers have extremely low immunity, where even the most common bacteria prove deadly. HIV often has characteristic skin conditions, which can warn of its presence. Anyone who suspects HIV should immediately contact a health care professional for the necessary testing.
Seroconversion Illness
Seroconversion illness usually emerges between two to four weeks after contraction of the HIV virus and exhibits a rash similar to that of measles or rubella, reports the Australasian College of Dermatologists. It starts on the upper portion of the body, such as the face and neck, as red spots. If the rash is evident on the palms as well, there may be noticeable peeling of the skin. This condition often accompanies a sore throat, fever, gland enlargement, headache and joint aching. Nevertheless, many other factors may cause these symptoms, which are not exclusive to HIV.
Herpes Simplex
Herpes simplex virus, or HSV, usually causes blistering and sores around the mouth and nose, but may appear anywhere on the skin, the American Academy of Dermatology affirms. Exposure to herpes simplex is quite common, The Australasian College of Dermatologists reports. Herpes simplex I usually cause recurring blisters around the nose and mouth, or "cold sores." Alternately, herpes simplex II propagates these sores around the genitals and buttocks. These lesions can heal within a seven to 14 day period, but with heightened sun exposure and infections, they can persistently appear without the proper treatment. In individuals with HIV, the frequency of occurrence and overall severity heightens. Healing often takes much longer and persistent and painful ulcers appear. The initial stages of a breakout include a burning and stinging sensation with the development fluid-filled blistering, the Australasian College of Dermatologists says. Although contracting herpes simplex doesn't necessarily mean HIV is present, severe or worsening outbreaks may indicate it as an underlying issue.
Fungal Infections
Although many people can easily contract a fungal infection, in those infected with HIV symptoms can quickly worsen if not treated immediately. Thrush, for example, is a yeast infection of the mouth in which white, curd-like patches proliferate on the tongue and the inner lining of the cheeks, says the Australasian College of Dermatologists. However, it can also induce an itchy red rash around the skin folds of the groin and under the breasts, eventually spreading toward the genitals and buttocks.
Tinea, commonly occurring as "athlete's foot" and "jock itch," is a fungal infection that can become quite progressive in those with HIV if not treated appropriately. Ringworm affects the skin, specifically on the scalp, groin or feet, according to Medline Plus. Often, there will be several patches of red, raised and scaly patchy rings with sharply defined edges. On the scalp, bald spots may develop as the ringworm infects hair follicles, causing the hair to fall out. The persistence and severity of these lesions is often worse in HIV-infected individuals. Since it is a widespread fungal condition, HIV may not be the culprit. However, if the condition worsens despite regular treatment, contact a medical professional for the appropriate testing.
Skin Cancers
Kaposi's sarcoma is an abnormal growth of blood vessel cells. It appears mostly in HIV infected men who engage in intercourse with other men and may be attributed to a sexually transmitted herpes virus, asserts the Australasian College of Dermatologists. They exhibit characteristic pink, dark red, purple to brown lesions, which can be flat or raised with extensive size varieties. Melanoma can occur in those with lowered immune systems, such as HIV-infected individuals, where normal moles change in color or shape, or new moles emerge with non-healing sores. Both cancers may indicate a deficient immune system response, such as HIV.
Other Skin Conditions
There are several other skin conditions, including other bacterial, viral or fungal infections, that can become persistent and severe over time despite regular treatment. This can be an indicator of an underlying immune suppression caused by conditions such as HIV. Contact a physician immediately if any of these skin lesions continue.
