HIV Dermatology

How does HIV affect my skin?

If you're HIV positive, you're more vulnerable to a variety of skin issues and conditions. This means that you need to check your skin closely every day and see your Z-ROC Dermatology provider at the recommended, often more frequent, intervals.

It’s particularly important to contact your dermatologist if you notice new lesions, clusters of bumps, a new rash, unusual swelling, or any other significant changes.

How does herpes affect my skin?

If you're HIV positive, you're vulnerable to several kinds of herpes, including herpes simplex and herpes zoster. You're also more vulnerable to complications like Kaposi's sarcoma if you’ve contracted herpesvirus-8 (HHV-8).

Herpes tends to be cyclical, so you may have long periods where the virus is latent and you have no symptoms at all. However, infections can still occur later, particularly because HIV weakens your immune system.

Herpes symptoms usually present as a rash; for example, herpes simplex causes sores in your mouth or around your genitals, while herpes zoster causes a painful rash on one side of your body. Topical ointments is a popular treatment option.

What is Kaposi's sarcoma?

Kaposi's sarcoma is a type of cancer that occurs in patients who have either HHV-8 or a weakened immune system. Kaposi's sarcoma causes lesions, usually red or purple in color, to grow just below your skin, inside your mouth, and sometimes on your internal organs. Symptoms can include breathing problems and other potentially life-threatening issues.

Treatment depends on your specific case. There are many powerful tools available to fight Kaposi's sarcoma, including Mohs surgery to remove the lesions in precise and tiny increments. The experts at Z-ROC Dermatology also offer a variety of medication options, including topical ointments.

What is molluscum contagiosum?

Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection that's common in HIV-positive patients, and it's highly contagious. You can pass molluscum contagiosum through touch or even by touching the same object or using the same towel as someone else.

Molluscum contagiosum is fairly easy to recognize because it causes clusters of pink or flesh-colored bumps on your skin. Although molluscum contagiosum doesn't generally cause harm, it can be embarrassing and unsightly. Treatment options include the use of topical ointments.

If you’re experiencing an HIV-related skin condition or need a dermatological check-up, call Z-ROC Dermatology or book an appointment online.