Localization of the skin rash
In spite of the weakened immune system, HIV-infected persons may experience a sudden appearance of a small spotty, nodular rash (so-called drug exanthema) immediately after and/or during the intake of various drugs. In such cases, it is particularly important to rule out other viral infections, such as measles, scarlet fever or Pfeiffer’s glandular fever. In addition to the maculopapular rash, HIV-induced allergic reactions to drugs can also lead to the death (necrosis) of skin areas.
These symptoms usually occur within the first four weeks after taking the drug and require immediate discontinuation of the drug. In addition, HIV patients can also develop an anular granuloma, a benign infectious skin disease. It manifests itself in growing, reddish, coarse nodules (papules) that appear on the back of the foot and hand and above the joints and are ring-shaped.
How long does the rash last?
The skin rash of a fresh HIV infection, as well as the other unspecific symptoms such as fever or swelling of the lymph nodes, usually does not last longer than two weeks. However, these symptoms are often not noticed because they do not always occur or do not occur all together. The severity and duration of the rash can also vary from person to person.
The skin rash on the back, abdomen or chest usually appears a few days after infection with the HI virus. The viruses multiply at a rapid rate and the rash is a sign of the body’s own defence cells trying to fight the HI viruses. Since a skin rash is not specific for an HIV infection, but can also occur in many other viral infections, it is particularly important to correctly assign the rash to an HIV infection at an early stage.
It is assumed that the risk of infection with the HI virus is very high in infected persons who are in the acute phase. For this reason, a skin rash should be examined immediately after adequate risk contact.
