What are the skin symptoms of AIDS?
Generally, skin symptoms of AIDS include herpes zoster, cutaneous candidiasis, seborrheic dermatitis, genital warts (condyloma acuminata), psoriasis, and others. If any physical discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Herpes Zoster
Due to immune system damage caused by HIV infection, patients may develop herpes zoster—a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It manifests as a cluster of painful rashes along the skin area supplied by a single nerve ganglion. Patients can take medications such as acyclovir tablets, valacyclovir hydrochloride tablets, or famciclovir tablets under medical guidance to alleviate symptoms.
2. Cutaneous Candidiasis
Candida is a common fungus. When the immune system is compromised, Candida may infect the skin, oral cavity, throat, and other mucous membranes, causing white or creamy-colored rashes, usually accompanied by redness and itching. Under a doctor’s supervision, patients may use antifungal medications such as itraconazole capsules, fluconazole tablets, or terbinafine hydrochloride tablets for treatment.
3. Seborrheic Dermatitis
In individuals with HIV, the virus damages the immune system, reducing the body's resistance. This weakened defense may impair normal skin protection against various microorganisms, leading to infections. Symptoms include redness, itching, and flaking on the scalp, cheeks, and chest. Patients may be prescribed medications such as levocetirizine hydrochloride granules, loratadine tablets, or tacrolimus capsules according to medical advice.
4. Genital Warts (Condyloma Acuminata)
Viral infections can impair immune function. HIV specifically attacks and destroys CD4+ T cells in the body. As CD4+ T cell counts decline, the immune defense weakens, making patients more susceptible to various infections—including human papillomavirus (HPV) that causes genital warts. Under medical guidance, patients may use medications such as vitamin C tablets, imiquimod cream, or fluorouracil to help relieve symptoms.
5. Psoriasis
In people living with HIV, immunosuppression increases vulnerability to various infections and diseases, including skin disorders, which may exacerbate skin inflammation and worsen psoriasis symptoms. Patients may follow medical advice to use medications such as azathioprine tablets, cyclosporine soft capsules, or Yinxueling granules for treatment.
In daily life, it is recommended to consume foods rich in protein, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients—such as eggs, lean meat, tomatoes, apples, etc.—to replenish energy and support overall health.