What does it mean when a person with AIDS has small red spots on their body?

Generally, small red spots on the skin of AIDS patients may be caused by skin irritation, pressure purpura, folliculitis, drug rash, or Kaposi's sarcoma. Patients can choose appropriate management methods such as general care, medication, or surgical treatment based on their specific conditions. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Skin Irritation

Contact with allergens or irritants such as low-quality clothing or detergents may trigger a skin stress response leading to red spots. Switch to loose cotton clothing, clean the skin gently with mild water, and avoid scratching.

2. Pressure Purpura

Sudden increases in vascular pressure due to severe coughing or vomiting may cause blood vessels to rupture, resulting in leakage of blood and formation of red spots. Avoid strenuous physical exertion and increase intake of fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C to promote vascular repair.

3. Folliculitis

Reduced immunity may lead to bacterial infection of hair follicles, causing red inflammatory papules. Topical treatments such as mupirocin ointment or fusidic acid cream may be used under medical guidance, along with oral cefuroxime axetil tablets.

4. Drug Rash

Allergic reactions caused by antiretroviral medications or other drugs may result in diffuse red spots on the skin. Discontinue the suspected allergenic drug immediately and take antihistamines or corticosteroids such as loratadine tablets, cetirizine hydrochloride tablets, or prednisone tablets as directed by a physician.

5. Kaposi's Sarcoma

Infection of vascular endothelial cells by HIV-related viruses leads to the development of reddish-purple spots or plaques. Localized radiotherapy may be performed, combined with systemic chemotherapy using doxorubicin injection, vincristine injection, or bleomycin injection.

Maintain clean and dry skin in daily life, and use gentle skincare products and clothing. Strictly follow medical advice for medication and undergo regular check-ups for immune function and skin condition. Avoid self-medication when red spots appear; seek timely medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and receive targeted treatment.