Rash Symptoms During Early HIV Infection

The rash that appears during the early stage of HIV infection primarily affects the head, face, neck, anterior chest, back, and limbs. In severe cases, it may spread across the entire body. It typically presents as red or reddish-brown maculopapular lesions; occasionally, it may appear purple or black. The rash is usually scattered, though sometimes lesions may coalesce into patches. Generally, these rashes are not markedly pruritic, though mild tenderness upon palpation may occur.