There is a rash under the arm; could it be caused by HIV?
Disease description:
Recently, I noticed some rashes under my arms. They look like small red spots and sometimes feel slightly itchy. I'm worried this might be one of the symptoms of HIV infection, as my lifestyle has been somewhat chaotic lately, and I may have engaged in some unsafe sexual behaviors.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Rash is a common symptom of HIV infection, especially during the acute and late stages. However, rash alone cannot be used as a definitive basis for diagnosing HIV infection, as many other diseases and conditions can also cause similar small red spots on the skin. These include, but are not limited to, allergic reactions, drug side effects, viral infections (such as chickenpox and measles), fungal infections, and certain autoimmune diseases.
It is recommended that patients first undergo a dermatological examination to determine the specific cause of the rash. If there is concern about HIV infection, an HIV antibody test can be performed to confirm whether infection is present. Meanwhile, maintaining good lifestyle habits and a strong immune system, and avoiding high-risk behaviors are effective measures for preventing HIV infection. If diagnosed with HIV infection, early initiation of antiviral treatment is advised to control disease progression.
