Korean J Dermatol.  2017 Jan;55(1):45-48.

Intractable Pruritus: A Presenting Sign of HIV Infection

• Seong JY
• Kong SH
• Suh HS
• Choi YS

Abstract

To achieve early detection of HIV infection, physicians must be aware of symptoms related to HIV infection. Dermatologists, in particular, can play an important role, because more than 90% of patients infected with HIV will develop at least one type of dermatologic disorder, which may be the first indicator of the existence of infection. A 26-year-old male presented with a one-year history of intractable pruritus associated with multiple excoriations and small ulcers. Initially, his condition clinically resembled adult atopic dermatitis. However, no improvement was observed despite treatment including narrowband ultraviolet B (UVB), antihistamine, and topical and systemic corticosteroid. After a week, the patient developed seizures and was diagnosed with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma of the brain. HIV testing was performed, and the patient was revealed to be HIV-positive. He began highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), and the pruritus and skin condition improved dramatically. Herein, we report a case of HIV infection for which the presenting sign was intractable pruritus.

Keyword

Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS); Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV); Pruritus

MeSH Terms

Adult
Antiretroviral Therapy, Highly Active
Brain
Dermatitis, Atopic
HIV Infections*
HIV*
Humans
Lymphoma, B-Cell
Male
Pruritus*
Seizures
Skin
Ulcer