English

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Mucocutaneous manifestations are extremely common and varied in HIV infected patients. The present study was done to know the overall prevalence of mucocutaneous manifestations in HIV infected patients and to know the frequency of individual manifestations. METHODS: A total of 150 HIV seropositive patients from voluntary counseling and testing center were included in the study. Detailed history, thorough physical examination and relevant investigations were done to confirm the mucocutaneous manifestations when present. RESULTS: Ninety two percent (92%) of 150 positives had mucocutaneous manifestations at presentation. Majority (75.34%) of the patients belonged to the age group 25 - 49 years and male to female ratio was 1.08:1. Oral candidiasis was the most common (33.33%) manifestation. Other common infectious conditions seen were HSV (16.67%) dermatophytosis (12.67%), genital candidiasis (9.33%), herpes genitalis (10%). Common non-infectious disorders included generalized xerosis and ichthyosis (14.66%), generalized hyperpigmentation (11.33%) and seborrheic dermatitis (6.67%). Hair and nail changes included diffuse alopecia (18%), trichomegaly (6.67%) and melanonychia (32%).Pruritic papular dermatitis was seen in 16%. INTERPRETATION AND CONCLUSION: This study thus emphasizes the need for dermatological evaluation of all patients with HIV infection for early management and improved quality of life.