Histopathologic features of HIV-associated skin disease

The cutaneous lesions that occur in individuals infected with the human immunodeficiency virus are often more severe than those in normal individuals. Of great importance is the fact that many common disorders may show atypical clinical and histologic features, which can lead to misdiagnosis and delayed or inadequate therapy. Therefore, knowledge of pitfalls combined with adequate biopsy and thorough histologic evaluation give the greatest chances of successful diagnosis and treatment.