skin rash

[indie573]

I have a rash on arms, insides leg,lower back, and hands, I am afraid could be related to acute hiv rash.Can you help?


This discussion is related to Yeast infection rash.

[Vanessa Lacuesta]

Hi,

This sounds like a generalized rash. The presence of generalized rash suggests an underlying systemic disease.The more common causes are bacterial and viral infections.Although autoimmune disease and allergic reactions also present with a generalized rash.

I just have a few questions:

Would you be able to describe the rash?

Is it reddish, violaceous or skin colored?

Are they flat or elevated? Are they itchy or painful?

Are there any ulcerations, excoriations or discolorations?

What made you think this could be due to an HIV infection? Any significant history that points towards this?

[indie573]

Well I have had unprotected sex, but was on predisone for another rash under my arms, I had alot of itching, chronic, but it subsided, also had small red bumps, and some discoloration and the it just changes to real dry itchy skin, on arms, inside of knee, stomach, and lower back, My skin is irritable now because it is really dry. Maybe I'm stressing too much I don't know, but I will be getting tested.

[Vanessa Lacuesta]

The rash appears to be generalized and it seems that dryness is a primary factor here. This may be due to an underlying dermatitic condition. Irritant, allergic and contact dermatitis come into mind when one mentions dryness and itchiness. However in your case, other causes have to be considered given a significant sexual history.

I suggest that you have blood tests done to rule out STD's. Also, a complete blood count may be necessary. Allergic reactions may still be considered.  Do you have any previous history of allergies before?

Antihistamines may help at this point just to temporarily relieve your symptoms. Discuss this with your physician. I know you are anxious about this but in your case, there are several differentials. The more common ones such as dermatitis and allergies should be considered first.