leukocytoclastic vasculitis and HIV

Hello all. Ive been suffering from leukocytoclastic vasculitis for over a month now and i read all over the net that HIV can cause this. Can HIV cause this 7 years after a possible infection? Or does it have to be a recent HIV infection?

Thanks to all who will answer. I really need your help for peace of mind.

[Gabe1982]

If you haven't tested for over seven years than i suggest you take a trip down to the local std clinic. the best thing to due is get tested.  if you've had a recent possible exposure than get tested 3 months after the last time you had sex.  whether you have any condition or NOT.

[needuropinion]

Thanks for your reply. I got tested for HIV 4 yrs ago (3 yrs after a possible infection) and it came back negative. But I just couldnt get it off my mind. I connect everything that's happening to me to HIV.

[Teak]

If you didn't contract HIV then HIV is not causing your leukocytoclastic vasculitis. See your doctor if you have a concern.  

[reidweaver]

There are many reasons for leukocytoclastic vasculitis.  If you are in a flare and developing ulcers, a punch biopsy with an immunofluorescent test will often determine what is causing this.  In my case, it was cutaneous polyarteritis nodosa.  Prednisone would control the flare as long as it was in my system, but as soon as it was out, another flare would begin.  My disease has been primarily hereditary (50% of my family has had autoimmune disease of some type) and stress.  Through treatment combining prednisone and Imuran I achieved nearly 5 years remission.  With my father's diagnosis of mesothelioma this year, my disease has returned.

Although vasculitis can be contained to skin, nerves and muscle, it is important to control it.  Staph infections in an ulcer can lead to very serious complications.  Some vasculitities are not contained to just the skin and can affect the gut and other organs.  Without treatment they can be fatal.  It is really important to determine if your vasculitis is a reaction to a medication or stress, or an indication of something more systemic.