🌿 Skin Cancers in People Living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Infection 🌿

 


The association between Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and skin cancers has gained global attention due to the increasing life expectancy of HIV-positive individuals. With effective antiretroviral therapy (ART) improving immunity, the spectrum of malignancies in these patients has also evolved. Skin cancers, once rare, are now emerging as a major health concern requiring multidisciplinary care and early intervention.


🌞 1. Introduction to the Link between HIV and Skin Cancer

People living with HIV (PLHIV) experience chronic immune suppression, making them more susceptible to oncogenic viruses and abnormal cell growth. This weakened immunity reduces the body's ability to repair DNA damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation — a key trigger for skin malignancies.


🧬 2. Types of Skin Cancers Common in HIV Patients

  • Kaposi’s Sarcoma (KS):
    Often considered the signature cancer of HIV infection, caused by Human Herpesvirus-8 (HHV-8). It manifests as purple, red, or brown patches on the skin and internal organs.

  • Non-Melanoma Skin Cancers (NMSC):
    Includes Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) and Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC), which occur more frequently and aggressively in HIV-positive individuals.

  • Melanoma:
    Though less common, it poses a serious risk due to its metastatic potential and rapid progression.


🌿 3. Pathophysiology and Risk Factors

The interplay between immunosuppression, chronic inflammation, and viral co-infections forms the foundation for cancer development. Risk factors include:

  • Low CD4 cell count

  • Prolonged ART exposure

  • Sunlight (UV) exposure

  • Smoking and co-infections (e.g., HPV, HHV-8)


💊 4. Diagnosis and Clinical Management

Early detection is vital. Diagnosis often involves biopsy, dermoscopy, and histopathological evaluation. Management includes:

  • Antiretroviral therapy (ART) optimization

  • Surgical excision or radiotherapy

  • Immunomodulatory drugs

  • Regular dermatological screening for recurrence


🌈 5. Prevention and Future Directions

Preventive strategies focus on UV protection, lifestyle modification, and regular skin check-ups. Emerging research explores targeted immunotherapy and gene-based therapies to restore immune function and suppress oncogenic pathways.


🌍 Conclusion

Skin cancers in HIV-infected individuals highlight the need for integrated care, combining infectious disease management, oncology, and dermatology. With continuous awareness and medical innovation, the journey toward early detection and effective treatment continues to evolve — turning challenges into opportunities for healthier, brighter lives. 🌻

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