Background: Psoriasis is a chronic, inflammatory disease affecting 2-3% of the worldwide population, and it may worsen with HIV or be detected as HIV cutaneous manifestation. HIV-related psoriasis shows a severe and prolonged clinical course with more frequent exacerbations. The management of this condition is challenging because immunomodulating and immunosuppressant agents may have variable and partial efficacy, and therefore, antiretroviral treatment represents a potential adjunctive therapeutic option.
Results: In the case we report, the HIV test was shown to be crucial for driving the therapeutic approach. Indeed, antiretroviral agents have been proven to be effective in the treatment of HIV+ psoriasis as first-line therapy.
Conclusion: The HIV test should be considered in high-risk patients affected by severe psoriasis and resistant to conventional and biological treatments.
Copyright © 2012 S. Karger AG, Basel.