ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book reviews the spectrum of dermatologic manifestations associated with human immunodeficiency virus/ acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) ranging from infectious and neoplastic conditions considered pathognomonic for HIV/AIDS, to skin diseases seen in the general population but which often present atypically in this group. Skin diseases almost exclusively seen in HIV-infected patients such as Kaposi’s sarcoma and eosinophilic folliculitis were seen much more frequently before the advent of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). HAART-compliant patients have significantly reduced incidence of many skin diseases although they may develop medication-related side-effects which may affect the skin. Skin diseases are extremely common in HIV-infected individuals and, are often the first sign of infection. Biased and negative public perceptions about AIDS and HIV infection as well as lack of political interest delayed much needed research funding.
