Resolution of Disseminated Molluscum Contagiosum and Kaposi Lesions With Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) in an HIV Patient

TL;DR

An HIV patient's skin conditions improved significantly after starting antiretroviral therapy, showing the treatment's effectiveness in managing related diseases.

Contribution

This case demonstrates that HAART alone can resolve both Kaposi's sarcoma and molluscum contagiosum in HIV patients.

Findings

Complete resolution of KS and MC lesions occurred within six months of HAART initiation.

CD4 count increased from 31/mm³ to 218/mm³ after six months of treatment.

The patient remained in remission for two years with stable immune function.

Abstract

Dermatologic disorders are common in people living with HIV (PLHIV), with Kaposi’s sarcoma (KS) and molluscum contagiosum (MC) being strongly associated with immune status. We report the case of a 48-year-old male individual newly diagnosed with HIV, presenting with necrotizing cytomegalovirus retinopathy and tuberculosis. He developed multiple erythematous-violaceous macules on the trunk, arms, and face, confirmed as KS on biopsy, along with numerous umbilicated papules consistent with MC. His initial CD4 count was 31/mm³. The patient was started on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) without additional interventions. Within six months, complete resolution of both KS and MC lesions was observed, with a CD4 count increase to 218/mm³. Two years post-diagnosis, the patient remains in remission with stable immune function. This case highlights the efficacy of HAART alone in treating both viral and tumoral dermatologic manifestations in HIV patients. Early initiation of HAART plays a pivotal role in disease resolution and overall prognosis.

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