Cutaneous manifestations of sexually transmitted disease in the HIV-positive patient

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) have been a medical and public health concern for generations. With the advent of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) pandemic, these have assumed an even greater significance as they may be more aggressive and may elude diagnosis. HIV has been shown to be synergistic with some STDs accelerating their progression and severity. It can likewise alter the clinical presentation of disease resulting in unusual phenotypes. On the other hand, STDs have also been shown to influence transmission of HIV. Early detection and treatment of STDs is therefore critical to preventing HIV spread. Dermatologists are particularly suited to this task due to the prominent cutaneous manifestations of many STDs. This chapter reviews common STDs and pays particular attention to the ways in which the disease interacts with HIV.