Non-neoplastic cutaneous manifestations of HIV infection in patients from a community-based clinic in Puerto Rico

Abstract: Background: Although skin conditions are frequent in people living with HIV (PLWH), no prior studies have described them in Puerto Rico. This study assesses non-neoplastic cutaneous conditions in PLWH at a community clinic. Methods: We performed a cross-sectional analysis of 1,000 PLWH treated from January 2019 to December 2024. Sociodemographic, clinical, and dermatologic data were extracted from electronic records. Descriptive and bivariate analyses (Chi-square or Fisher’s exact) were conducted with p<0.05 considered significant. Results: Non-neoplastic skin conditions were identified in 19.1% of participants (241 diagnoses). The most common were herpes simplex virus (5.3%), dermatitis (2.8%), and warts (2.5%). Longer duration of HIV infection was significantly associated with skin conditions (p=0.004). No associations were found with sex, age, CD4 count, or viral load. Conclusion: Non-neoplastic dermatologic conditions remain prevalent among PLWH in Puerto Rico. These findings support incorporating routine dermatologic assessment into HIV care.