Primary HIV Infection

HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is more frequently transmitted through unprotected sex or sharing contaminated needles. Transmission from mother to fetus or through blood products has significantly declined in the United States.

Oral Thrush

Oral thrush is characterized by ulcers or lesions in the mouth caused by the yeast fungus Candida albicans. The lesions are painful, slightly raised, whitish in appearance, and cause a dry mouth.

Canker Sore (Aphthous Ulcer)

Canker sores (Aphthous ulcers) are very common. Typically, they are a shallow ulcer with a white or whitish/yellow base surrounded by a reddish border. This ulcer is seen in an individual with AIDS and is located in front and just below the bottom teeth.

Mycobacterium Marinum Infection on the Hand

This bacterial infection is caused by Mycobacterium marinum, and is not frequently seen (atypical). Marinum is a relative of the organism which causes tuberculosis. This lesion is often referred to as a swimming pool granuloma. Atypical mycobacterial infections may cause life-threatening disease in people with weakened immune systems (immunocompromised individuals).

Dermatitis, Seborrheic - Close-Up

This is a close-up of seborrheic dermatitis. Note the redness (erythema) and mild scaling. Individuals with AIDS frequently develop seborrheic dermatitis or other types of skin rashes, as seen in this person.

Dermatitis, Seborrheic on the Face

This is seborrheic dermatitis on the face. Note the redness (erythema) and mild scaling. Individuals with AIDS frequently develop seborrheic dermatitis or other types of skin rashes, as seen in this person who is HIV positive.

Molluscum on the Chest

These lesions are associated with the molluscum virus and are present on a person who has a weakened immune system (immunocompromised). Molluscum contagiosum are small, raised, pearly skin lesions caused by the molluscum virus, a member of the poxvirus family. They are seen frequently in children and less often in adults. In adults, they may be considered a sexually transmitted disease. Immunocompromised individuals may experience heavy outbreaks of these lesions, as seen in this photograph.

Molluscum Contagiosum on the Face

Molluscum contagiosum is most commonly seen in children, however it does occur in adults and may cause extensive infection in people with weakened immune systems (immunocompromised). In this photograph, multiple small molluscum are seen covering the cheek, upper neck, and in the sideburn.

Herpes Zoster (Shingles), Disseminated

Herpes zoster (shingles) normally occurs in a limited area that follows a dermatome (see the "dermatome" picture). In individuals with damaged immune systems, herpes zoster may be widespread (disseminated), causing serious illness. Herpes zoster is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox.

Immune System Structures

The immune system protects the body from potentially harmful substances. The inflammatory response (inflammation) is part of innate immunity. It occurs when tissues are injured by bacteria, trauma, toxins, heat or any other cause.