Pruritic papular eruption in HIV.

Pruritic papular eruption (PPE) is characterized chronic pruritus and symmetric papular eruptions on the trunk and extremities with the absence of other definable causes of itching in an HIV-infected patient. PPE seems to be much more prevalent in less developed regions of the world. The etiology of this distressing condition is unclear, although an inappropriate response to an exogenous agent, such as arthropod bites, may underlie the pathogenesis. Identifying PPE's association with the immune dysregulation of HIV and distinguishing this condition from other pruritic disorders found in HIV-infected patients is important for optimal management.