Unusual cutaneous cytomegalovirus involvement in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome.

Two patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome presented unusual keratotic cutaneous lesions with a protracted course. Pathologic examination in both patients, cultures, and DNA hybridization techniques of skin biopsy specimens in the second patient were characteristic of cytomegalovirus cutaneous infection. Cytomegalovirus skin lesions are rarely described in acquired immunodeficiency syndrome in contrast with the high frequency of ocular and visceral involvement. Skin biopsy specimens may lead to early diagnosis of cytomegalovirus disseminated disease and to specific treatment.