HIV, UV and immunosuppression.

Cutaneous diseases are common manifestations of infection with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Phototherapy with ultraviolet B (UVB) and photochemotherapy with 8-methoxypsoralen plus UVA (PUVA) have been used successfully to treat several of these skin conditions, including psoriasis, folliculitis, pruritus, and eczema. However, in view of the known immunosuppressive effects of UV radiation, concerns have been raised about potential adverse effects of UV on persons infected with HIV. In the following report, we review the effects of UV in HIV-infected cell lines in vitro, in animal models, as well as in human studies. Based on currently available data, UV radiation, as used in phototherapy and photochemotherapy, appears to have no adverse effects in HIV-infected individuals.