Is It Possible For An Abnormal Spot On The Body Suspicious Of Being Shingles To Be Due To HIV?

Posted on Tue, 8 May 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 9 May 2018 Answered on

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 Last reviewed on

Question : I’m 24 years old I have a quarter size spot under my right pec, I was told it was shingles, I have no fever or pain or any other symptoms, I just moved to a new home for my job it showed up upon the move and it’s been there for 6 days. I want to know how this is possible and should I be worried about HIV all internet research says young adults that get shingles is due to HIV

How is this possible?

Answered by Dr. salah saad shoman (7 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Not necessarily

Detailed Answer:
Dear sir,
I have gone through your question and I understand your concerns but shingles caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox which can occur in a wide range of individuals who don't have AIDS...

However, AIDS weakens the immune system and predispose to all kinds of infection not just shingles..

Also, I would like to review a picture of the affected area so that I can assist you better.. Kindly upload/attach a photo of the spot to be able to look further into this...

Shingles rash is usually painful or itchy and proceeded with numbness or tingling and affects various parts of the body...

I hope you'll find this helpful..

Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee

Follow up: Dr. salah saad shoman (32 minutes later)

Thank you, I have attached a photo.

Answered by Dr. salah saad shoman (31 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
I agree

Detailed Answer:
Dear sir, hello again..I agree that this rash is mostly due to shingles which is common among young adults and it might show recurrence in the future.. However, I would recommend that you apply Acyclovir cream three times daily to help relive the flare.. If painful, then you can apply lidocaine cream to ease the pain..

I hope you find this helpful..

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T