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Antihistamines are superior to topical steroids in managing human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-associated papular pruritic eruption
Journal
International journal of dermatology
Volume
49
Number
1
Pages / Article-Number
83-6
Abstract
Papular pruritic eruption (PPE) is a frequent HIV-comorbidity in tropical countries. Because of constant itching and social stigma, effective treatment is highly valued. In our HIV cohort in rural Tanzania with 12% prevalence of PPE, we have retrospectively analyzed responses to available treatments. Oral promethazine improved itching (P > 0.0058) and clinical scores (P > 0.032) significantly more than topical steroids. Disease activity did not correlate with CD4+ and CD8+ T cell counts and was independent of anti-retroviral medication. Therefore, oral antihistamines are an effective first-line treatment for PPE
