Abstract

Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) is a phenomenon associated with the use of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) for HIV infection. It results from restored immunity to previously ignored infectious or non-infectious antigens. IRIS is characterized by paradoxical worsening of a known condition or the appearance of a new condition after initiating therapy. The incidence of IRIS is unknown, but it is dependent on the population studied and its underlying opportunistic infectious burden. There are several clinical and immunological factors associated with development of IRIS. The current review summarizes the cutaneous manifestations of IRIS as overt inflammatory responses to various viral and bacterial infections as well as granulomatous reactions. Treatment depends on the underlying agent and its clinical presentation but HAART can usually be continued.