The current card states that HIV patients are at an increased risk of developing skin cancer “particularly BCC,” but this oversimplifies the evidence and may mislead learners. While HIV infection is associated with increased rates of both BCC and SCC, the relative increase and clinical aggressiveness are significantly greater for SCC. Multiple dermatology sources (including Bolognia and recent epidemiologic studies) show that SCC is disproportionately increased in immunosuppressed populations—including HIV—where it presents with higher incidence, more rapid growth, increased recurrence after treatment, and a higher risk of metastasis. BCC incidence is also elevated, but to a lesser degree and without the same aggressive behavior.

To better reflect dermatology-relevant and exam-relevant data, the card should emphasize that SCC risk and aggressiveness are more markedly increased than BCC in HIV, rather than suggesting that BCC is the primary concern.