ABSTRACT
Background: HIV and hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections are common in sub Saharan Africa. HIV/AIDS is associated with a wide variety of cutaneous disorders which herald the onset of severe immunosuppression. In sub Saharan Africa; HBV is transmitted mainly horizontally through skin contact. Few studies if any have determined the prevalence of HBV infection among HIV sero-positive individuals with HIV - related cutaneous disorders. Objective: To determine the sero - prevalence of hepatitis B surface antigen among HIV - seropositive individuals with HIV- related cutaneous disorders.Setting: Tertiary referral Dermatology clinic; Muhimbili National Hospital; Dar es Salaam.Design and methods: Hospital based controlled study whereby consecutive patients with HIV - related cutaneous disorders were enrolled. After filling in a questionnaire and undergoing dermatological examination blood was drawn for HBsAg and HIV antibody screening. Adult and secondary school student blood donors were used as controls.Results: 384 patients with HIV-related skin lesions were enrolled into the study. 354 (92