Integrating Virtual Reality into Medical Education: Teaching Dermatological Aspects of HIV Through Immersive Simulation

^1,4,8Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Tampa, FL, USA

²Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Davie, FL, USA

^3,7Midwestern University Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine, Glendale, AZ, USA

⁵Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA

⁶Touro University California College of Osteopathic Medicine, Vallejo, CA, USA

*Corresponding author: Nicole Aust, MS, BS, Nova Southeastern University, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Tampa, FL, USA, Phone: 571-344-9310, Email: [email protected]

Received Date: June 18, 2025

Publication Date: June 30, 2025

Citation: Aust N, et al. (2025). Integrating Virtual Reality into Medical Education: Teaching Dermatological Aspects of HIV Through Immersive Simulation. Dermis. 5(4):42.

Copyright: Aust N, et al. © (2025).

ABSTRACT

Virtual reality (VR) is an immersive technology that allows users to engage in three-dimensional environments in real-time. This technology is rapidly gaining traction for its educational applications in the healthcare sector, especially through diagnosing dermatological manifestations particularly in HIV-positive patients. This paper aims to present a literature review highlighting how VR can be integrated into dermatological diagnoses and aid in prognostic outcomes specifically in HIV-positive patients. Detection of dermatological conditions in HIV can provide a good indication of disease progression, however, that can be difficult due to varying clinical presentations and similarity to those of other diseases. Early detection and differentiation of these lesions can lead to improved outcomes in patients suffering from this disease. VR technology can bridge this gap by providing an engaging learning platform for students - allowing for low-risk assessments of clinical cases and creating 3D visualizations of skin lesions that were previously limited to textbook pages. VR learning can enhance the education of healthcare professionals by providing a 3D experience that is standardized and reproducible where complex conditions can be explored. This development in education will lead to more accurate diagnoses and improved outcomes in patients. Overall, this literature review highlights how VR can resolve inconsistencies in medical education and can also provide more clinical exposure for students in low-income areas. Through continued development and integration of this technology in the healthcare field, students will be met with an elevated learning experience integrating improved spatial knowledge and refinement of clinical skills. This will then translate to enhanced quality of care for patients in the future.

Keywords: Virtual Reality, Kaposi Sarcoma, Skin Cancer, HIV Management, Dermatology