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Definition Return to top
Kaposi's sarcoma is a malignant tumor of the connective tissue, often associated with AIDS.Causes, incidence, and risk factors Return to top
Before the AIDS epidemic, Kaposi's sarcoma was seen primarily in elderly Italian and Jewish men, and rarely, in elderly women. Among this population the lesions developed slowly. In AIDS patients, it can develop aggressively and involve the skin, lungs, gastrointestinal tract, and other organs.
In people with AIDS, Kaposi's sarcoma is caused by an interaction between HIV, immune system suppression, and human herpesvirus-8 (HHV-8). Occurence of Kaposi's sarcoma and has been linked to sexual transmission of HIV and HHV-8.
The tumors consist of bluish-red or purple lesions on the skin. They may first appear on the feet or ankles, thighs, arms, hands, face, or any other part of the body.
Symptoms Return to top
Signs and tests Return to top
The following tests may be performed to diagnose Kaposi's sarcoma:Treatment Return to top
Treatment decisions depend on the extent and location of the lesions, as well as the person's symptoms and degree of immunosuppression. Antiviral therapy against the AIDS virus can shrink the lesions.
Radiation therapy or cryotherapy can be used for lesions in certain areas. Combination chemotherapy may also be used. However, lesions may return after treatment.
Expectations (prognosis) Return to top
Treatment and remission of Kaposi's sarcoma does not improve the chances of survival from AIDS itself. The outlook depends on the immune status and HIV viral load of the patient.
Complications Return to top
Kaposi's sarcoma can involve the lungs and cause significant symptoms, including cough and shortness of breath. This diagnosis is made by a CT scan of the chest and a bronchoscopy. The tumors can return even after apparently successful treatment. Kaposi's sarcoma can be fatal for a person with AIDS.
Prevention Return to top
Safe sexual practices can prevent infection with HIV, which in turn prevents the development of AIDS and its complications, including Kaposi's sarcoma. Update Date: 8/12/2004 Updated by: Stephen Grund, M.D. Ph.D., Chief of Hematology/Oncology and Director of the George Bray Cancer Center at New Britain General Hospital, New Britain, CT. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |