Disease
Kaposi’s Sarcoma
Overview of Kaposi’s Sarcoma
Kaposi’s Sarcoma is a rare type of cancer that develops from the cells lining lymph or blood vessels. It is most commonly associated with immunocompromised individuals, especially those living with HIV/AIDS. It appears as tumors on the skin, inside the mouth, or other organs. The disease is caused by infection with the Kaposi’s Sarcoma-associated Herpesvirus (KSHV), also known as Human Herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8). While not everyone infected with the virus develops cancer, those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk.
Types of Kaposi’s Sarcoma
- Epidemic (AIDS-related) Kaposi’s Sarcoma: Seen in people living with HIV/AIDS; the most common form globally.
- Classic Kaposi’s Sarcoma: A slow-growing form, typically affecting elderly men of Mediterranean or Eastern European descent.
- Endemic (African) Kaposi’s Sarcoma: Found in some African regions, especially in children or adults without HIV.
- Iatrogenic (Transplant-related) Kaposi’s Sarcoma: Occurs in patients who are immunosuppressed after organ transplantation.
- Non-epidemic Kaposi’s Sarcoma: Rare and occurs in people without obvious immune deficiency.
Symptoms of Kaposi’s Sarcoma
- Purplish, reddish, or brown skin lesions or nodules
- Swelling in legs or face due to lymphatic blockage
- Lesions inside the mouth or throat
- Respiratory symptoms if lungs are involved
- Gastrointestinal bleeding or discomfort when internal organs are affected
- Lesions may be painless or painful depending on location
Causes of Kaposi’s Sarcoma
- Infection with Kaposi’s Sarcoma-associated Herpesvirus (KSHV/HHV-8)
- Immune suppression (especially in HIV/AIDS or post-transplant patients)
- Genetic predisposition in certain ethnic groups
- High viral load of KSHV in some individuals
Complications in Kaposi’s Sarcoma
- Severe pain or bleeding from internal lesions
- Opportunistic infections due to immune suppression
- Organ damage (lungs, liver, digestive tract)
- Psychological distress or stigma from visible lesions
- Risk of secondary infections and treatment side effects
Risk Factors of Kaposi’s Sarcoma
- Being HIV-positive, especially with low CD4 count
- Organ transplant recipients on long-term immunosuppressants
- Men of Mediterranean, Middle Eastern or African descent
- Sexual contact with someone infected with KSHV
- Living in or traveling to endemic areas
Preventions of Kaposi’s Sarcoma
- Early and effective antiretroviral therapy (ART) in HIV-positive individuals
- Safe sex practices to reduce transmission of KSHV
- Screening and monitoring in transplant patients
- Avoidance of unnecessary immunosuppressants
- Community education about transmission and symptoms
Diagnosis of Kaposi’s Sarcoma
- Physical examination of skin and oral lesions
- Biopsy and histopathological analysis of lesions
- PCR test to detect KSHV DNA
- Imaging tests (CT scan, endoscopy) for internal involvement
- Blood tests to assess immune status (CD4 count in HIV)
Treatments of Kaposi’s Sarcoma
- Antiretroviral therapy (ART) for HIV-positive patients
- Chemotherapy for widespread or aggressive disease
- Radiation therapy for localized lesions
- Topical treatments for skin lesions
- Immunotherapy in select cases
- Management of pain, swelling and secondary infections
Prognosis of Kaposi’s Sarcoma
- Good prognosis when caught early and managed with ART
- Long-term remission possible with proper treatment
- Prognosis varies with immune status and extent of spread
- Monitoring is essential to prevent recurrence or complications
Care at MyhealthMydoctor
- Expert oncologists and infectious disease specialists
- Personalised treatment plans combining cancer care with immune support
- Assistance with diagnosis, biopsy and staging
- Ongoing support for HIV/AIDS management if applicable
- Compassionate care that focuses on emotional and physical well-being
Some Important Questions Patients Should Ask Their Doctor During a Consultation
- What type of Kaposi’s Sarcoma do I have?
- Is it linked to HIV or another condition in my case?
- What are my treatment options and success rates?
- Will the lesions go away completely with treatment?
- Can Kaposi’s Sarcoma come back after treatment?
- How will you monitor my response to therapy?
- Should my family members be tested for KSHV?
What Patients Expect from Doctors During Consultation?
- Clear explanation of disease type and stage
- Guidance on treatment timelines and outcomes
- Honest discussion about HIV or immune-related risks
- Emotional reassurance and psychological support
- Continued follow-up and monitoring plans
- Integration with HIV care or transplant follow-up, if needed