Kaposi's Sarcoma

What is Kaposi's Sarcoma?

Kaposi's sarcoma is a form of skin cancer that can involve internal organs. It most often is found in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), and can be fatal.

Causes of Kaposi's Sarcoma

The exact cause of Kaposi's sarcoma is unknown, but the disease may be related to immunosuppression. Genetic or hereditary predisposition is also suspected.

Signs & Symptoms of Kaposi's Sarcoma

Kaposi's sarcoma produces pink, purple, or brown tumors on the skin, mucous membranes, or internal organs.

Diagnostic Tests

Many physicians will diagnose KS based on the appearance of the skin tumors and the patient's medical history. Unexplained cough or chest pain, as well as unexplained stomach or intestinal pain or bleeding, could suggest that the disease has moved beyond the skin. The most certain diagnosis can be achieved by taking a biopsy sample of a suspected KS lesion and examining it under high-power magnification. For suspected involvement of internal organs, physicians will use a bronchoscope to examine the lungs or an endoscope to view the stomach and intestinal tract.

Treatment

Kaposi's sarcoma is not curable, in the usual sense of the word, but it can often be effectively palliated for many years and this is the aim of treatment.

Radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and drug therapy with biological response modifiers are treatment options. but , lesions may return after these treatment.

Prevention Tips

Doing safe sex can prevent infection with HIV, which in turn prevents the development Kaposi's sarcoma.