Kaposi Sarcoma

Origin and Causes

Kaposi's Sarcoma is a skin tissue cancer that represents 1% of all sarcomas. Reactivation of the HHV8 virus is responsible for the occurrence of this sarcoma. Kaposi's Sarcoma can be associated with HIV. It occurs more frequently in patients of Mediterranean or African origin.

Symptoms and Signs

Kaposi's Sarcoma often presents as raised, purplish to blue skin lesions, sometimes ulcerated on the soles of the feet. Lesions can also be found on the legs, arms, and trunk. In more advanced cases, metastatic involvement of the lymph nodes and lungs can be observed.

Diagnosis

When a Kaposi's Sarcoma is suspected, the initial evaluation includes a biopsy of the suspected area. The investigation can be completed with a CT scan of the thorax and abdomen if clinically indicated.

Treatment

When a synovial Kaposi's Sarcoma is localized, the treatment of choice is surgery with the goal of removing it all. In cases that are not operable or very extensive, radiotherapy or chemotherapy may be considered. The choice agents are liposomal doxorubicin, paclitaxel, gemcitabine, and pomalidomide. Clinical trials may also be explored.

Follow-up

After diagnosis, patients with Kaposi's Sarcoma will be closely followed due to the risk of recurrence (when the cancer returns).