Kaposi sarcoma

Skin | Oncology | Kaposi sarcoma (Disease)


Description

Kaposi sarcoma is a spindle-cell tumor thought to be derived from endothelial cell lineage. This condition carries a variable clinical course ranging from minimal mucocutaneous disease to extensive organ involvement. Kaposi sarcoma can be primarily categorized into four types: epidemic of AIDS-related, immunocompromised, classic or sporadic, and endemic (African).

Causes and Risk factors

This entity occurs in patients with advanced HIV infection and is the most common presentation of Kaposi sarcoma. It is the most common malignancy seen in HIV-infected patients, especially where access to HAART (highly active antiretroviral therapy) is limited. AIDS-related Kaposi sarcoma is the most clinically aggressive form of Kaposi sarcoma.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Therapy for Kaposi sarcoma depends on the patients overall health and the extent of the disease. Standard treatment options include: radiation therapy, surgery, chemotherapy and immunotherapy. ...