Kaposi's sarcoma: a very rare tumor
From clinical characteristics to treatment strategies, here’s what you need to know about Kaposi’s Sarcoma
What is Kaposi’s Sarcoma?
Kaposi’s Sarcoma (KS) is a rare tumor linked to the human herpes virus 8 (HHV-8), also known as Kaposi’s Sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV). This type of tumor can appear in various forms: classic, endemic, iatrogenic, and epidemic, often associated with HIV. Although it mainly manifests on the skin, KS can also affect moist linings and internal parts of the body, such as the stomach and respiratory tract. In HIV-positive situations, KS is usually one of the most common tumors encountered.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Kaposi’s Sarcoma can present with many symptoms. The main symptom is represented by cutaneous growths. These growths are thick and can be red, brown, or purple. They may start flat but can grow into painful bumps. Some growths may also appear in the mouth. If the disease spreads, it can cause other problems such as pain, malaise, weight loss, and respiratory difficulties. To determine if a person has Kaposi’s Sarcoma, doctors examine the cutaneous growths. They may take a small piece to study under a microscope. They will also perform an HIV test, as this virus increases the risk. Scans like ultrasound and CT scans help to see if the tumor has spread inside the body.
Treatment of Kaposi’s Sarcoma
Treatment for the disease varies greatly. It depends on the type and stage of the disease. Sometimes, if KS is only on the skin, local treatments like surgery or radiation are used. However, in severe cases or when the patient’s immune system is weak, such as in HIV-positive patients, antiviral drugs and antitumor medications are used. Patients’ life expectancy can vary greatly. It ranges from 70% to 90% in the early years after discovery, depending on the type of disease and the treatment administered.
Prevention and Future Perspectives
In the past 25 years, improved HIV treatments have helped reduce the number of Kaposi’s Sarcoma (KS) cases. However, people with HIV still have a higher risk of contracting KS compared to those without HIV. Managing KS requires the collaboration of a diverse team of doctors. This team should include skin doctors (dermatologists), cancer doctors (oncologists), infectious disease doctors (infectiologists), and other experts. Each person’s treatment and follow-up care should be personalized specifically.
Sources