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

1. Epidemic (AIDS-related) Kaposi's Sarcoma: Seen in people living with HIV/AIDS; the most common form globally.

2. Classic Kaposi’s Sarcoma: A slow-growing form, typically affecting elderly men of Mediterranean or Eastern European descent.

3. Endemic (African) Kaposi’s Sarcoma: Found in some African regions, especially in children or adults without HIV.

4. Iatrogenic (Transplant-related) Kaposi’s Sarcoma: Occurs in patients who are immunosuppressed after organ transplantation.

5. 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