What is Kaposi's Sarcoma?
Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) is a rare type of cancer that develops from cells that line lymph or blood vessels. It typically appears as purple, red, or brown blotches or tumors on the skin, but can also affect internal organs.
Types of Kaposi's Sarcoma
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AIDS-related KS: Most common form in the United States
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Classic KS: Primarily affects elderly men of Mediterranean descent
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Endemic KS: Occurs in parts of Africa
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Iatrogenic KS: Associated with immunosuppressive therapy
Signs and Symptoms
Skin Manifestations
- Purple, red, or brown patches
- Raised lesions
- Painless spots that may grow into tumors
Other Symptoms
- Swelling in the legs or feet
- Difficulty breathing (if lungs are affected)
- Gastrointestinal problems (if digestive tract is involved)
Diagnosis
- Physical examination
- Skin biopsy
- Imaging tests (chest X-ray, CT scan)
- Blood tests for HIV status
Treatment Options
Local Treatments
- Cryotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Topical medications
Systemic Treatments
- Chemotherapy
- Immunotherapy
- Antiretroviral therapy (for AIDS-related KS)
Prevention and Risk Reduction
- Maintaining a strong immune system
- Regular HIV testing if at risk
- Adherence to HIV medications if positive
- Regular medical check-ups
Living with Kaposi's Sarcoma
- Regular monitoring of symptoms
- Following treatment plans consistently
- Protecting affected skin areas
- Seeking emotional support when needed
When to Seek Medical Care
- New skin lesions appear
- Existing lesions change or grow
- Development of new symptoms
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing