Kaposi Sarcoma (KS): A Form of Cancer

Did You Know? In the United States, KS is more common in men

HIV/AIDs Related Cancer  

The 1990s AIDS Epidemic, Ignited the Number of Diagnosed Kaposi Sarcoma (KS) Cases

Knowledge is power! By arming yourself with current data, facts and updated information around various diseases, patients are able to decrease their risk in developing other diseases associated with HIV/AIDS. Such as Kaposi Sarcoma (KS) which is an AIDs related cancer.  

This guide is intended to help inform a patient on what Kaposi Sarcoma is, the various types, signs and symptoms and common treatment options.   

01 | What is Kaposi Sarcoma (KS)?   

Kaposi Sarcoma (KS) is a type of cancer that slowly develops causing tissue to grow beneath the skin or on the skin. These growths, or tumors, can create open wounds on a person’s legs, face, and sometimes can form in the mouth, lungs or intestines.  

02 | Types of Kaposi Sarcoma (KS) 

KS affects various populations across the world differently; however maintain similarities on a cellular level.  The different types of KS are:

• Epidemic  - AIDS related
• Classic – commonly affecting individuals residing in the Mediterranean region
• Endemic - commonly affecting individuals residing in Africa region
• Iatrogenic - transplant related
• KS in HIV negative men

03 | Signs and Symptoms 

Symptoms of KS vary depending on the type of KS. Lesions (open sores) can develop inside or outside of the body. Generally are found on the legs, arms or face. Lesions can also develop in the following areas:

• Throat
• Lungs
• Intestines
• Eyelids

 Lesions can cause the following symptoms:  

• Bruising in the area a lesion has formed
• Bumps
• Shortness of breath – if formed in the lungs
• Bleeding
• Anemia

04 | Treatment   

There are treatments that can improve a person’s immunities to protect the body from KS, additional growths, and lesions. Some options that may be recommended by your medical provider include:

• Local therapy
• Radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Biologic therapy

Consult with your medical provider to discuss treatment options and to establish a roadmap for care.  

For additional resources and information on Kaposi Sarcoma (KS), please visit: http://www.cancer.org/cancer/kaposisarcoma/detailedguide/index  

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References

http://www.webmd.com/hiv-aids/guide/aids-hiv-opportunistic-infections-kaposis-sarcoma__#2

http://www.webmd.com/osteoarthritis/guide/tennis-elbow 

https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/kaposissarcoma.html