Classic
Kaposi's Sarcoma (KS) is a rare type of cancer that primarily affects the skin, but can also involve the mouth, lymph nodes, and other organs. It is characterized by the abnormal growth of blood vessels, leading to red or purple patches on the skin. Classic KS is one of the four types of Kaposi's Sarcoma, the others being AIDS-related, immunosuppressive therapy-related, and African endemic KS.
Classic KS predominantly affects older adults, especially those of Mediterranean, Eastern European, and Middle Eastern descent. Men are more likely to be diagnosed with classic KS compared to women. Unlike the AIDS-related form, classic KS is not associated with HIV infection.
The primary cause of classic KS is infection with the
Human Herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8), also known as Kaposi's Sarcoma-associated Herpesvirus (KSHV). However, not everyone infected with HHV-8 will develop KS. The virus is thought to be transmitted through saliva and possibly sexual contact.
Clinical Presentation and Symptoms
Patients with classic KS typically present with painless, red, purple, or brown lesions on the skin, often on the lower extremities. These lesions can vary in size and may coalesce into larger plaques or nodules. Over time, they can become painful or ulcerated. Lymph node involvement can lead to swelling, and if internal organs are affected, symptoms can vary depending on the organ involved.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of classic KS involves a combination of clinical examination and histopathological analysis. A biopsy of the suspicious lesions is necessary to confirm the diagnosis. Imaging studies such as
CT scans or
MRI may be required to assess the extent of internal organ involvement.
Treatment Options
Treatment for classic KS depends on the extent and severity of the disease. For localized lesions, options include surgical excision, cryotherapy, or radiation therapy. Systemic treatments for more widespread disease may include chemotherapy or targeted therapy with agents such as
interferon-alpha or liposomal anthracyclines. The use of antiviral therapy to suppress HHV-8 is also being explored.
Prognosis
The prognosis for patients with classic KS varies. It tends to be a slow-progressing disease, and many patients live for years with the condition. However, the disease can become more aggressive and life-threatening if it involves internal organs or if the immune system is compromised.
Prevention
Preventing HHV-8 infection is challenging due to its modes of transmission. However, maintaining good overall health and immune function can reduce the risk of developing KS. Regular medical check-ups for high-risk individuals can lead to early detection and treatment of the disease.
Conclusion
Classic Kaposi's Sarcoma is a complex and rare type of cancer primarily affecting older adults of certain ethnic backgrounds. Understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatment options is crucial for managing the disease effectively. Ongoing research continues to improve our knowledge and therapeutic approaches for this challenging condition.
