Kaposi's disease, also known as Kaposi sarcoma, is a rare type of cancer that affects the skin, mucous membranes, and other organs in the body. It is characterized by the abnormal growth of blood vessels, leading to the formation of purplish or reddish nodules or lesions on the affected areas. The disease is named after Moritz Kaposi, the Hungarian dermatologist who first described it in 1872, although it was further classified into several different forms later on.
Kaposi's disease can occur in various forms, including classic, endemic, iatrogenic, and epidemic, each associated with different risk factors and patterns of occurrence. The classic form primarily affects elderly men of Mediterranean, Eastern European, or Middle Eastern descent. Endemic Kaposi's disease is mostly found in sub-Saharan Africa, primarily affecting children and young adults. Iatrogenic Kaposi's disease occurs in individuals with weakened immune systems due to organ transplants or immunosuppressive therapy. Lastly, epidemic or AIDS-associated Kaposi's disease is the most common form seen in individuals with HIV/AIDS.
The cause of Kaposi's disease is linked to a virus called human herpesvirus-8 (HHV-8) or Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV). HHV-8 is transmitted through sexual contact, blood transfusions, or organ transplantation. The disease can affect multiple organs, including the skin, lymph nodes, lungs, gastrointestinal tract, and liver. Symptoms may include the appearance of visible lesions, pain, swelling, and difficulty breathing, depending on the organs affected.
Treatment options for Kaposi's disease depend on the extent of the disease and the individual's overall health. They may include
