Kaposi’s sarcoma

Kaposi’s sarcoma is a neoplasm which occurs only in patients whose immune system has been compromised, particularly HIV patients where it is often the first symptom of AIDS. However, it can appear in transplant patients and there is also an endemic form in sub-Saharan Africa which is correlated to an HHV-8 infection. Kaposi’s sarcoma in the oral cavity presents as a red-bluish patch, more rarely brown or black, being localized in the palate in more than 90% of cases. Less common sites are the tongue, the gingival and buccal mucosa. The lesion tends to enlarge over time and multiple lesions can be present. A lesion will be nodular in texture, the sarcoma is usually asymptomatic but a lower percentage of cases can be associated with blood loss, and the presence of ulcers and pain. The superinfection Candida spp. is very common. A biopsy and verification of the presence of the HIV virus is essential for diagnosis. Treatment includes: radiotherapy, cryotherapy, intra-lesional infusion with vinca-based alkaloids and the use of HAART (Highly Active Anti-Retroviral Therapy).