The information given below does not contain health advice. If you are considering this procedure, you should consult a doctor. Click here to see the health facilities and doctors providing this service on the HealthTürkiye portal.

 

 

What is Kaposi Sarcoma?

Kaposi Sarcoma (KS) is a type of cancer that originates in endothelial cells and usually occurs in the skin, mucous membranes and lymph nodes. It develops in the cells that line blood vessels and usually appears as dark purplish, red or bluish lesions.

The characteristics and prognosis of Kaposi Sarcoma are directly related to the immune status of the individual in whom the disease occurs. This type of cancer is particularly common in people who are immunocompromised, for example people with HIV/AIDS or people who are taking immunosuppressive drugs after organ transplantation. There are different types of Kaposi Sarcoma and each type can be associated with a specific geographical area or immune status.

 

Types of Kaposi Sarcoma

There are four main types of Kaposi Sarcoma and each has different characteristics:

1. Classical Kaposi Sarcoma (Classical or Mediterranean KS): This type usually occurs in older men of Mediterranean origin. It is especially common in individuals of Italian, Greek and Eastern European origin. Classic Kaposi Sarcoma progresses slowly and usually presents as dark red or purplish spots on the skin, especially on the legs. These lesions are usually painless and do not tend to spread to internal organs. Treatment is usually by removal of the lesions or local radiotherapy.
2. Endemic Kaposi Sarcoma (African KS): This type is more common in tropical parts of Africa, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. Endemic Kaposi Sarcoma can occur in both children and adults and can be more aggressive than other types of KS. Lesions can be more widespread and affect lymph nodes and internal organs. It is more common in areas where HIV infection is common, suggesting a role for the immune system.
3. Kaposi Sarcoma Associated with Immunosuppression (KS after Organ Transplantation): This type of KS, which develops in people who use immunosuppressive drugs after organ transplantation, is directly related to immunosuppressive therapy. When the immune system is suppressed, the virus that causes Kaposi Sarcoma (KSHV) can be activated and the disease can occur. Lowering the level of immunosuppression or changing medications can help the disease to regress. This type can have more serious consequences due to the tendency of the disease to spread to internal organs.
4. Epidemic Kaposi Sarcoma (AIDS Associated KS): This is the most common type of Kaposi Sarcoma in HIV/AIDS patients. Epidemic KS occurs when the immune system is severely weakened in the advanced stages of AIDS. This type can affect multiple skin lesions, mucous membranes and internal organs. Antiretroviral therapy (ART), used to treat HIV, can help control this form of KS and can strengthen the immune system, leading to regression of the lesions.

 

Causes and Risk Factors of Kaposi Sarcoma

The main cause of Kaposi Sarcoma is infection with human herpes virus-8 (HHV-8), also known as Kaposi Sarcoma Herpesvirus (KSHV). HHV-8, like other herpes viruses, is a lifelong virus and can be activated when the immune system is suppressed. However, not everyone infected with HHV-8 develops Kaposi Sarcoma. A weakened immune system is usually required for KS to occur.

Major Risk Factors for Kaposi Sarcoma:

1. HIV/AIDS: One of the most common groups in which Kaposi Sarcoma is seen is HIV-positive individuals. The HIV virus suppresses the immune system and can lead to activation of HHV-8. Antiretroviral therapy may reduce the risk of developing KS in HIV-positive individuals.
2. Organ Transplantation: Immunosuppressive drugs used after organ transplantation can suppress the immune system and lead to the development of KS. In such patients, the weakened immune system allows KSHV to be activated.
3. Geographic Region: People living in areas where HHV-8 infection is prevalent, such as sub-Saharan Africa, are at higher risk of KS. Both endemic and AIDS-related KS are more common in these regions.
4. Age: Classical Kaposi Sarcoma is more common in older people, especially men of Mediterranean descent.
5. Sex: KS is generally more common in men than in women. This may point to the role of hormonal factors in the development of KS.

 

Symptoms of Kaposi Sarcoma

Kaposi Sarcoma presents as dark red, purple or bluish lesions on the skin. These lesions are usually painless, but can sometimes be associated with itching, burning or discomfort. Lesions can appear on many parts of the body, especially on the legs, face, genitals and inside the mouth.

In addition to lesions, it is important to note that KS can also affect internal organs. When it affects internal organs, the symptoms depend on the affected organ. For example, if KS is present in the lungs, symptoms may include shortness of breath, coughing and chest pain. If the digestive system is affected, symptoms can include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and blood in stools.

Lymph nodes can also be affected by KS, resulting in swelling, pain and lymphedema (swelling caused by the accumulation of lymph fluid).

 

How is Kaposi Sarcoma Diagnosed?

Kaposi Sarcoma is usually diagnosed with a biopsy taken from skin lesions. The biopsy is performed by taking a small sample of the lesion and examining it under a microscope. The pathologist examines this sample and detects the cellular changes characteristic of KS.

In addition, doctors may order various imaging tests to assess the spread of the disease. These include tests such as computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and endoscopy. These tests help to detect possible spread to internal organs.

 

Kaposi Sarcoma Treatment

Treatment of Kaposi Sarcoma varies depending on the type of disease, its spread, the patient's general health and the strength of the immune system. Treatment options include:

1. Antiretroviral Therapy (ART): In HIV/AIDS patients, antiretroviral therapy (ART) is an essential treatment to strengthen the immune system and cause KS lesions to shrink. ART suppresses HIV replication and helps rebuild the body's immune system.
2. Local Treatments: Some local treatments can be applied for Kaposi Sarcoma. These treatments are as follows:

• Surgery: Surgical removal of small and limited lesions is possible.
• Radiotherapy: Radiotherapy can be particularly effective for painful or aesthetically disturbing lesions.
• Cryotherapy: This method, which aims to destroy lesions by freezing them, is used to treat superficial KS.

3. Chemotherapy: In cases of more widespread KS, systemic chemotherapy may be used. This treatment spreads throughout the body through the bloodstream and targets KS cells. Drugs such as doxolorubicin, bleomycin and vincristine are commonly used to treat Kaposi Sarcoma.
4. Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy helps fight KS cells by targeting the immune system. Immunomodulatory drugs such as interferon-alpha can stop the growth of KS cells by activating the immune system.
5. Reducing the Dose of Immunosuppressive Drugs: In patients who develop KS after organ transplantation, reducing or changing the dose of immunosuppressive drugs may help to restore the immune system and regress KS.

 

Kaposi Sarcoma is a serious disease that can affect quality of life, especially for HIV positive individuals. However, thanks to modern treatment methods and advances in HIV treatment, many patients can live for many years and keep the disease under control. With regular follow-up and appropriate treatment, KS lesions can shrink or disappear completely.

It is important to remember that KS can be a chronic disease, so regular medical check-ups and maintaining a strong immune system are important. For HIV-positive individuals, continuous antiretroviral therapy plays a critical role in controlling the disease.

In conclusion, Kaposi Sarcoma is a type of cancer that is particularly common in individuals with weakened immune systems. Treatment may vary depending on the type and spread of the disease, but with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, it is possible to control the disease. Thanks to modern medicine, KS has become a better managed disease.

 

Why choose HealthTürkiye?

Türkiye has become a sought-after destination for medical tourism, thanks to its well-established healthcare system and highly trained medical professionals. HealthTürkiye, an official representative of the Türkiye healthcare system, has been authorized by the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Türkiye to assist international travelers seeking medical care in Türkiye. USHAŞ is a government-affiliated organization that makes it easier for international travelers to get the right direction and guidance for medical services. HealthTürkiye offers specialized services to guide patients from all over the world in accessing top-quality medical services in Türkiye.

HealthTürkiye provides a wide range of medical facilities and advanced technology to ensure that patients receive the best possible care. The organization collaborates with the foremost hospitals in the field to develop personalized treatment plans for each patient, considering their specific needs and preferences. The medical professionals at these hospitals are highly trained and experienced, ensuring that patients receive safe, effective, and high-quality care.

Building on the achievement of HealthTürkiye, Türkiye strives to position itself as the greatest global center for healthcare services. By prioritizing inclusive and readily available healthcare services, as well as embracing cutting-edge technology and specialized knowledge, Türkiye has emerged as an appealing destination for individuals seeking medical tourism opportunities.

If you would like to benefit from Türkiye's healthcare services, HealthTürkiye will meet you the best medical care.