skin disorders
Kaposi Sarcoma
Introduction
Kaposi sarcoma is a Overview of Skin Cancer that causes multiple flat pink, red, or purple patches or bumps on the skin. It is caused by human herpesvirus type 8 infection. One or a few spots may appear on the toes or a leg, or spots may appear anywhere on the body or in the mouth or genital areas, then spread to other areas, including internal organs. Although this cancer can often be identified by sight, doctors usually also do a biopsy. Spots may be removed or treated with radiation therapy, but if the cancer is aggressive, treatment includes chemotherapy or interferon alfa. There are many types of Overview of Herpesvirus Infections . One of them, type 8, can cause Kaposi sarcoma, particularly in people with a weakened immune system. There are 5 types of Kaposi sarcoma. The types occur in several distinct groups of people and act differently in each group. It occurs in the following: Classic Kaposi sarcoma: This type affects older men, usually of Mediterranean, Eastern European, or Ashkenazi Jewish heritage. Endemic Kaposi sarcoma: Endemic means this cancer occurs regularly in a certain place. It affects children and young adults from certain parts of Africa. Iatrogenic Kaposi sarcoma: This type affects people whose immune system is weakened by medications that suppress the immune system (immunosuppressants) given after organ transplantation. AIDS-associated Kaposi sarcoma (epidemic Kaposi sarcoma): This type affects people with Symptoms . Non-epidemic: This type has been increasingly recognized and occurs in men who are HIV-negative and who have sex with men. 