What Is Kaposi Sarcoma?
Kaposi sarcoma is a type of cancer. It appears most often as tumors on the skin or inside of the mouth or throat. They can also develop in the digestive tract, lungs, or lymph nodes. Here is what you should know about Kaposi sarcoma.
Four Types of Kaposi Sarcoma
There are four different types of Kaposi sarcoma (KS) that a person may be diagnosed with.
Epidemic Kaposi Sarcoma
This type of Kaposi sarcoma is one of the most common. It is considered to be AIDS-associated due to the fact that it develops in individuals who have HIV.
Classic Kaposi Sarcoma
This type of KS is also called Mediterranean Kaposi sarcoma due to the fact that it tends to affect older individuals who are Middle Eastern, Eastern European, or Mediterranean. It is more common among males and generally manifests in the form of a single lesion or multiple lesions on the soles of the feet, ankles, or legs.
Endemic Kaposi Sarcoma
This type of KS is often referred to as African KS due to the fact that it generally affects those who live in the equatorial region of Africa. Individuals in this area have a higher risk of developing this form of cancer due to the fact that Kaposi sarcoma-associated herpesvirus infections are common in this area.
Iatrogenic Kaposi Sarcoma
Individuals who have compromised immune systems due to being recipients of organ transplants are more likely to develop this type of Kaposi sarcoma.
Kaposi Sarcoma Symptoms
Despite the type of Kaposi sarcoma a person suffers from, there are several symptoms that they may experience. These include the formation of lesions on their:
- Spleen
- Liver
- Skin
- Lymph nodes
- The lining of the chest
- The lining of the mouth
- Stomach
- Lymph nodes
- Lungs
- Intestines
Class KS lesions may be red or purple and grow slowly on the feet and legs. When lesions appear on the stomach, intestines, and lymph nodes, they can interfere with the flow of blood and lead to pain and swelling. It is best to seek help as soon as possible if you notice any lesions.
Schedule a Skin Examination in the Keys
If you have a suspicious lesion on your skin that you would like to have examined, contact Keys Dermatology to schedule a consultation today by calling 305-664-8828. Their team has extensive experience dealing with Kaposi sarcoma and various other skin conditions for patients in their Islamorada and Key West dermatology offices.
