A series of patients with Kaposi sarcoma (Mediterranean/classical type): Case presentations and short update on pathogenesis and treatment

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Kaposi’s sarcoma was first described in 1872 by Moritz Kaposi. To date, it is considered a malignant disease is originating from the endothelial cells of the lymphatic vessels believed to be infected with HHV-8. The current classification defines four major epidemiological forms of Kaposi’s sarcoma: classical, endemic, AIDS-associated, and iatrogenic. CASE REPORT: A 90-year-old male is presented with multiple plaques-and tumour-shaped brown-violet formations located on an erythematous-livid base in the area of both feet and both shanks. Two samples were taken from the lesions on the skin of the shanks, with histopathological examination and the subsequent immunohistochemistry showing Kaposi’s sarcoma. CONCLUSIONS: Kaposi sarcoma is a disease that causes difficulties both in diagnostic and therapeutic respect. The only sure way to determine the correct diagnosis is immunohistochemical staining with the anti-HHV8 antibody. Despite the wide range of systematic and local treatment options, there is still no unified algorithm and a unified strategy for the treatment of Kaposi’s sarcoma.