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Kaposi's sarcoma was one of the first recognized signs of HIV infection. Because of the early association between AIDS and Kaposi's sarcoma in the 1980s, some of the first AIDS patients in this country were treated at Memorial Sloan-Kettering. AIDS-associated Kaposi's sarcoma continues to be an area of clinical research at the Center.

Our investigators participate in national trials to improve the treatment of AIDS-associated Kaposi's sarcoma, including those administered by the AIDS Malignancy Consortium.

  • Our Team of Experts
    Our team of experts includes specialists in medical oncology, dermatology, and radiation oncology.
  • Overview
    Kaposi's sarcoma originates in the cells that normally develop into blood or lymph vessels, and is usually classified into one of four groups: classic, African (endemic), transplant-related, and AIDS-associated (epidemic).
  • Symptoms
    Lesions usually appear first in the skin. The dark color (red, purple, brown, or black) of the skin lesions is caused by abnormal growth of blood vessel tissue and leakage of blood cells into the tissues.
  • Risk Factors
    A virus known as human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8), also called Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV), is found in all types of Kaposi's sarcoma tumors. This virus must be present in order for Kaposi's sarcoma lesions to develop.
  • Diagnosis
    Kaposi's sarcoma is diagnosed by biopsy, in which a pathologist examines a small sample of tissue with a microscope.
  • Treatment
    Treatment of Kaposi's sarcoma depends on the extent of the disease, how quickly it is progressing, and whether the symptoms are affecting the patient's daily activities and quality of life. The choice of treatment may also be influenced by the severity of the underlying HIV infection and by the presence of any other complications.

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Last Updated: Mar. 17, 2008
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