Kaposis Sarcoma
Signs and symptoms
Source: NHS
In this topic (6)
The most common initial symptom is the appearance of small, painless, flat and discoloured patches on the skin or inside the mouth. They're usually red or purple and look similar to bruises.
Over time, the patches may grow into lumps known as nodules and may merge into each other.
Internal organs can also be affected, including thelymph nodes, lungs and the digestive system, whichcan cause symptoms such as:
- uncomfortable swelling in the arms or legs (lymphoedema)
- breathlessness, coughing up bloodandchest pain
- nausea, vomiting, stomach painand diarrhoea
The rate at which symptoms progress depends on the type of Kaposi's sarcoma you have.Most types get worse quickly in a matter of weeks or months without treatment, but some progress very slowly over many years.
Articles for Kaposis Sarcoma
Introduction
Kaposi's sarcoma is a rare type of cancer that can affect the skin and internal organs.
Outlook
With proper treatment, Kaposi's sarcoma can usually be controlled for many years. Deaths from the condition are uncommon in the UK.The discoloured patches of skin will often shrink and fade with treat
Signs and symptoms
The most common initial symptom is the appearance of small, painless, flat and discoloured patches on the skin or inside the mouth. They're usually red or purple and look similar to bruises.Over time,
Types of Kaposi's sarcoma and their treatment
There are four main types of Kaposi's sarcoma. These types affect different groups of people and are treated in different ways.HIV-related Kaposi's sarcomaAlthough it's not as common as it used to be,
What causes Kaposi's sarcoma?
Kaposi's sarcoma is caused by a virus called the human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8), also known as the Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV). This virus is thought to bespread during sex, through sa
When to seek medical advice
You should see your GP if you have any worrying symptoms you think could be caused by Kaposi's sarcoma.If you have HIV, you can also contact your local HIV clinicif you have any concerns.Your doctor w
