Kaposi Sarcoma
Description Diagnostic criteria General and supportive measures Medicine treatment Referral ICD-10 code: C46.9 DESCRIPTION Kaposi sarcoma is a vascular tumour that can present anywhere on the skin and oral mucosa. Lymph nodes and internal organs, primarily lungs and gastrointestinal tract, may also be involved. It is associated with human herpes virus 8 and occurs most commonly
General and supportive measures
ICD-10 code: C46.9
DESCRIPTION
Kaposi sarcoma is a vascular tumour that can present anywhere on the skin and oral mucosa. Lymph nodes and internal organs, primarily lungs and gastrointestinal tract, may also be involved.
It is associated with human herpes virus 8 and occurs most commonly in immunocompromised HIV-infected patients. It can be asymptomatic and indolent or aggressive, characterised by explosive growth and death.
DIAGNOSTIC CRITERIA
- Presents with skin lesions on the limbs, particularly the lower leg and foot, but may occur anywhere on the body.
- Lesions (skin and mucosal) may be bruise-like patches, purple or purple-red plaques, subcutaneous papules or nodules.
- Lymphoedema, ulceration and secondary bacterial infection may occur.
GENERAL AND SUPPORTIVE MEASURES
- Counselling to assist patient in dealing with the condition.
MEDICINE TREATMENT
- Manage in consultation with an oncologist.
- Treat secondary infection with an appropriate antibiotic, if indicated.
- Treatment of HIV. See Chapter 9: Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infections.
- Supportive treatment, e.g. pain. See Pain Control, and Management of pain.
REFERRAL
- All suspected cases for initial diagnosis.
- Kaposi sarcoma cases unresponsive to ART.
- Extensive progressive disease.
Standard Treatment Guidelines And Essential Medicines List For South Africa, Hospital Level, Paediatrics, 2023 Edition
Chapter 5: Dermatology, 5.5. Vesicles And Pustules, 5.5.2 Skin And Mucosal Disorders In HIV, 5.5.2.2 Kaposi Sarcoma