Kaposi's Sarcoma
Kaposi's sarcoma is a tumour (abnormal growth) of the cells that make up blood vessels. It is more common in men with HIV who have had sex with men and is thought to be a least partially due to a type of herpes virus that can be sexually transmitted (Human Herpes Virus 8). The lesions of Kaposi's sarcoma do not hurt or itch unless they become large. They can appear anywhere on the body or in the mouth, and commonly involve the legs and feet. Kaposi's sarcoma can also involve internal organs such as the lung and gut. They vary in colour from pink, dark red, purple to brown and are often mistaken for insect bites, birth marks or bruises. They may be flat or raised and vary greatly in size.
There are a variety of treatments available. Treatments range from a retinoid cream (a vitamin A derivative), freezing, surgical removal, a variety of injections, X-ray therapy and chemotherapy. Make-up can help hide Kaposi's sarcoma lesions.
The size and number of Kaposi's Sarcoma lesions reflects the degree of immune impairment by HIV infection. Improved anti-retroviral control of HIV can stabilise or improve the purple spots and bumps of Kaposi's Sarcoma.