Kaposi Sarcoma in an Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)-Seronegative Mediterranean Female: Report of a Rare Case

Am J Case Rep. 2017 Jul 26:18:830-833. doi: 10.12659/ajcr.903537.

Abstract

BACKGROUND Kaposi sarcoma is a malignancy commonly linked to HIV infection or immunosuppression. An association with human herpes virus 8 (HHV-8) infection has also been reported. We present a case of classic Kaposi sarcoma in a female Mediterranean patient. CASE REPORT A 57-year-old white female of Greek ethnicity, with no history of HIV infection or immunosuppression, presented to the Surgical Out-patient Department of our Center, with complaints of extensive discolored skin lesion on both legs, initially considered as chronic vein insufficiency. Histopathological findings from skin biopsies revealed Kaposi sarcoma. CONCLUSIONS Non-HIV-related Kaposi sarcoma is an HHV-8-related, angioproliferating skin cancer that can cause pain, disfigurement, and limb dysfunction. High suspicion of this condition can lead to early treatment and delay progression.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Greece
  • Humans
  • Immunocompetence*
  • Lower Extremity
  • Middle Aged
  • Sarcoma, Kaposi / pathology*
  • Skin Neoplasms / pathology*