Genetically determined coincidence of Kaposi sarcoma and psoriasis in an HIV-negative patient after prednisolone treatment. Spontaneous regression 8 months after discontinuing therapy

Int J Dermatol. 1991 Feb;30(2):114-20. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-4362.1991.tb04222.x.

Abstract

We report the case of drug-induced, acrolocalized Kaposi sarcoma (KS), arising multicentrically in both palms and soles of a male patient who has had widespread psoriasis since 12 years of age. This 59-year-old man, of Mediterranean origin, was HIV antibody-negative and had received oral prednisolone treatment over 5 months for chronic obstructive lung disease (initial dose: 75 mg/d). Eight months after discontinuing oral treatment the KS nodules regressed spontaneously and finally disappeared completely without additional treatment. Light and electron microscopic investigations confirmed the diagnosis of KS, whereas laboratory tests excluded HIV infection and suggested mild immune dysfunction. The existence of HLA loci predisposing to KS and to psoriasis (A1, DR5, DR7, DR11) was characteristic for the simultaneous occurrence of these two diseases. This case report demonstrates the complex interrelationships between genetic predisposition, drugs leading to immune suppression, and the evolution of an unusual neoplasm.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Disease Susceptibility
  • HIV Seropositivity*
  • HLA Antigens / analysis
  • Humans
  • Lung Diseases, Obstructive / complications
  • Lung Diseases, Obstructive / drug therapy
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Prednisolone / adverse effects*
  • Prednisolone / therapeutic use
  • Psoriasis / complications*
  • Psoriasis / drug therapy
  • Psoriasis / immunology
  • Sarcoma, Kaposi / chemically induced
  • Sarcoma, Kaposi / immunology
  • Sarcoma, Kaposi / pathology*
  • Skin / pathology
  • Skin Neoplasms / chemically induced
  • Skin Neoplasms / immunology
  • Skin Neoplasms / pathology*

Substances

  • HLA Antigens
  • Prednisolone