Eruptive Kaposi sarcoma: an unusual presentation in an HIV-negative patient

Cutis. 2011 Jan;87(1):34-8.

Abstract

Kaposi sarcoma (KS) is an angioproliferative disease associated with human herpes virus 8 (HHV-8) infection. Four clinical variants have been described, all unified by common histopathologic features. We report a case of KS in an elderly Italian man with an unusual clinical presentation characterized by a relatively rapid onset of lesions and an unexplained low CD4 lymphocyte count. We review KS, including the 4 recognized variants, the central histopathologic findings, and various treatment options. In addition, we briefly discuss causes of CD4 lymphocytopenia, including a cursory overview of idiopathic CD4 lymphocytopenia (ICL).

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aminoquinolines / therapeutic use
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use
  • CD4 Lymphocyte Count
  • Cryotherapy
  • Humans
  • Imiquimod
  • Italy / ethnology
  • Lymphopenia
  • Male
  • Sarcoma, Kaposi / diagnosis*
  • Sarcoma, Kaposi / therapy
  • Skin Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Skin Neoplasms / therapy

Substances

  • Aminoquinolines
  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Imiquimod