Radiation-refractory and progressive Kaposi's sarcoma remains a challenge for the oncologist. Systemic chemotherapy has improved, but results are poor. Gemcitabine is largely employed in oncology for its high therapeutic rates. We report four cases of patients with radiation-refractory and progressive classic Kaposi's sarcoma, two of whom were pre-treated with chemotherapy and then underwent treatment with gemcitabine. All patients had an objective response with long progression-free survival. Gemcitabine seems to be very effective and safe in the treatment of classic Kaposi's sarcoma.
Keywords: Kaposi's sarcoma; case series; chemotherapy; gemcitabine.