The prognostic significance of facial lymphoedema in HIV-seropositive subjects with Kaposi sarcoma

L Feller,Ej Raubenheimer,Nh Wood,Jn Masipa,J Lemmer

doi:10.1186/1742-6405-5-2

Abstract

BackgroundKaposi Sarcoma (KS) is a multifocal angioproliferative neoplasm characterized by inflammation, oedema, neoangiogenesis and spindle cell proliferation. The pathogenesis of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-associated KS (HIV-KS) is multifactorial. HHV-8 is an essential factor but not in itself sufficient to cause HIV-KS, the development of which is influenced by HIV, by increased production of cytokines and by growth factors. Whether HIV-KS is a true malignancy or a reactive hyperplastic inflammatory condition is debatable.Results and ConclusionOedema of the face, legs and hands is a prominent feature of HIV-KS and is probably caused by lymphoedema related to the HIV-KS lesions. The cases of two HIV-seropositive subjects with KS-associated facial lymphoedema are reported. Extensive oral HIV-KS in association with facial oedema in the absence of anti-retroviral treatment appears to be an indication of a poor prognosis.

Highlights

Kaposi sarcoma (KS) is an endothelial tumour of lymphatic endothelial origin that affects mucocutanous sites, but may involve internal organs [1]
It may be present before the appearance of clinically overt Kaposi Sarcoma (KS) lesions and the lymphoedematous site is predisposed to secondary bacterial infections [6]
(page number not for citation purposes) http://www.aidsrestherapy.com/content/5/1/2 nective tissue [15], and to release of growth factors, in particular vascular endothelial growth factor and basic fibroblast growth factor, that may bring about subcutaneous fibrosis and hyperkeratosis [15,16]

Summary

Results and Conclusion

Legs and hands is a prominent feature of HIV-KS and is probably caused by lymphoedema related to the HIV-KS lesions. The cases of two HIVseropositive subjects with KS-associated facial lymphoedema are reported. Extensive oral HIV-KS in association with facial oedema in the absence of anti-retroviral treatment appears to be an indication of a poor prognosis

Introduction

Discussion

Schwartz AA

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