What is it about?
Kaposi's sarcoma is a tumour of blood and lymphatic vessels caused by human herpesvirus 8, seen most often in people with advanced HIV infection or other forms of immunosuppression. It frequently involves the skin but can also affect the mucosa of the mouth and other organs. In this clinical image we show a patient in whom Kaposi's sarcoma presented with strikingly symmetrical lesions on the mucosal surfaces.
Featured Image
Photo by Cassi Josh on Unsplash
Why is it important?
Oral mucosal lesions may be the first visible sign of Kaposi's sarcoma and, indirectly, of an advanced immunodeficiency. Recognising their appearance, including unusual symmetrical patterns, can prompt earlier HIV testing, diagnosis and treatment.
Perspectives
Clinical images are a simple but effective way to teach. A careful look inside the patient's mouth can reveal a lot, and I hope this picture helps colleagues not to miss this diagnosis.
Professor Stefano Di Bella
Universita degli Studi di Trieste
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Kaposi’s sarcoma symmetric mucosal lesions, Infection, June 2012, Springer Science + Business Media,
DOI: 10.1007/s15010-012-0281-2.
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