Kaposi's Sarcoma

Diagnosis

To diagnose Kaposi's sarcoma, Mayo Clinic physicians ask for a medical history and perform a thorough physical examination. Previous illnesses and sexual history may help make the diagnosis. Biopsies and imaging studies are also necessary.

Biopsy

Because skin lesions caused by Kaposi's sarcoma can look similar to several other skin conditions, it is important that tissue from the tumor be biopsied (removed for analysis). A pathologist looks at the cells under a microscope to determine whether the tissue is cancerous.

Imaging Studies

Physicians use chest X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and other imaging techniques to detect tissue invaded by Kaposi's sarcoma.

Cause of Kaposi's Sarcoma

A majority of Kaposi's sarcoma lesions contain a virus called human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8). Scientists believe that Kaposi's sarcoma may be related to HHV-8. Up to 10 percent of those living in the United States carry this virus. However, most people don't develop Kaposi's sarcoma unless their immune system has been compromised. People who have HIV are much more likely to develop Kaposi's sarcoma. Organ transplant recipients may also be susceptible to the disease because they take immunosuppressive drugs to prevent organ rejection.