How does KSHV cause cancer?
In KS, the cells that line blood and lymphatic vessels (called endothelial cells) are infected with KSHV. The virus brings genes into the cells that can cause the cells to divide too much and to live longer than they should.
What type of cancer is Kaposi sarcoma?
Kaposi’s sarcoma is a type of cancer that forms in the lining of blood and lymph vessels. The tumors (lesions) of Kaposi’s sarcoma typically appear as painless purplish spots on the legs, feet or face. Lesions can also appear in the genital area, mouth or lymph nodes.
Where does Kaposi sarcoma first appear?
Kaposi sarcoma (KS) usually appears first as spots (called lesions) on the skin. The lesions can be purple, red, or brown. KS lesions can be flat and not raised above the surrounding skin (called patches), flat but slightly raised (called plaques), or bumps (called nodules).
Who is at risk for Kaposi’s sarcoma?
Ethnicity. People of Jewish or Mediterranean descent, as well as equatorial Africans, have a higher risk of developing Kaposi sarcoma. Gender. Men have a higher risk of developing Kaposi sarcoma than women.
Is Kaposi’s sarcoma contagious?
In some areas of Equatorial Africa, a high percentage of the population may be infected with KSHV and therefore have a greater risk of developing Kaposi sarcoma. Once again, medical experts think that the virus is being spread mostly through saliva transmission from mother to child.
What else looks like Kaposi sarcoma?
Other conditions that look similar to Kaposi sarcoma skin cancer are: Hematoma, which a large clot of blood that accumulates outside of a blood vessel in tissue. Dermatofibroma, which is a harmless skin growth. Purpura, which are spots caused by bleeding from the small blood vessels under the skin.
Does Kaposi sarcoma have pus?
You have signs of infection, such as: Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness. Red streaks leading from the area. Pus draining from the area.