clinical features
Last reviewed 01/2018
The lesion or lesions of Kaposi's sarcoma may at first appear like bruises, being coloured purple and blue. However, these become slightly raised and firmer, with the colour darkening so that the lesions become purple and black. They are not usually painful or itchy though they may develop at multiple sites over the body and cause cosmetic distress.
In about 40% of cases there is gastrointestinal involvement which is usually asymptomatic, though dysphagia or obstructive symptoms may occur.
Pulmonary manifestations include pleural, parenchymal and airway lesions, and recurrent pleural effusions may occur.
There may also be liver and lymph node involvement.