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Kaposi's sarcoma is a type of cancer that causes abnormal patches of tissue to grow under the skin, in the lining of the mouth, nose, throat, or other organs. The lesions are typically purplish, red, or brown.
read more about kaposis sarcoma ...The disease is caused by infection with the human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8), also known as Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus. The cancer develops in people with significantly weakened immune systems, particularly those with advanced HIV/AIDS.
Lesions appear as flat or raised patches that are purple, red, or brown. Skin spots favor the legs, feet, and face and can merge into plaques or nodules. Involvement of the mouth, airway, or gastrointestinal tract causes bleeding, pain, or swallowing trouble. Lung lesions lead to cough and breathlessness. Lesion color reflects blood vessel growth and hemosiderin deposition.
This cancer commonly affects the eye structures. Lesions can appear on the conjunctiva (the clear membrane over the eye) and the eyelids. These growths are typically red or purple and can cause vision problems, discomfort, or swelling if they grow large.
Diagnosis involves a physical exam and a biopsy of the suspicious lesion to confirm the presence of cancer cells and often HHV-8. Blood tests are also performed to determine the underlying immune status.
Treatment protocols depend heavily on the severity and the person's immune status. For people with HIV, simply starting antiretroviral therapy (ART) may shrink the lesions. Localized treatment involves surgery or radiation, while systemic disease requires chemotherapy.
No, the cancer itself is not contagious, but the underlying virus (HHV-8) is spread primarily through saliva or sexual contact.
No, it occurs in other groups with weak immune systems, such as organ transplant recipients, but it is most commonly associated with HIV/AIDS.
Yes, the lesions are cancerous tumors, though they can often be managed effectively.
If you notice painless purple, red, or brown spots on your skin or inside your mouth, see a doctor immediately. If Kaposi's Sarcoma affects the eyelids or the conjunctiva (the white part of the eye), it can cause significant swelling and irritation that requires specialized oncological care.
National Cancer Institute. Kaposi Sarcoma Treatment (cancer.gov). 2025.
American Cancer Society. What is Kaposi Sarcoma? (cancer.org). 2025.
Mayo Clinic. Kaposi's Sarcoma Symptoms (mayoclinic.org). 2024.
StatPearls. Kaposi Sarcoma (ncbi.nlm.nih.gov). 2024.