Kaposi sarcoma (KS) is a type of cancer that primarily affects the skin but can also involve other organs. The symptoms of Kaposi sarcoma mainly manifest as distinctive skin lesions, but they can vary depending on the extent and location of the disease.
The most common and noticeable symptom is the appearance of **skin lesions**. These lesions typically start as small, flat, or slightly raised spots that can be pink, red, purple, or brown in color. They often appear on the legs, feet, face, or genital area but can develop anywhere on the body. The color variation is due to the abnormal growth of blood vessels and the presence of blood within the lesions. Over time, these lesions may grow larger, become nodular or plaque-like, and sometimes merge together to form larger patches. The lesions can be tender or painful to the touch, although some people may not experience discomfort initially.
Besides the skin, Kaposi sarcoma can affect **mucous membranes**, such as those inside the mouth, nose, or throat. Lesions in these areas may cause swelling, bleeding, or difficulty swallowing or breathing if they grow large enough.
When Kaposi sarcoma spreads beyond the skin, it can involve internal organs like the **lungs, lymph nodes, and gastrointestinal tract**. Symptoms related to internal involvement depend on the organ affected:
– **Lung involvement** may cause cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, or coughing up blood. Imaging studies often reveal nodular or patchy lung infiltrates, but these symptoms can be subtle or mistaken for infections.
– **Gastrointestinal involvement** might lead to abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or bleeding, sometimes causing anemia.
– **Lymph node involvement** can cause swelling of lymph nodes, which may be painless or tender.
In some cases, Kaposi sarcoma lesions can ulcerate or become infected, leading to additional symptoms like drainage, foul odor, or increased pain.
People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or organ transplant recipients, are more likely to develop Kaposi sarcoma and may experience more aggressive symptoms. In these individuals, the lesions can progress rapidly and involve multiple sites simultaneously.
Early signs to watch for include the initial appearance of unusual colored spots or bumps on the skin that do not heal or go away, especially if accompanied by swelling or discomfort. Because Kaposi sarcoma can mimic other skin conditions, any persistent or unusual skin changes should prompt medical evaluation.
In summary, the symptoms of Kaposi sarcoma range from **colored skin lesions that may be tender or painless**, to **mucosal lesions causing discomfort**, and **internal organ symptoms** like respiratory or gastrointestinal issues when the disease spreads. The presentation can be quite variable, making awareness of these symptoms important, especially in individuals at higher risk.
