Kaposi Sarcoma: An in-depth look
Kaposi's sarcoma is a rare cancerous tumor that occurs in the cells lining lymphatic or blood vessels. The disease was first diagnosed in 1872 by Moritz Kaposi. It causes tissue growth under the skin or on the inside of the nose, mouth and throat. These lesions are typically purple, brown or red. They can cause severe symptoms when they appear in specific areas.
What is Kaposi Sarcoma?
Kaposi sarcomas are tumors that grow on skin, mucous tissues, and internal organs. The American Cancer Society reports that the number of KS has decreased significantly since the introduction in mid-1990s of highly-active antiretroviral treatment (HAART). KS affects six out of every one million Americans each year. Men are more likely to develop it than women, and the condition is usually associated with immunosuppression such as that which can be caused by AIDS or organ transplantation.
Kaposi Sarcoma: Common causes
Human herpesvirus 8, also called Kaposi's sarcoma associated herpesvirus, is the primary cause of Kaposi sarcoma. KS is caused by a number of factors.
- HIV infection, which weakens your immune system. This makes it more likely that HHV-8 will cause cancer.
- Other reasons for a weakened immune response, like taking medication to avoid rejection of an organ transplant.
- A person of specific ethnic origins, such as Mediterranean or Eastern European Jewish descent.
Kaposi Sarcoma Treatments
There are several treatment options for Kaposi's Sarcoma. These include
- Treatment: The first line of treatment is usually chemotherapy. It is not always effective, but chemotherapy can control symptoms and help slow down the progression of KS.
- Radiotherapy: High-energy radiation is used to destroy cancerous cells. Localized tumors can be treated with this method.
- Immunotherapy Helps boost the immune system of the body to combat cancer. In some KS cases, it has shown positive results.
- Antiretroviral Therapy: In patients with AIDS associated KS, the antiretroviral treatment can control HIV and may help to control KS.
Expert opinions on Kaposi Sarcoma
The National Cancer Institute reports that research is being conducted to find new treatment options for Kaposi's Sarcoma. These include targeted therapies as well as biological treatments. Experts believe that a better understanding of the link between HHV-8, this type of cancer and HHV-8 may help to develop new methods to treat and prevent it. Many experts also stress the importance of routine checkups, especially for those at high risk of developing KS. This includes people with a suppressed immunity system and HIV infections.
Prevention and Natural Remedies
There are currently no natural treatments for Kaposi's Sarcoma. However, a healthy life style can help to maintain overall health as well as the ability of your body to resist illness. Included in this are:
- A balanced diet that is rich in vegetables, fruits, grains and proteins.
- Getting regular exercise.
- It is important to avoid risky behavior that could lead to HIV, like unprotected sexual activity and the sharing of needles.
- Check-ups should be done regularly, particularly for those at risk.
Kaposi's Sarcoma is an uncommon form of cancer that is caused primarily by human herpesviruses 8. People with weakened immunity, especially those who have HIV/AIDS or HIV, are more susceptible to this cancer. It is important to prevent the disease, even though there are many treatments, such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy and immunotherapy. Prevention of this disease can be achieved through regular health check-ups, an active lifestyle and HIV prevention strategies. Research into alternative treatment methods offers hope that future advances in the management of Kaposi's Sarcoma will be made.
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