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Updated: Jul 20, 2026
07:02
Identifying Dysregulated Genes Induced by Kaposi's Sarcoma-associated Herpesvirus (KSHV)
Published on: September 14, 2010
Primary palmoplantar Kaposi's sarcoma: an unusual presentation
Abdullateef A Al Zolibani1, Ahmad A Al Robaee
1Department of Dermatology, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraidah, Saudi Arabia. azolibani@yahoo.com
Skinmed
|September 8, 2006
Summary
A rare case of Kaposi
Area of Science:
- Dermatology and Oncology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Kaposi sarcoma (KS) is an AIDS-defining illness, but can occur in non-HIV individuals.
- Cutaneous KS presents as lesions on the skin, often affecting the lower extremities.
Observation:
- A 65-year-old diabetic man presented with painful, reddish-purple patches and plaques on palms and soles.
- Skin biopsy revealed epidermal acanthosis and spongiosis, with dermal vascular proliferation and inflammatory infiltrate.
- Immunohistochemistry was positive for CD34 and CD68; PCR confirmed human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8) positivity.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with cutaneous Kaposi sarcoma.
- The HHV-8 association was confirmed via PCR, indicating a viral etiology.
- The presentation on palms and soles is atypical for classic KS.
Implications:
- This case highlights that KS can occur in immunocompetent individuals, albeit rarely.
- It underscores the importance of considering KS in the differential diagnosis of unexplained skin lesions, even in non-HIV patients.
- Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing KS and preventing complications.
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