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Updated: Jul 19, 2026
07:02
Identifying Dysregulated Genes Induced by Kaposi's Sarcoma-associated Herpesvirus (KSHV)
Published on: September 14, 2010
HIV-associated Kaposi's sarcoma
1Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa. sjessop@uctgsh1.uct.ac.za
Dermatologic Clinics
|October 3, 2006
Summary
Kaposi's sarcoma (KS), a vascular tumor linked to human herpes virus 8 (KSHV), is declining in developed nations due to antiretroviral therapy. However, access to effective treatments like pegylated liposomal doxorubicin remains a challenge in developing countries where KS is most prevalent.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Virology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) is a multifocal vascular tumor predominantly affecting immunosuppressed individuals, particularly those with HIV.
- Human herpes virus 8 (KSHV) is identified as the causative agent of KS.
- Significant geographic variations exist in KS and KSHV seropositivity prevalence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the epidemiology of Kaposi's sarcoma.
- To highlight the impact of antiretroviral therapy on KS incidence.
- To address treatment challenges in resource-limited settings.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and epidemiological data analysis.
- Review of treatment efficacy and accessibility.
- Analysis of geographic prevalence patterns.
Main Results:
- KS incidence has decreased significantly in developed countries due to effective antiretroviral therapy.
- KSHV is the established cause of KS.
- High KS prevalence persists in developing countries.
Conclusions:
- Antiretroviral therapy has dramatically reduced KS incidence in HIV-positive individuals in high-income countries.
- Pegylated liposomal doxorubicin is an effective treatment for KS.
- The high cost of effective treatments like pegylated liposomal doxorubicin limits their use in developing nations, where KS burden is greatest.
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