[Kaposi's sarcoma treated with topical alitretinoin]

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Dermatology
• Virology

Background:

• Kaposi's sarcoma is a multifocal neoplastic condition caused by human herpes virus 8, presenting in four clinical variants.
• Current treatment for Kaposi's sarcoma lacks a definitive choice, with decisions based on lesion extent, location, and disease type.
• Alitretinoin gel 0.1% is approved for cutaneous lesions in AIDS-associated Kaposi's sarcoma, though local side effects can necessitate treatment cessation.

Observation:

• This case report details a patient with Kaposi's sarcoma receiving treatment with topical alitretinoin gel 0.1%.

Findings:

• The patient experienced a favorable evolution of Kaposi's sarcoma lesions despite significant local adverse reactions to the topical alitretinoin.
• The intense local reaction did not impede the overall positive therapeutic response.

Implications:

• Topical alitretinoin can be an effective treatment for Kaposi's sarcoma, even with notable local side effects.
• Further research may explore strategies to manage local reactions to optimize alitretinoin therapy for Kaposi's sarcoma.
• This case highlights the potential benefits of alitretinoin in managing cutaneous Kaposi's sarcoma in the context of HIV/AIDS.