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Updated: Jul 13, 2026

Identifying Dysregulated Genes Induced by Kaposi's Sarcoma-associated Herpesvirus (KSHV)
Published on: September 14, 2010
[Myeloma, Kaposi's sarcoma and HHV8 infection in hemodialyzed patient]
Mohamed Mongi Bacha1, Rym Goucha, Karim Zouaghi
1Service de Médecine Interne A, Hôpital Charles Nicolle, Tunis, Tunisie.
Background:
The association between Kaposi's sarcoma, Human Herpes Virus 8 infection and multiple myeloma is still controversial especially in hemodialysed patient.
Aim:
report a new case of this association.
Observation:
We report the case of a 83 year old man in whom the diagnosis of multiple myeloma of IgA/kappa had been made in December 2003 with end stage renal failure requiring hemodialysis. Initially, it had been treated with Melphalan, Cyclophosphamide, Prednisolone and Vincristine and secondary by Melphalan and Prednisone. Three months later, he had developed extensive porpour lesions in his lower limbs. Skin biopsy had been informed of Kaposi's sarcoma. Human Herpes Virus 8 test was positive.
Conclusion:
Our observation is another case supporting the hypothesis that Kaposi's sarcoma and multiple myeloma share a common aetiology such as Human Herpes Virus 8. The immunodepressed state related to aging, multiple myeloma, chemotherapy and hemodialysis was the probable factor responsible of rapidly progressive Kaposi's sarcoma in our patient. The association myeloma and Human Herpes Virus 8 infection is still controversial.
Insights
This case report details a patient with multiple myeloma and hemodialysis who developed Kaposi's sarcoma, suggesting a potential link between these conditions and Human Herpes Virus 8 infection.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Virology
- Nephrology
Background:
- The link between Kaposi's sarcoma (KS), Human Herpes Virus 8 (HHV-8), and multiple myeloma (MM) remains debated, particularly in patients undergoing hemodialysis.
- Investigating co-infections and their impact on immunocompromised individuals is crucial.
Observation:
- A case of an 83-year-old male with IgA/kappa multiple myeloma and end-stage renal failure requiring hemodialysis is presented.
- The patient developed extensive Kaposi's sarcoma lesions on his lower limbs three months after initiating MM treatment.
- Skin biopsy confirmed Kaposi's sarcoma, and HHV-8 testing was positive.
Findings:
- The co-occurrence of Kaposi's sarcoma and multiple myeloma in this patient supports the hypothesis of a shared etiology, potentially involving Human Herpes Virus 8.
- The patient's immunodepressed state, exacerbated by aging, multiple myeloma, chemotherapy, and hemodialysis, likely contributed to the rapid progression of Kaposi's sarcoma.
Implications:
- This case adds to the evidence suggesting a potential association between multiple myeloma, Human Herpes Virus 8, and Kaposi's sarcoma.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the complex interplay between these conditions, especially in the context of chronic illness and immunosuppression.
- Understanding these associations can inform diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for immunocompromised patients.
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