Isolated primary pulmonary Kaposi's sarcoma in a renal transplant recipient: a case report

Kaposi's sarcoma (Ks) a relatively common malignancy after kidney transplantation, generally presents as characteristic dermatomucosal lesions. Visceral organ involvement is common in conjunction with skin lesions; however, isolated visceral KS is an uncommon disease among kidney recipients. Isolated primary pulmonary KS is a rare finding in this population. Herein we have reported on a 38-year-old renal recipient male with respiratory symptoms and a normal dermatomucosal examination without lymphadenopathy. Chest imaging revealed multiple, bilateral, ill-defined nodular opacities without lymphadenopathy or pleural effusion. Pulmonary KS was documented by histopathological evaluation of samples obtained from an open lung biopsy. The patient died because of severe pneumonia and intra-alveolar hemorrhage. Postmortem evaluation indicated no other organ involvement. This case exemplifies the importance of being aware that pulmonary KS should not be excluded in the absence of dermatomucosal lesions and lymphadenopathy.