Disseminated Kaposi's sarcoma-a missed diagnosis

Kaposi's sarcoma is significantly prevalent among men infected with the human immunodeficiency virus, accounting for >90% of all cases. The early presentation of KS typically involves mucocutaneous lesions and lymphadenopathy, and more advanced disease can affect the lungs and other organs.

Our aim was to remind emergency physicians to remain suspicious of clinical presentations despite previous diagnoses or patient statements, particularly in patients with risk factors.

We present a case of a young man having skin lesions and respiratory problems remaining undiagnosed, despite, and possibly due to, multiple recent physician contacts.

Respiratory illnesses are common presentations in the emergency department and are typically benign and attributed to viral causes. However, the emergency physician must always be on the look out for more dangerous causes of respiratory complaints, especially in patients with risk factors and in those found to be refractory to recent treatment for more common illnesses.