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Identifying Dysregulated Genes Induced by Kaposi's Sarcoma-associated Herpesvirus KSHV
Published on: September 14, 2010
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Angiosarcoma-like Kaposi Sarcoma: A Distinctive Histomorphologic Variant Representing an Important Diagnostic Pitfall
Jose A Plaza1, Omar P Sangueza2, Alessio Giubellino3
1Department of Pathology and Dermatology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center (OSUWMC), Columbus, OH.
The American Journal of Surgical Pathology
|August 10, 2022
Summary
A rare Kaposi sarcoma (KS) variant mimicking angiosarcoma presents diagnostic challenges. Recognizing this human herpesvirus 8-associated neoplasm requires careful histomorphology and clinical correlation for accurate diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Dermatopathology
- Virology
Background:
- Kaposi sarcoma (KS) is a rare angioproliferative neoplasm linked to human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8).
- KS exhibits diverse clinical subtypes and histopathologic patterns, often posing diagnostic difficulties.
- Distinguishing KS variants from other vascular tumors is crucial for patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a newly identified variant of Kaposi sarcoma with features resembling well-differentiated angiosarcoma.
- To highlight the diagnostic challenges posed by this angiosarcoma-like KS variant.
- To emphasize the importance of considering this variant in the differential diagnosis of cutaneous angiosarcomas.
Main Methods:
- Histopathological analysis of fourteen cases of angiosarcoma-like KS.
- Immunohistochemical staining for vascular markers (CD31, CD34, ERG).
- Detection of human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8) in all cases.
Main Results:
- All cases presented as diffuse, infiltrative dermal lesions with anastomosing vascular channels.
- Vascular proliferation extended into subcutaneous fat and around skin appendages.
- Positive staining for vascular markers and HHV-8 confirmed KS, despite atypical morphology.
Conclusions:
- Angiosarcoma-like KS is a rare variant that can be mistaken for well-differentiated angiosarcoma.
- Accurate diagnosis requires careful evaluation of histomorphology and clinical history.
- Awareness of this variant is essential for appropriate patient diagnosis and management.
