Kaposi Sarcoma-Associated Herpesvirus and Kidney Disease

Kaposi sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV), also known as human herpesvirus 8, is a carcinogenic gamma herpesvirus strongly associated with various human malignancies, including Kaposi sarcoma. Compromised immune function is a critical risk factor for the development of Kaposi sarcoma, particularly in individuals with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection or those receiving immunosuppressive therapy. Antiviral therapy and radiotherapy have little role in KS treatment, which consists of chemotherapy and immunobiologicals (besides changing, reducing, or discontinuing immunosuppressants). Despite these approaches, the prognosis remains poor. Kidney transplant recipients, patients with glomerulonephritis undergo long-term immunosuppressive therapy, and individuals with end-stage kidney disease who have impaired immune function are mainly at high risk for KSHV infection. However, nephrologists often pay insufficient attention to and monitor KSHV in kidney disease patients. This review explores the relationship between KSHV and kidney disease, highlighting the risk of KSHV infection in different patient populations, strategies for postinfection management, and associated prognoses.