Chemotherapy of AIDS--related Kaposi's sarcoma

Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) is the most common tumor associated with AIDS. A growing number of patients with this tumor are presenting at later stages of HIV with more rapidly progressive, extensive, or symptomatic KS or with tumors involving visceral organs. Chemotherapy treatment is effective in inducing tumor regression, reducing edema, and ameliorating symptoms caused by these tumors. Side effects and toxicities from these agents, however, can be quite pronounced, especially in patients with advanced AIDS Antiretroviral therapy, prophylaxis for opportunistic infections, and the use of hematopoietic growth factors should be routinely included in the management of these patients. Newer chemotherapeutic agents and combination regimens may be more effective or less toxic than previously evaluated regimens.