diagnostic challenge and management of pulmonary Kaposi's sarcoma in renal transplant recipients

ABSTRACT

Kaposi's sarcoma is a multicentric low grade tumor that usually begins with the development of violaceous skin lesions and is associated with the presence of human herpes virus 8. Kaposi's sarcoma has been described in immunocompromised patients, particularly following renal transplantation, with cutaneous involvement being the most salient finding. Infectious and non-infectious pulmonary disorders in immunocompromised patients can simulate the radiological manifestations of pulmonary Kaposi's sarcoma. This report highlights the dilemma in reaching an accurate diagnosis of pulmonary Kaposis sarcoma as a complication of immunosuppression post-renal transplant and reviews the management of immunosuppression related Kaposi's sarcoma