Flow cytometric DNA analysis of classic and steroid-induced Kaposi's sarcoma.

Flow cytometric DNA analysis of various tumours has indicated a correlation between the degree of malignancy and ploidy; results which could have clinical significance. We analysed the ploidy of Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) tumours, and classified the results according to clinical history and histological findings. We found that patients on steroid treatment had an aneuploid pattern, and most of the patients with classic-type KS had a diploid pattern on flow cytometry.

The therapeutic effect of intralesional interferon in classical Kaposi's sarcoma.

Interferon alpha-2a, which has antineoplastic, antiviral, immunomodulatory, and antiangiogenic effects, was evaluated in a prospective study, treating 10 lesions of patients with classical Kaposi's sarcoma. Ten patients received injections of interferon alpha-2a intralesionally in a dose of 3 million units three times weekly for 4 weeks, and in a variable dose for 4 more weeks. Two of the patients had a complete response, and in one of these, distant lesions also responded. Seven had a partial response, and one did not respond. The treatment was generally well tolerated. The results of our study support the use of interferon in the therapy of classical Kaposi's sarcoma, although it would appear that to achieve maximum efficacy, a longer period of treatment is needed.

Acne fulminans with hepatosplenomegaly and erythema nodosum migrans.

Acne fulminans is a rare form of acne characterized by ulcerative nodules and associated with systemic complications. We report the case of a 17-year-old boy with cystic acne who experienced sudden onset of acne fulminans associated with fever, weight loss, hepatosplenomegaly, and erythema nodosum migrans. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of acne fulminans manifested by hepatomegaly and erythema nodosum migrans.