Trends and morphologic variants of Kaposi Sarcoma as seen in Nnewi, Anambra State, Nigeria

Abstract

Kaposi sarcoma (KS) is a human herpes virus type 8 (HHV-8) driven neoplasm with varying morphologic features and attendant diagnostic dilemma. This study presents the trend of KS in our environment and the different morphologic variants, with a view to arousing awareness and reducing missed and delayed diagnosis. KS accounted for 18.34% and 59.66% of vascular neoplasms and malignant vascular neoplasms, respectively with most KS occurring in the background of human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS). The frequency peaked in 2013 and began to decline with a fairly even sex distribution. There are diverse variants of KS that can pose diagnostic challenges. Hence, there is need for this awareness to enhance prompt and accurate diagnosis.