Kaposi Sarcoma Presenting as Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding in a Patient With Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome.

Abstract

Kaposi sarcoma (KS), an angioproliferative neoplasm driven by human herpesvirus 8, predominantly affects patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) or those on immunosuppressive therapy. Gastrointestinal involvement in KS is underreported, with limited literature highlighting its clinical significance and morphological diversity on endoscopy. This case report illustrates the complexities of diagnosing and managing gastrointestinal KS in an AIDS patient who presented with upper gastrointestinal bleeding. The diagnosis was established through the characteristic endoscopic appearance of the lesions, supported by histopathological confirmation. This case emphasizes the variable endoscopic manifestations of KS, ranging from linear ulcers to nodular lesions, and underscores the necessity for heightened clinical vigilance and multiple deep biopsies to avoid false-negative results. Treatment options, primarily palliative, include highly active antiretroviral therapy, chemotherapy, and radiation, yet the prognosis remains poor with high short-term mortality. This report contributes to the sparse literature on gastrointestinal KS, advocating for increased awareness and early intervention to potentially improve outcomes in this patient population.