J Korean Soc Radiol.  2020 Sep;81(5):1260-1265. 10.3348/jksr.2019.0183.

Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Associated Gastrointestinal Kaposi's Sarcoma: A Case Report

• Lim HJ
• Park SH
• Choi SJ
• Park S
• Lee HY
• Chung JW
• Chung DH

• KMID: 2507426
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3348/jksr.2019.0183

Abstract

Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) is a multicentric human immunodeficiency virus-associated neoplasm characterized by multiple vascular nodules in the skin, mucous membranes, and viscera. Gastrointestinal acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)-related KS is the most common visceral involvement reported in disseminated disease. Here, we present the findings of a rare case of KS involving multiple organs with abdominal pain and active bleeding in the colon. Multiple intraluminal lesions were found in the terminal ileum, sigmoid colon, and rectum by ileocolonoscopy, and in the jejunum and ileum by fluoroscopy. Abdominopelvic CT revealed multiple enhanced flat lesions in the ileum and enlarged lymph nodes. The diagnosis was confirmed by histopathology, and antiretroviral therapy was initiated as the treatment of choice for KS. Owing to the increasing number of AIDS patients, it is essential for radiologists and clinicians to be aware of the imaging characteristics of KS to protect physicians from indiscriminate exposure to AIDS.

Keyword

Sarcoma; Kaposi; Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome; Small Intestine