Classic Type of Kaposi's Sarcoma Showing Spontaneous Regression

Jang, Yong Hyun; Choi, Yoon Hyuk; Kim, Jun Young; Kim, Ho Youn; Lee, Weon Ju; Lee, Seok Jong; Kim, Do Won

Abstract

Self-regression of Kaposi's sarcoma is rare with the exception of the iatrogenic immunosuppressive type. No cases of classic type Kaposi's sarcoma showing spontaneous regression have been reported in the Korean dermatologic literature. We report a case of classic type of Kaposi's sarcoma in a 69-year-old man which followed a clinical course of spontaneous regression. He presented with multiple asymptomatic beefy red papules and nodules scattered on both cheeks and upper extremities during a state of increase in the number of skin lesions at the initial visit. He had no history of immunosuppressive treatment and the laboratory findings were unremarkable. An anti-HIV antibody test was negative. A histopathologic examination revealed typical findings of Kaposi's sarcoma and positive staining with CD31 and D2-40. HHV-8 DNA was detected in a biopsy specimen. Without any specific treatment, the skin lesions healed without leaving any complications after 15 months, and did not show any evidence of recurrence during the ensuing 5 years.