Managing AIDS-related Kaposi’s sarcoma and pregnancy

Abstract

An estimated 30 - 40% of HIV-infected patients are likely to develop cancer during the progression of their disease. The occurrence of malignancy among these patients represents a difficult challenge in their care. Kaposi’s sarcoma (KS) – currently the most common tumour observed with an estimated incidence of 15 - 20% – represents the first manifestation of AIDS in 30 - 40% of patients. Any organ may be involved, but the gastrointestinal tract and lung remain the most frequently involved locations. The case described here presented a clinical and ethical dilemma where visceral KS, pregnancy and medical complications required multi-disciplinary management.