Does regressed posttransplantation Kaposi's sarcoma recur following reintroduction of immunosuppression?

Abstract

We report a patient who developed generalized Kaposi's sarcoma (extensive skin and stomach lesions) 24 months after renal transplantation whilst on cyclosporin (CyA) and prednisolone. Kaposi's sarcoma disappeared completely upon withdrawal of CyA. The patient remained with a well-functioning graft and free of Kaposi's sarcoma for 36 months on prednisolone alone. CyA was reintroduced following an episode of acute rejection. Within 8 weeks, Kaposi's sarcoma reappeared on the skin at the same sites as the previously healed lesions. They completely disappeared again upon withdrawal of CyA. Azathioprine was then introduced and Kaposi's sarcoma lesions reappeared 6 months later.