Radiotherapy in the management of Kaposi's sarcoma

Abstract

Introduction: Of all types of Kaposi's sarcoma (KS), only AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome)-related KS is of clinical importance, although its incidence has significantly declined in the last years. KS is considered a radiosensitive tumor, and good palliation of symptoms can be achieved with radiotherapy.

Material and methods: Evident radiotherapy data in the available literature were reviewed to analyze and evaluate indications, techniques, dose concepts and outcomes in radiation treatment of KS.

Results: Good palliation of KS symptoms can be achieved by radiotherapy, with more than 90% response and 70% complete remission. For patients with far advanced AIDS, a single dose of 8 Gy is preferable. The following doses have been shown to be sufficient: 15 Gy for oral lesions, 20 Gy for lesions involving the eyelids, conjunctivae and genitals, 30-40 Gy in single doses of 2 Gy for cutaneous lesions. Side effects are rare, and radiation is usually well tolerated, with minimal skin reactions -- except for patients with mucosa lesions, where a high degree of mucositis is often observed.

Conclusion: Radiotherapy has its place in the management of KS as an efficient treatment, often representing the optimal local therapy for palliation of pain, bleeding or edema.