Types of Kaposi's sarcoma

Epidemic or AIDS-related KS Back to top

Epidemic KS is associated with HIV infection. It’s the most common of the four types. If HIV develops and the immune system becomes damaged, people who have human herpes virus 8 are more likely to get KS. KS is now less common in the UK because HIV is usually well controlled with treatment. 

Classic KS Back to top

Classic KS is rare. Like many other cancers, it develops without a weakened immune system. It’s more common in older men of Mediterranean, Middle Eastern or Jewish descent.

This type of KS is normally only found in the skin, particularly on the lower legs and feet. It’s a slow-growing cancer, and people with early classic KS may not need treatment.

Endemic or African KS Back to top

Endemic KS is found in parts of Africa where human herpes virus 8 is more common. It develops more quickly than classic KS, and can affect men, women and children of all ages, although it’s more common in men.

Acquired KS (sometimes called transplant KS) Back to top

Rarely, people who have a weakened or damaged immune system after an organ transplant develop acquired KS. This is because they need to takes drugs that suppress their immune system (immunosupressants) to reduce the risk of rejecting the donated organ.