Treating Kaposi's sarcoma with immunotherapy

This type of treatment is occasionally used to treat Kaposi's sarcoma. It is often used alongside other treatments such as anti-HIV therapies. Immunotherapy involves the use of proteins normally produced by the body during viral infections such as flu. These anti-viral proteins can also be produced in a laboratory.

Interferon

Interferon| is the most common type of immunotherapy used to treat KS and is usually given three times a week by injection under the skin. Alternatively, it may be injected into the lesion. The needle is very small and fine so the injections are only slightly uncomfortable. You will be taught how to give yourself these injections so you can do them at home.

In the first week or two of treatment, interferon can cause side effects similar to those of flu: especially chills, fever, headaches, tiredness and aching in the back, joints and muscles. However, these soon disappear. Your doctor may recommend that you take paracetamol about half an hour before your injection to prevent these side effects.