Most cancers start in one place and then spread to other parts of the body. When these cancers are found early, they are more likely to be curable. Kaposi sarcoma (KS) is different, because it tends to form in several areas at the same time. Even when only one skin lesion is visible, many people already have other areas of KS that are just too small to be seen.
There are no recommended routine screening tests to look for KS in people who are not at increased risk of the disease.
People infected with HIV are much more likely to develop KS, so many health experts recommend that people infected with HIV be examined regularly by health care providers who are experienced in recognizing KS and other diseases that go along with HIV infection and AIDS. People with possible symptoms of KS (see Signs and Symptoms of Kaposi Sarcoma) should see their doctors right away so that the cause can be found as soon as possible and treated, if needed.
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Last Revised: April 19, 2018
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