Kaposi sarcoma presenting as "diffuse gingival enlargement": Report of three cases

Background Kaposi sarcoma (KS) is an angio-proliferative disorder, associated with human herpes virus-8 (HHV-8) infection. Its occurrence may be favored by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and iatrogenic immunosuppression. Methods In this article, we report on three cases of oral KS, presented as diffuse gingival enlargement. Results All cases were in men; one was HIV-negative, receiving immunosuppressive therapy. The other two patients were subsequently found to have HIV/AIDS. The clinical, histopathological and immuno-histochemical features of the lesions are presented and relevant literature is reviewed. Conclusions Patients presenting reddish blue macules, plaques or nodular lesions on the skin or oropharyngeal mucosa, should be suspected for having KS whenever an immunosuppressive therapy is involved. If the patient is not treated by immunosuppressive medications, it is important to determine the HIV status, as it is crucial in the overall management of patients diagnosed with KS.