Regression of human immunodeficiency virus-associated oral Kaposi sarcoma with combined antiretroviral therapy: A case report and literature review.

BACKGROUND: Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) is the most prevalent malignant neoplasia in human immunodeficiency virus positive (HIV+) patients for which the primary mode of management was chemotherapy.

METHODS: We have presented the case of a newly diagnosed HIV+ male patient who was diagnosed with a pedunculated nodule in the anterior region of the hard palate, measuring 3.5 cm in diameter and with 2 months of evolution.

RESULTS: Histopathological examination confirmed the clinical hypothesis of KS. Soon after the diagnosis, the patient started using combined antiretroviral therapy (Biovir and Kaletra), presenting a significant reduction of the lesion after 4 weeks. With 1.5 cm in diameter, the lesion was surgically removed. The patient was followed-up for 10 years without any recurrence.

CONCLUSION: In antiretroviral-naive patients with a well-preserved immune system, the use of cART may be efficient in reducing the progression of the KS lesions, thus avoiding the use of chemotherapeutic agents.