Kaposi's sarcoma and AIDS in Uganda: its frequency and gastrointestinal distribution
Ravera, M.; Reggiori, A.; Cocozza, E.; Andreata, M.; Ciantia, F.
Italian Journal of Gastroenterology 26(7): 329-333
1994
ISSN/ISBN: 0392-0623 PMID: 7812024 Document Number: 289802
Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) was first reported in Uganda in 1982. As techniques for detecting AIDS have improved, the number of confirmed cases has increased. Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) has been reported in European studies of AIDS patients at a 34% prevalence rate. These studies mainly focused on homosexuals and intravenous drug users (IVDUs). This study aimed at establishing the frequency, distribution, and endoscopic appearance of gastrointestinal KS in Ugandan heterosexual patients and at verifying whether data published in the western international literature, mainly regarding homosexuals and IVDUs, could be applied to heterosexuals with AIDS. 27 Ugandan men and 36 Ugandan women served as study subjects. All had been diagnosed as AIDS-positive. All patients received complete upper and lower gastrointestinal examinations. The upper digestive tract was examined by oral-endoscopic procedures, while the lower portion was examined using flexible rectosigmoidoscopic techniques. 24 patients (38.1%) had gastrointestinal lesions; 21 of these (87.5%) had multiple lesions. 12 patients (19.1%) had KS involvement of both gastrointestinal areas. Tumors closely resembled those described in studies of homosexuals.