There are several factors that may increase the risk of developing Kaposi's sarcoma. AIDS is only one of these. So, someone can have Kaposi's sarcoma and not be affected by AIDS.
Kaposi's sarcoma is linked to a virus called the human Kaposi's sarcoma virus (HKSV). It tends to affect people whose natural defence against infection, (immune system), is weakened.
There are four main types of KS. These are:
- Classic KS: this is rare. It tends to affect older men who come from Southern European countries, such as Italy or from Jewish families.
- Endemic, or African, KS: this is found in parts of Africa close to the equator. It can happen at any age, is commoner in men, but can affect women and children.
- KS due to a damaged or weakened immune system: this is rare but may happen in people who have had transplants and are taking drugs to suppress their immunity.
- AIDS-related KS