Radiotherapy of classic and human immunodeficiency virus-related Kaposi's sarcoma: results in 1482 lesions

Background The lesions of the various forms of Kaposi's sarcoma (KS), which are relatively radiosensitive, have been treated with different modalities of radiotherapy, with heterogeneous aims and results. Objective To verify the effectiveness and safety of radiotherapy on a large number of lesions endowed (classic KS) with a prolonged follow-up. Methods A retrospective study was done on 711 lesions of classic KS and 771 lesions of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-related KS, treated with traditional X-ray therapy. Results in classic KS, a cure rate of 98.7% resulted after 13.5 years from the end of radiotherapy. In three lesions (0.42%) in the same patient, an acute radiodermatitis occurred after traumatic action. In HIV-related KS, a complete remission was obtained in 91.43% of the lesions, partial remission in 6.74% and non-response in 0.51% at 1 to 46 months from the end of radiotherapy. Conclusion Radiotherapy showed to be a safe and effective method, with relevant importance in the therapeutic strategy of KS.