Isolated Kaposi’s Sarcoma of the Bulbar Conjunctiva as an Initial Manifestation of AIDS: A Case Report

Abstract

Kaposi’s sarcoma (KS) is a malignant vascular endothelium-cell-derived tumor caused by human herpesvirus 8. It is one of the most common tumors among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients; however, isolated KS is rarely reported as the initial presentation. This study describes a rare case in which isolated KS of the bulbar conjunctiva was the first presenting symptom leading to the diagnosis of HIV/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) in a 39-year-old man. The patient, who had no prior medical history, presented to the ophthalmology clinic with an isolated large, dark-reddish mass in the left bulbar conjunctiva and subconjunctival hemorrhage. The mass was first identified 6 months prior and had continued to grow since then. KS was confirmed based on the analysis of the incisional biopsy sample, subsequently prompting an HIV test, which was positive. This report highlights the recognition of KS as a relevant ocular complication and potential initial manifestation of AIDS. Additionally, KS should be considered in the differential diagnosis of any vascular lesion, even when present at uncommon sites.

Keywords

• kaposi’s sarcoma
• bulbar conjunctiva
• acquired immunodeficiency virus
• human immunodeficiency virus