The symptoms of Kaposi’s sarcoma vary depending on whether the lesions or growths develop. The skin and the organs are most commonly affected.
The skin
Any part of the skin, including inside the mouth, can be affected by Kaposi’s sarcoma.
Small, painless, flat areas (lesions) or lumps usually develop first. The lesions can be different colours, including brown, red, blue and purple. They can look similar to bruises but, unlike bruises, they don't lose their colour when they're pressed.
The lesions are the result of multiple abnormal cell growths (tumours), which affect small blood vessels under the skin.
Lesions that develop inside the mouth can become damaged when chewing. This can cause them to bleed, which can make speaking and eating more difficult.
Although Kaposi’s sarcoma growths usually start in one place, they can develop in more than one area. The growths often eventually merge into each other to form a single larger tumour, giving a patchwork appearance.
The internal organs
The internal organs most commonly affected by Kaposi’s sarcoma are the lymph nodes, lungs and the digestive system.
The symptoms of Kaposi’s sarcoma depend on which organs are affected. When the lymph nodes are affected, there may be swelling in the arms and legs which can be very painful and uncomfortable.
This is known as lymphoedema and it is caused by the Kaposi’s sarcoma cells blocking the flow of fluid through the lymph nodes. As a result, the fluid in the tissue backs up, causing swelling in the body’s tissues.
Read more about lymphoedema.
In cases where the lungs are affected, symptoms may include breathlessness. Where the digestive system is affected, symptoms can include feeling sick and being sick.
