KS and steroid

 Q: Extent of Kaposi Sarcoma (KS) can be controlled with the maintenance of low dose steroid? 

 A) True 

B) False 

 Answer: B

The objective of the above question is to highlight the inverse relationship between steroids and KS. Steroids tend to worsen KS and weaning/withdrawal of steroid is associated with regression of KS lesions. 

In immunocompromised patients, there is a frequent need to use steroids such as during PJP treatment in AIDS patients. The risk of KS or proliferation of existing KS lesions should be kept in mind if steroids are instituted in immunocompromised patients such as AIDS, post-transplant, autoimmune and lymphoproliferative diseases.

#oncology

References:

1. Trattner A, Hodak E, David M, Sandbank M. The appearance of Kaposi sarcoma during corticosteroid therapy. Cancer 1993; 72:1779. 

2. Gill PS, Loureiro C, Bernstein-Singer M, et al. Clinical effect of glucocorticoids on Kaposi sarcoma related to the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Ann Intern Med 1989; 110:937.