Of all types of Kaposi’s sarcoma (KS), only AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome)-related KS is of clinical importance, although its incidence has significantly declined in the last years. KS is considered a radiosensitive tumor, and good palliation of symptoms can be achieved with radiotherapy. Material and Methods:Evident radiotherapy data in the available literature were reviewed to analyze and evaluate indications, techniques,dose concepts and outcomes in radiation treatment of KS. Results: Good palliation of KS symptoms can be achieved by radiotherapy, with more than 90% response and 70% complete remission. For patients with far advanced AIDS, a single dose of 8 Gy is preferable. The following doses have been shown to be sufficient:15 Gy for oral lesions, 20 Gy for lesions involving the eyelids, conjunctivae and genitals, 30-40 Gy in single doses of 2 Gy for cutaneous lesions. Side effects are rare,and radiation is usually well tolerated, with minimal skin reactions - except for patients with mucosa lesions,where a high degree of mucositis is often observed. Conclusion:Radiotherapy has its place in the management of KS as an efficient treatment, often representing the optimal local therapy for palliation of pain, bleeding or edema.

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2006
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