Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus

Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV), also known as human herpesvirus 8 (HHV8), is a type of herpesvirus that is linked with Kaposi's sarcoma, a type of cancer that forms masses in the skin, lymph nodes, or other organs. The virus is also associated with two other types of diseases: primary effusion lymphoma (PEL) and a form of Multicentric Castleman's disease (MCD).

Discovery

KSHV was first identified in 1994 by Yuan Chang and Patrick S. Moore, two researchers at the University of Pittsburgh. They discovered the virus in a sample of Kaposi's sarcoma tissue from a patient with AIDS. The discovery of KSHV has led to a better understanding of the pathogenesis of Kaposi's sarcoma and the other diseases associated with the virus.

Transmission

KSHV is transmitted through saliva. It can also be transmitted through sexual contact, organ transplantation, and from mother to child during birth. The virus is not highly contagious and is mostly found in certain populations, such as men who have sex with men, people from certain regions of Africa, and people with weakened immune systems.

Pathogenesis

After infection, KSHV can remain dormant in the body for a long time. However, when the immune system is weakened, the virus can reactivate and cause disease. KSHV infects the endothelial cells that line blood vessels and lymphatic vessels, as well as B cells, a type of white blood cell. The virus can cause these cells to proliferate and form tumors, leading to Kaposi's sarcoma.

Treatment

There is currently no cure for KSHV. However, antiviral drugs can help control the virus and prevent or treat diseases caused by KSHV. In addition, treatment of Kaposi's sarcoma often involves chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

See also

• Herpesvirus
• Kaposi's sarcoma
• Primary effusion lymphoma
• Multicentric Castleman's disease