HHV8 a subtype is associated with rapidly evolving classic Kaposi's sarcoma

Abstract

The link between human herpesvirus 8 (KSHV) and Kaposi's Sarcoma (KS) has been proven, but many important aspects including risk factors, genetic predisposition to tumor development, transmission of KHSV, and the pathogenic potential of different genotypes remain to be elucidated.Possible associations between clinical parameters and antibody levels, viral load fluctuations, and viral genotype were analyzed by quantitative real-time PCR, an in-house developed IFA assay, and sequence analysis of ORF K1-VR1 in blood, serum and saliva of 38 subjects with classic KS (cKS). KHSV lytic antibodies were significantly increased in stage IV compared to stage I and II patients (p= 0.006 and p=0.041, respectively). KHSV blood, serum, and saliva viral load was comparable in all stages. The highest viral loads were detected in saliva, and they decreased in stage III-IV compared to stage I-II patients. Higher concentrations of lytic antibodies and higher viral loads were observed in fast progressing cKS patients, in whom KHSV detection from blood was also more frequent. Type A KSHV strain was almost exclusively present in fast progressors (12/17 cases), while C type was mainly present in slow progressing patients (6/7 cases). Finally, detection of type A KHSV strain associated with higher blood viral loads.KHSV lytic antibody levels and viral load can be used to monitor clinical evolution of cKS. Infection supported by KHSV A subtype is associated with faster progressing disease. Careful monitoring and aggressive therapeutic protocols should be considered in patients with KHSV A-supported infection.

Non-AIDS-related Kaposi's sarcoma: A single-institution experience

“…The four described clinical variants, i.e., classic, endemic, iatrogenic and epidemic KS, show a distinct natural history and prognosis [2] , but all share a causal relationship with human herpes virus 8 (HHV-8) [3] . Infection with this virus is a necessary condition, but it is not sufficient alone to cause KS, highlighting how genetic and angiogenic factors and the production of several inflammatory cytokines play a role in the multistep pathogenesis of KS [4] .…”

Increased prevalence of Kaposi΄s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus in the Kaposi΄s sarcoma-endemic area of Western Kenya in 1981–2000

“…The highest viral loads were detected in saliva (Koelle et al, 1997;Mancuso et al, 2008). Safe sex practices do not protect against the KSHV infection probably due to the virus presence in saliva.…”

Prevalence of antibodies against Kaposi's sarcoma associated herpes virus (KSHV) complement inhibitory protein (KCP) in KSHV-related diseases and their correlation with clinical parameters

“…Blood samples of the two patients' groups were collected in Italy, a region where KS occurs with higher frequency compared to the rest of Europe [5]. Additionally, the second Italian group included patients suffering only from classical KS, who have been classified as slow or fast progressing [6]. The third group included a population-based sample of healthy individuals from northern Sweden, who were positive for anti-lytic or anti-latent KSHV antigens [7].…”