K

Kaposi's Sarcoma

Kaposi's sarcoma may develop at any time during the course of HIV infection. Generally, the greater the immunosuppression (e.g. with CD4 cell counts less than 200/mm3) the more extensive the Kaposi’s sarcoma will be. Kaposi's sarcoma presents as red to purplish spots (macules) and raised bumps (papules and nodules). They are generally first seen on the skin, commonly on legs or feet. They also occur in the mouth. Initially, the lesions are small and painless but they can ulcerate and become painful. Their visible presence may cause considerable anxiety. Kaposi's sarcoma lesions can also occur internally; in the gut, lungs, genitals and lymphatic system. These internal lesions may cause symptoms e.g. discomfort with swallowing, bleeding, shortness of breath, swollen legs, etc. Kaposi's sarcoma is a cancer of blood vessels that was considered very rare before the start of the AIDS pandemic. It is now the most frequent cancer to develop in people with AIDS, affecting about 20% overall.

Keloids

Occasionally scars enlarge spontaneously to form firm, smooth, hard growths called Keloids may be uncomfortable or itchy, and may be much larger than the original wound. As wounds heal, scar tissue forms, which at first is often red and somewhat prominent. Over several months, a scar usually becomes flat and pale. If there is a lot of tension on a healing wound, the healing area is rather thicker than usual. This is known as a hypertrophic scar.

Keratoacanthoma

A keratoacanthoma is a false skin cancer, which looks like a little volcano with a "core" in it. A keratoacanthoma (KA) often starts at the site of a minor injury to the skin, which has previously been damaged by the sun. At first it may appear as a small pimple or boil and may be squeezed but is found to have a solid core. It then grows rapidly and by the time it is brought to the attention of your doctor may be up to 2 cm in diameter.

Keratosis Pilaris

There are numerous tiny rough spots in the affected area. Each one is a horny plug, sometimes rather red but only rarely itchy and never sore. Keratosis Pilaris is a very common finding on the outer aspect of the upper arms of teenagers. Sometimes keratosis pilaris occurs on the thighs too, rarely elsewhere. It may occur in babies where it tends to be most obvious on the cheeks. It may remain for years but generally becomes less obvious in adult life; keratosis pilaris is uncommon in elderly people. Keratosis pilaris tends to be more severe during the winter months or other times of low humidity when skin dries out. Keratosis pilaris is completely harmless but sometimes unsightly. It occurs because as the skin renews itself, old skin cells in the hair follicles get stuck, forming a scaly plug.