Kaposi's Sarcoma - Lesion on the Foot

Kaposi's sarcoma on the foot. This once-rare malignancy of the blood vessels is now associated with AIDS. It is more frequently associated with AIDS in homosexual men than AIDS in IV drug users. The malignancy results in purplish grape-like lesions in the skin, gastrointestinal tract and other organs.

HIV

HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a viral infection that gradually destroys the immune system. Practicing effective safe sex methods significantly reduces the risk of disease transmission.

Primary HIV Infection

HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is more frequently transmitted through unprotected sex or sharing contaminated needles. Transmission from mother to fetus or through blood products has significantly declined in the United States.

Kaposi's Sarcoma - Perianal

Kaposi's sarcoma usually occurs in male homosexuals with AIDS. These lesions can appear anywhere on the body as purple, elevated growths. This sarcoma is located near the anus (perianal).

Antibodies

Antigens are large molecules (usually proteins) on the surface of cells, viruses, fungi, bacteria, and some non-living substances such as toxins, chemicals, drugs, and foreign particles. The immune system recognizes antigens and produces antibodies that destroy substances containing antigens.