Human immunodeficiency virus-related Kaposi's sarcoma of the appendix and acute appendicitis. Report of a case and review of the literature.

Abstract

We describe a case of acute appendicitis precipitated by human immunodeficiency virus-related Kaposi's sarcoma of the appendix. This presentation in an otherwise asymptomatic homosexual man led to the establishment of a diagnosis of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. Immediate follow-up revealed multicentric gastrointestinal involvement by Kaposi's sarcoma, and skin involvement ensued in 2 months. Salient features of this case and two other similar reports in the literature are highlighted.