AIDS-Related Cancers
With a weakened immune system, individuals infected with the human immunodeficiency virus, or HIV, have a substantially higher risk of developing certain cancers than those who are virus-free. For instance, with HIV you are nearly 800 times more likely to be diagnosed with Kaposi sarcoma, which causes purplish lesions to develop under your skin.
Medical professionals mark the development of Kaposi sarcoma, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and cervical cancer as the defining point when an individual is diagnosed with Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, or AIDS.
Recently Answered
- Q Who is most at risk for AIDS-related cancers?
-
You are most likely to develop AIDS-related cancer if you have HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) plus another risk factor. A few of these risk factors include: a low CD4 (white blood cell) count smoking or excessive drinking human herpesvirus 8... Full Answer
2 Answers
A
- Q What causes AIDS-related cancers?
-
People with HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) have weakened immune systems. This makes them more likely to have cancer-causing viruses, and it also makes it harder for them to fight off cancer cells. For example, human papillomavirus (HPV) can cause... Full Answer
1 Answer
A
- Q What are AIDS-related cancers?
-
People with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are more likely than other people to develop certain AIDS-related cancers. Some of these are called AIDS-defining cancers because they define the point at which HIV has developed into AIDS (acquired... Full Answer
2 Answers
A
- Q How does HIV affect my risk of developing cancer?
-
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection results in varying degrees of immune system suppression and brings an increased risk of cancer. Cancers most commonly associated with HIV infection are known to be caused by other associated... Full Answer
1 Answer
A
- Q What are the treatment options for AIDS-related cancers?
-
If you have AIDS-related cancer, take medication to fight the HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) while treating the cancer. This strategy makes it possible to treat the cancer aggressively. For example, anti-HIV medication can let people with HIV to take... Full Answer
1 Answer
A
- Q Should I talk to my doctor about my AIDS-related cancer symptoms?
-
If you have HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) and notice symptoms that may be signs of cancer, you should talk to your doctor. Since there are several different AIDS-related cancers, symptoms can vary widely. Almost all of them can also be signs of... Full Answer
1 Answer
A
- Q Is there a cure for AIDS-related cancers?
-
Some cancers can be treated successfully, including many lymphomas, which are some of the most common AIDS-related cancers. Even cancers that cannot be cured may be controlled for a long time, with the right treatment. AIDS-related cancers do present a... Full Answer
1 Answer
A
- Q How do I manage my AIDS-related cancer on a daily basis?
-
Managing AIDS-related cancer means treating both the cancer and the HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) infection. You will need to take anti-HIV medicine in addition to chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery for the cancer. Your doctor may also prescribe... Full Answer
1 Answer
A
- Q How common are AIDS-related cancers?
-
In the United States and other developed nations, about 40 percent of people with HIV or AIDS get cancer - especially certain types. For example, people with HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) face an 800 times greater chance than someone without HIV of... Full Answer
1 Answer
A
- Q How are AIDS-related cancers diagnosed?
-
Doctors use different tests to diagnose different AIDS-related cancers. For example: Lymphoma may require several tests, including blood tests, imaging tests (such as a CT scan or MRI), and biopsy. Kaposi sarcoma may likewise require several tests. Your... Full Answer
1 Answer
A
