Classic Kaposi's sarcoma in Italy, 1985–1998
2005

Classic Kaposi's Sarcoma in Italy (1985–1998)

Sample size: 1508 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Dal Maso L, Polesel J, Ascoli V, Zambon P, Budroni M, Ferretti S, Tumino R, Tagliabue G, Patriarca S, Federico M, Vercelli M, Giacomin A, Vicario G, Bellù F, Falcini F, Crocetti E, De Lisi V, Vitarelli S, Piffer S, Stracci F, Serraino D, Rezza G, Franceschi S

Primary Institution: Centro di Riferimento Oncologico IRCCS

Hypothesis

To evaluate incidence rates of classic Kaposi's sarcoma (CKS) in Italy after the spread of AIDS.

Conclusion

Between 1985 and 1998, classic Kaposi's sarcoma accounted for 97% of all Kaposi's sarcoma cases in elderly people in Italy.

Supporting Evidence

  • 874 cases of classic Kaposi's sarcoma and 634 cases of AIDS-related Kaposi's sarcoma were diagnosed in the study areas.
  • CKS accounted for 91% of KS cases in men and 100% in women aged 55 and older.
  • Incidence rates for CKS varied significantly across different regions in Italy.

Takeaway

This study looked at how many people got classic Kaposi's sarcoma in Italy over 13 years, especially in older folks. They found that most cases were in older people.

Methodology

The study used a record linkage procedure between 15 Cancer Registries and the national AIDS Registry to distinguish CKS from AIDS-related KS.

Potential Biases

Potential misclassification of some AIDS-related KS as classic KS.

Limitations

The study may have limitations due to the accuracy of distinguishing CKS from AKS.

Participant Demographics

The median age of CKS cases was 72 years, with only 14% occurring in persons below age 55.

Statistical Information

Confidence Interval

95% CI: 3.2–3.3

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1038/sj.bjc.6602265

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