

Medical Mystery Monday #79: the case of the purple spots


Happy Monday, all. Can you solve today’s patient case?

A 35 year old man comes to the physician because of a rash that has been developing on his legs over several months. He has noted multiple purple, raised lesions that are not itchy or painful on both lower legs. The patient otherwise feels well. He has a history of HIV infection diagnosed 10 years ago, for which he takes medication (though admits to occasionally forgetting doses).

The physical exam reveals innumerable raised purple spots, up to 2 centimeters in diameter, over both lower legs (shown below). There are a few scattered purple spots on the patient’s chest and arms as well. The doctor notes the patient also has abnormal appearing gums (shown below), and the patient mentions he has a dentist appointment to get that checked out next week. The rest of the physical exam is normal.

What is the most likely diagnosis?


The rash seen on both legs.

The patient's gums.

Marianne DiNapoli

24 Responses

  1. Mike says:

    Kaposi sarcoma.

  2. Angelita says:

    Kaposi’s sarcoma

  3. D's Mom says:

    Kaposi’s Sarcoma

  4. mountain girl says:

    Kaposi’s sarcoma

  5. Priscilla says:

    Kaposi’s sarcoma

  6. Peaceable Traveller says:

    I think that he has been “forgetting” his medications more frequently than he is willing to admit. This looks like Kaposi’s Sarcoma, which is frequently found in patients with active, uncontrolled AIDs. Not good.

  7. Kate says:

    Kaposi Sarcoma

  8. Rich S says:

    Kaposi’s sarcoma

  9. F says:

    Kaposi’s sarcoma

  10. D2 says:

    Kaposi’s Sarcoma

  11. k says:

    AIDS-associated Kaposi sarcoma

  12. ColorMaven says:

    Kaposi’s Sarcoma.

  13. Anthony M says:

    Kaposi’s sarcoma

  14. Al says:

    Kaposi’s sarcoma

  15. DG says:

    Kaposi’s sarcoma

  16. Greg says:

    Based on medical hx and appearance, I would say Kaposi’s Sarcoma. Love your blog!

  17. Erin says:

    Kaposi sarcoma

  18. JP says:

    Kaposi’s sarcoma?

  19. Theresa says:

    kaposi’s sarcoma

  20. sally says:

    Is it Kaposi Sarcoma?

  21. Myra says:

    kaposis sarcoma