194 Where There Is No Dentist 2012
5. Red or purple patches in the mouth
(Kaposi’s sarcoma)
Painless, red-, brown-,
or purple-colored patches
(that look like swollen
bruises). They can appear
anywhere in the mouth.
The patches in this picture
are on the top (roof) of
the mouth.
Some people infected with HIV will get red- or purple-colored patches in
the mouth. These patches are called Kaposi’s sarcoma and they can also
appear elsewhere on the body. Kaposi’s sarcoma can be an early sign of
HIV infection.
Signs:
Painless patches that look like swollen bruises around or inside the
mouth. The red or purple color is more obvious in the mouth. The
patches rarely become infected and painful, usually only if they burst.
Treatment:
Get advice from a health worker
or doctor who is experienced
with the problems of HIV.
People who are taking anti-
retroviral medicines (ARVs) tend
not to get this kind of cancer.
And starting treatment with
ARVs can keep it from getting
worse. Sometimes very strong
anti-cancer medicines are used.
Also, some medicines for
treatment of varicose veins can
be helpful.