AIDS-Associated Kaposi Sarcoma
It is also known as the "Epidemic KS" which was described back in 1980s as an aggressive disease in AIDS patients; over 300 times more common in AIDS patients than in renal transplant recipients.
Causes: A virus called human herpesvirus 8 or HHV8 causes KS among AIDS patients. Due to the weakened immune system, the virus creates tumour growth in various parts of the body which is fatal.
Transmission: Saliva can be a transmission medium which risks individuals through kissing. It is also a major transmission mode if used as a sexual lubricant.
Treatment: No cure. Kaposi sarcoma can only be managed but remission may occur with high-resistance against drugs. Other intervention may include surgery and systemic therapy.
Staph Infection
Staphylococcus aureus are usually found in the human respiratory tract and on the skin which not always pathogenic. However, disease-associated strains can cause life-threatening diseases such as pneumonia, meningitis and endocarditis.
Causes: Certain strain of staphylococcus aureus and the Methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus or MRSA.
Transmission: Respiratory infection caused by staphyloccus aureus can be transmitted from one person to another via sneezing or coughing.
Treatment: Antibiotics such as penicillin are used to treat staph infection but drug-resistant strains are now common.
