What does Kaposi's sarcoma typically present with in the oral cavity?

Kaposi's sarcoma is a type of cancer that is most commonly associated with individuals who are immunocompromised, especially those with HIV/AIDS. In the oral cavity, it typically presents as red lesions. These lesions can vary in appearance, often appearing as flat or raised spots that may be difficult to distinguish from other oral lesions without further investigation. The reddish hue is indicative of vascular proliferation, which is characteristic of Kaposi's sarcoma due to the presence of numerous blood vessels.

The presence of red lesions is significant as it reflects the underlying pathophysiology of the disease, which involves neoplastic endothelial cells that lead to the formation of vascular tumors. Recognizing these lesions in the oral cavity is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment.

While other types of lesions in the oral cavity might present in different colors—such as white lesions seen in conditions like leukoplakia or swollen gums associated with periodontal disease—red lesions are a hallmark of Kaposi’s sarcoma and help differentiate it from other oral pathologies.