Detection of herpesvirus-like DNA sequences in Mediterranean Kaposi's sarcoma.

The aetiology of Kaposi's sarcoma remains obscure, however, epidemiological studies indicate that the disease possesses an infectious aetiology. Recent data revealed the presence of specific herpesvirus-like DNA sequences (KHSV) in all forms of Kaposi's sarcoma indicating that a novel virus may be the infectious agent which causes the disease. The aim of the present investigation was to assess the incidence of this herpesvirus-like DNA sequence in 28 Mediterranean Kaposi's sarcomas. DNA was extracted from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues and analysed by a sensitive PCR based assay. The KSHV specific DNA sequences were found in 22 of 28 (79%) cases suggesting a potential important role in the development of the disease.