NCT06375122 · National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Natural History Study of Kaposi Sarcoma
What this study is about
Background: Kaposi sarcoma (KS) is a type of tumor caused by the Kaposi sarcoma herpesvirus. KS usually affects the skin, but lesions can also appear in the lymph nodes, lungs and digestive tract. KS is most common in people with compromised immunity, but it also appears in otherwise healthy people.
View original scientific description
Background: Kaposi sarcoma (KS) is a type of tumor caused by the Kaposi sarcoma herpesvirus. KS usually affects the skin, but lesions can also appear in the lymph nodes, lungs and digestive tract. KS is most common in people with compromised immunity, but it also appears in otherwise healthy people. Researchers want to understand more about how KS develops, why it may recur, and how it affects the immune system and organs. Objective: To learn more about the natural history of KS. Eligibility: People aged 18 years and older with KS. Design: Participants will be screened. They will have a physical exam with blood tests. They will have an imaging scan. They may need a new biopsy: Tissue samples may be cut from their tumor. Their ability to perform normal activities will be assessed. Participants will visit the clinic to have their KS evaluated. In addition to the imaging scans and other tests performed during screening, procedures may include: Eye exam. Ultrasound exam of the heart (electrocardiogram). Collection of saliva and urine samples. Biopsies of the skin or lymph nodes. Swabs of the anus and cervix. Photographs of skin lesions. Removal of fluid samples from the space around the lungs, intestine, or heart. The evaluation visit will be repeated 5 more times over 18 months and then yearly for up to 10 years. Participants will follow their standard treatment for KS during the study.
Primary outcome measures
To characterize the natural history of Kaposi sarcoma (KS), including presentation, manifestation, and proportion of participants with KS with remission and recurrence by epidemiologic subtype
Time frame: 10 years
Assessment of the proportion of participants with KS by epidemiologic subtype who experience remission and recurrent KS over the course of the disease
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Participants must have histological KS confirmed by the Laboratory of Pathology (LP), NCI.
- KS as assessed by cutaneous or oral KS lesions or other assessable KS disease.
- Age \>=18 years.
- ECOG performance status \<=4.
- Ability of participant to understand and the willingness to sign a written informed consent document.
Exclusion criteria
- Participants with active KSHV-associated inflammatory cytokine syndrome (KICS), multicentric Castleman disease (MCD), or primary effusion lymphoma (PEL).
- Participants with serious and/or uncontrolled severe intercurrent illness, such as opportunistic infections, that in the judgement of the investigator would preclude participation in the study.
Where
- Bethesda, Maryland
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Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jun 1, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations