Velopharyngeal Dysfunction due to Kaposi Sarcoma: A Report Case

Introduction: Kaposi sarcoma is a mucocutaneous neoplasm associated with human herpesvirus 8 and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Initially, the most common site of involvement is the skin. In some cases, there are visceral, ganglion, and oral injuries. Lesions in the hard and soft palate are not common, but they may cause velopharyngeal dysfunction. This condition affects speech production and allows penetration of food in the nasal cavity.

Objective: This study presents a case of velopharyngeal dysfunction caused by soft palate lesion of Kaposi sarcoma.

Resumed Report: A 25-year-old, HIV-positive patient presented with scattered lesions of Kaposi sarcoma. The palate was involved during disease’s evolution leading to nasal regurgitation of food due to velopharyngeal dysfunction. During hospitalization, this condition remained stable after introduction of pasty food, with no speech disorders.

Conclusion: Velopharyngeal dysfunction is an uncommon clinical manifestation of Kaposi sarcoma and can be difficult for most physicians to handle with it. The treatment is based on the improvement of the immunosuppressive condition. Furthermore, a change in the food consistency allied to speech therapy approach is important and sometimes palatal prosthesis can be necessary.