There are many common treatment-related problems with KS—especially depression of the bone marrow (causing anemia , low white blood cell counts that make infections more likely and low platelet counts with the possibility of bleeding), hair loss and nerve damage from the medicines.
• Frequent checks of the blood counts help reduce the risk of serious bone marrow effects, and are essential for
all patients on chemotherapy .
• Nerve damage will be regularly checked, with changes in medicine as needed to minimize this problem.
• Patients often need emotional and psychological support. Physical appearance is an important part of
self-image, and cosmetics may be needed to cover lesions ( see The Look Good...Feel Better Cosmetic Program )
• Pain is not common, but if it does occur pain relievers may be needed.
• Both common and uncommon infections will often be seen. After appropriate cultures are taken, antibiotics
may be needed.
• Nutrition is a common problem. Some patients will lose weight even with what appears to be good intake of
food, and these patients may benefit from nutritional counseling.
• Fluid may build up in body tissues, especially the legs, because KS lesions can block drainage. Local radiation
may relieve the obstruction. The use of diuretics (medicines that increase the flow of urine) under close
