Frequencies of HLA and Gm immunogenetic markers in Kaposi's sarcoma

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Abstract
An outbreak of Kaposi''s sarcoma in homosexual men has recently been observed in New York and California [USA] which differs from the classic North American disease with regard to younger age of onset and clinical prognosis. Although the exact mechanism for initiation of either disease is still unknown, a viral mechanism has been suggested in both cases. To investigate the possible role of HLA-associated variations in genetic susceptibility, 39 patients with histologically documented Kaposi''s sarcoma were typed for HLA-A,-B,-C antigens. Most of these patients were also typed for HLA-DR antigens and for Gm allotypes. A significant incrase in DR5 occurred in both groups. Decreases in B8 and DR3 and an increase in homozygosity for the Gm haplotype 3;5,13 were also noted. HLA and Gm linked immune response factors may play a role in the induction of both these forms of the disease.