A 30-year-old HIV-positive man (CD4 count 180 cells/μL) presents with multiple painless, non-pruritic violaceous nodules on the skin and oral mucosa. Biopsy shows spindle-shaped cells with slit-like vascular spaces and extravasated red blood cells. What is the most likely causative organism?
- A Human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8) ✓
- B Epstein-Barr virus
- C Cytomegalovirus
- D Human papillomavirus
Correct answer: A. Human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8)
Explanation
The presentation is classic Kaposi sarcoma, caused by HHV-8 (Kaposi sarcoma-associated herpesvirus). Histopathology shows spindle cells, slit-like vascular spaces, and extravasated red cells. EBV is associated with primary CNS lymphoma and oral hairy leukoplakia. CMV causes retinitis and colitis. HPV causes warts and cervical/anal dysplasia.
Reference: Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.