In 1994, human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8), a causative agent for Kaposi’s sarcoma (KS), was identified. HHV-8 is also known as Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KS) because it was found in almost 100% of KS cases from AIDS patients.

A reduction in KS incidence among patients with AIDS in the 1980s has been attributed to lower rates of HHV-8 transmission that resulted from alterations in sexual behaviors. A further decline in KS incidence has been associated with the use of antiretroviral therapy. Antiretroviral therapy to control HIV replication and to limit the associated immunodeficiency is currently the best approach for preventing KS in persons infected with HHV-8 and HIV.