Kaposi’s Sarcoma and Human Herpesvirus 8 in Cuba: Evidence of subtype B expansion

ObjectiveTo evaluate the temporal distribution (1991–2009) and associated variation of KSHV subtypes in Cuba.MethodPhylogenetic characterization based on the KSHV K1 gene was performed using 90 KSHV positive samples.ResultsMolecular characterization confirmed the prevalence of a wide range of KSHV subtypes (A: n=48 [A5=12]; C: n=15; B: n=22; and E: n=5). In the current study, we observed a significant increase in HHV-8 subtype B after 2004 (p=0.0063). This Subtype B in Cuba was associated with: heterosexual behaviour (OR: 3.63, CI: 1,2–10,98; p=0.03), with the antecedent of acquiring HIV/KSHV in Africa (p=0.0003), with nodular stage of KS lesions (OR 4.2, CI: 1.1 to 15.7; p=0.04).ConclusionOur study is the first to report KSHV Subtype B expansion in Cuba, that might be reflective of a change in human behavioural pattern.