Isolated adult lymphadenopathy: a rare presentation of Langerhans cell histiocytosis

Am J Otolaryngol. 2015 Jan-Feb;36(1):103-5. doi: 10.1016/j.amjoto.2014.10.016. Epub 2014 Oct 16.

Abstract

Intro: Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a rare disease involving the proliferation of histiocytes in one or more organ systems. The presentation of LCH is more common in the pediatric population and rarely occurs within the adult population. Isolated lymph node involvement is an extremely rare presentation of the disease. The authors present a case of isolated lymph node LCH in an otherwise healthy adult female and discuss management strategies for these unusual findings.

Methods: A case report of a patient at a tertiary care facility in June 2014 is discussed.

Results/discussion: The diagnosis, clinical course, and management strategies for isolated adult LCH are discussed and reviewed.

Conclusion: Langerhans cell histiocytosis rarely presents with isolated lymph node involvement in adults. Management and surveillance algorithms are discussed in this unusual case of seemingly benign lymphadenopathy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Biopsy
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Histiocytosis, Langerhans-Cell / diagnosis*
  • Humans
  • Lymphatic Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Young Adult