Virus infection in patients with histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis in Taiwan. Detection of Epstein-Barr virus, type I human T-cell lymphotropic virus, and parvovirus B19

Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease, simultaneously diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus in an Arabic female: an agonizing combination

Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease (KFD), also known as histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis, is a rare, benign condition affecting young Oriental-Asian females. It is characterized by fever and tender cervical lymphadenopathy with an unclear aetiology, and in most longitudinal reviews, KFD occurs before systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Herein, the case of a 28-year-old Kuwaiti female without any relevant past medical history, who was simultaneously diagnosed with KFD and SLE following an Ebstein-Barr virus infection, is reported. The patient was treated with oral prednisolone, hydroxychloroquine, cyclosporin, and belimumab and her response was clinically and biochemically favourable. Although KFD is prevalent in Asian populations, it may affect all races. Early diagnosis of KFD is difficult, particularly when simultaneously diagnosed with SLE, but crucial to preventing inappropriate therapy. Clinicians need to know about this rare disease, especially when patients present with fever and swollen lymph nodes, due to a risk of misdiagnosis with tuberculosis or lymphoma, as these are more often thought to be the cause of such symptoms.

The co-occurrence of Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease and systemic lupus erythematosus: a case report

BACKGROUND

Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease is an uncommon systemic disease that mostly affects young women. Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease typically manifests as necrotizing lymphadenopathy, which frequently follows by a fever; however, Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease occurs rarely in extranodal regions. One of the most important accompaniments of Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease is its connection with autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus. This case presents a simultaneous occurrence of Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease with liver involvement and systemic lupus erythematosus in a young female patient.

CASE PRESENTATION

We present a rare case of a 20-year-old white woman who presented with fever, joint pains, myalgia, and shortness of breath. Initial hospitalization and treatment for fever of unknown origin did not yield improvement. Physical examination revealed cervical and supraclavicular lymphadenopathy, and laboratory investigations showed abnormal blood counts, elevated inflammatory markers, and positive autoimmune serologies. Imaging studies revealed bilateral pleural effusion and liver lesions. Lymph node biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease, and liver biopsy showed extranodal involvement. The patient was diagnosed with Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease-associated systemic lupus erythematosus and treated with hydroxychloroquine and corticosteroids. The patient showed gradual resolution of symptoms and lymphadenopathy with treatment.

CONCLUSION

Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease is a rare systemic condition primarily impacting young females. It is characterized by necrotizing lymphadenopathy, often accompanied by fever. Although Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease is predominantly seen in the lymph nodes, occurrences in non-nodal areas are infrequent. When diagnosing Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease, it is essential to screen patients for systemic lupus erythematosus. In this particular case, we observed liver involvement along with the presence of both Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease and systemic lupus erythematosus.

Kikuchi-Fujimoto Disease: A Case of Febrile Cervical Lymphadenopathy With Hematological Abnormalities

Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease (KFD), or histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis, is a benign but rare disorder associated with febrile cervical lymphadenopathy in young adults. Here, we discuss a case of a young female patient presenting with left tender cervical lymphadenopathy that progressed bilaterally with a fever of unknown origin. Laboratory parameters showed persistent leukopenia, especially neutropenia, which fluctuated with the degree of symptom severity. Two months were taken to confirm the diagnosis of KFD based on the histological interpretation of the lymph node biopsy. Supportive management with analgesics and paracetamol formed the main treatment. This case highlights the challenges and importance of diagnosing KFD to exclude other serious conditions such as lymphoma, tuberculosis, or lupus lymphadenitis that share similar clinical manifestations as KFD.

Kikuchi-Fujimoto Disease With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Systemic Sclerosis Overlap: A Unique Clinical Presentation

Kikuchi-Fujimoto Disease (KFD), or histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis (HNL), is a rare self-limiting disorder presenting with fever and swollen lymph nodes. It is characterized by the focal proliferation of reticular cells, the presence of nuclear debris, and histiocytes. In advanced cases, it can present with hepato-splenomegaly and generalized lymphadenopathy. Historically, it has been associated with viral infections, as it frequently was found to be associated with upper respiratory symptoms. Alternative explanations include the immune response of T-cells leading to alteration in CD8-positive T-cell-mediated cell apoptosis. It is also speculated that KFD can be associated with rheumatological autoimmune diseases. We present a case of a 21-year-old African American female with a known diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)-systemic sclerosis (SS) overlap presented with febrile lymphadenopathy and was diagnosed to have HNL on histological exam of lymph node biopsy.

Characterization of Kikuchi-Fujimoto Disease in Children and Risk Factors Associated with Its Course

OBJECTIVE

To outline the characteristics of Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease (KFD) in children and analyze factors associated with severe and recurring courses.

METHODS

Electronic medical records of children histopathologically diagnosed with KFD at Seoul National University Bundang Hospital from March 2015 to April 2021 were retrospectively reviewed.

RESULTS

A total of 114 cases (62 males) were identified. The mean patient age was 12.0 ± 3.5 years. Most patients came to medical attention with cervical lymph node enlargement (97.4%) and fever (85%); 62% had a high-grade fever (≥39°C). Prolonged fever (≥14 days) was seen in 44.3% and was associated with a high-grade fever (P = .004). Splenomegaly, oral ulcer, or rash was present in 10.5%, 9.6%, and 15.8%, respectively. Laboratory findings showed leukopenia, anemia, and thrombocytopenia in 74.1%, 49%, and 24%, respectively. Sixty percent of cases had a self-limited course. Antibiotics were initially prescribed in 20%. A corticosteroid was prescribed in 40% of patients and was associated with oral ulcer (P = .045) and anemia (P = .025). Twelve patients (10.5%) had a recurrence with a median interval of 19 months. No risk factor for recurrence was identified in multivariable analysis. Clinical characteristics of KFD were similar between our current and previous studies. However, antibiotics use decreased (P < .001); nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs use increased (P < .001), and, although statistically not significant, corticosteroid treatment also increased.

CONCLUSIONS

Over a span of 18 years, the clinical characteristics of KFD did not change. Patients presenting with high-grade fever, oral ulcer, or anemia may benefit from corticosteroid intervention. All patients should be monitored for recurrence.

Kikuchi Fujimoto Lymphadenitis: A Rare Association With COVID-19 Vaccination

Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease (KFD), also known as histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis, is an uncommon cause of protracted cervical lymphadenopathy in both children and adults. Although the majority of cases have been documented in Asia, this disease has been characterized globally since it was first identified in Japan in 1972. KFD's etiology is not entirely understood, although various theories have been postulated. Usually benign, Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease resolves within six months. KFD must be distinguished from other causes of chronic lymphadenopathy, such as lymphoma, inflammatory illnesses, autoimmune conditions, viral lymphadenopathy, and also from tuberculosis, especially in India, where it is still endemic. Here, we present the case report of a healthcare worker with a known case of hypothyroidism and autoimmune skin disorder who presented with prolonged fever, joint pain, and generalized lymphadenopathy post-COVID vaccination and was diagnosed as having KFD on biopsy, which can be associated with a very unusual presentation of this disease.

Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease: A comprehensive review

Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease, a rare form of necrotizing lymphadenitis, is an uncommon, benign, self-limiting disorder of obscure etiology. It affects mostly young adults of both genders. Clinically, it presents with fever and lymphadenopathy of a firm to rubbery consistency frequently involving cervical lymph nodes while weight loss, splenomegaly, leucopenia, and elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate feature in severely affected patients. Cutaneous involvement occurs in about 30%-40% of cases as facial erythema and nonspecific erythematous papules, plaques, acneiform or morbilliform lesions of great histologic heterogeneity. Both Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease and systemic lupus erythematosus share an obscure and complex relationship as systemic lupus erythematosus may occasionally precede, develop subsequently, or sometimes be associated concurrently with Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease. It is often mistaken for non-Hodgkin lymphoma while lupus lymphadenitis, cat-scratch disease, Sweet's syndrome, Still's disease, drug eruptions, infectious mononucleosis, and viral or tubercular lymphadenitis are other common differentials. Fine needle aspiration cytology mostly has features of nonspecific reactive lymphadenitis and immunohistochemistry studies usually show variable features of uncertain diagnostic value. Since its diagnosis is exclusively from histopathology, it needs to be evaluated more carefully; an early lymph node biopsy will obviate the need for unnecessary investigations and therapeutic trials. Its treatment with systemic corticosteroids, hydroxychloroquine, or antimicrobial agents mostly remains empirical. The article reviews clinicoepidemiological, diagnostic, and management aspects of KFD from the perspective of practicing clinicians.

A homozygous loss-of-function C1S mutation is associated with Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease

BACKGROUND

Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease (KFD) is a self-limited inflammatory disease of unknown pathogenesis. Familial cases have been described and defects in classical complement components C1q and C4 have been identified in some patients.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We describe genetic and immune investigations of a 16 years old Omani male, a product of consanguineous marriage, who presented with typical clinical and histological features of KFD.

RESULTS

We identified a novel homozygous single base deletion in C1S (c.330del; p. Phe110LeufsTer23) resulting in a defect in the classical complement pathway. The patient was negative for all serological markers of SLE. In contrast, two female siblings (also homozygous for the C1S mutation), one has autoimmune thyroid disease (Hashimoto thyroiditis) and a positive ANA and the other sibling has serology consistent with SLE.

CONCLUSION

We report the first association between C1s deficiency and KFD.

Mortal Complication of Kikuchi–Fujimoto Disease; Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding, Case Presantation and literature review

In this report, we inform you that a patient with CFD, known as a benign disease, died due to massive lower GI bleeding. Although KFD is a benign disease, we have seen in this case that it can result in death. A 28-year-old Turkish male patient was brought to the hospital with complaints of high fever, fatigue, sweating and difficulty breathing. A cervical examination revealed that the patient had lymphadenopathy. The patient did not have any cutaneous lesions. Genital examination revealed melena. A normal cranial and abdomen, thorax CT was obtained. The patient was intubated because of respiratory failure and unstable hemodynamics. The patient developed pancytopenia as a result of blood tests. The patient died due to massive lower gastrointestinal bleeding.

Kikuchi-Fujimoto-like lymphadenopathy following COVID-19 vaccine: diagnosis and management

A woman in her mid 40s presented for breast imaging after 1 week of painful and enlarged right axillary lymphadenopathy. She denied history of fever, weight loss, night sweats fatigue, cat scratch or other trauma. She received the second dose of Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine 3 months previously on the contralateral arm. A mammogram demonstrated a single, asymmetric, large and dense right axillary lymph node. Ultrasound confirmed a 2.5 cm lymph node with cortical thickening of 0.6 cm. Ultrasound-guided core biopsy showed necrotising lymphadenitis with associated aggregates of histiocytes and plasmacytoid dendritic cells. Potential causes of necrotising adenitis including Bartonella, tuberculosis, Epstein-Barr Virus, herpes simplex virus, systemic lupus erythematosus and lymphoma were excluded. In the absence of any identifiable infectious or autoimmune causes, and given the temporal relatedness with vaccine administration, it was determined that the Kikuchi-Fujimoto-like necrotising lymphadenitis was likely secondary to the COVID-19 vaccine. To date, there has been no casual association made between the COVID-19 vaccine and KFD necrotising lymphadenitis.

Kikuchi–Fujimoto disease: literature review and report of four cases

Kikuchi–Fujimoto disease, or necrotizing histiocytic lymphadenitis, is one of the rare causes of benign lymphadeno-pathy. The diagnosis is based on histological and immunohistochemical analysis of the lymph node biopsy. The article presents four clinical cases of Kikuchi–Fujimoto disease. According to the results of the primary analysis of lymph node tissue three patients were misdiagnosed with lymphoma. due to the unusual for lymphoid malignancy course the primary material was reviewed. The diagnosis of Kikuchi–Fujimoto disease was put. In three patients the disease has a re-current course. during the observation period, the course of the disease in all the presented patients is benign with normal quality of life.

Comparison of Clinical Characteristics and Risk Factors for Recurrence of Kikuchi-Fujimoto Disease Between Children and Adult

Purpose

Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease (KFD) is a rare, benign, and self-limited disease, characterized by cervical lymphadenopathy and fever. Herein, we analyzed the differences in its clinical manifestations and risk factors for recurrence between children and adults.

Patients and Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients diagnosed with KFD at a tertiary referral hospital between 2005 and 2019. Patients were divided into two groups based on their age: children (<19 years) and adults (≥19 years).

Results

During the 14-year study period, 127 patients were diagnosed with KFD. Among these, 34 (26.8%) were children and 93 (73.2%) were adults. The fever duration was longer and the frequency of myalgia was higher in adults than in children; however, no other significant symptomatic differences were noted between the two groups. Lymph node evaluation was mainly performed using ultrasound in children (61.8%) and computed tomography in adults (78.5%). Moreover, the frequency of antibiotic use was higher in children than in adults (76.5% vs 54.8%, P = 0.027). In adults, multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed anti-nuclear antibody (ANA) positivity (titer ≥1:80) as a risk factor for recurrence (odds ratio: 7.813; 95% confidence interval = 1.818-33.333; P = 0.006).

Conclusion

The clinical features of KFD in children and adults were similar; however, the preferred imaging study and frequency of antibiotic use differed significantly between the two groups. Furthermore, in adults, ANA positivity was associated with KFD recurrence. Thus, patients with KFD who present with ANA positivity at diagnosis will benefit from a regular follow-up for monitoring KFD recurrence.

Kikuchi Disease in Children: Case Report and Review of the Literature

BACKGROUND

Kikuchi disease (KD) is a rare and generally benign condition of uncertain etiology that presents with nonspecific symptoms including fever and cervical lymphadenopathy. Clinical presentations can vary. Here, we present an atypical case of KD in a 10-year-old girl, as well as an updated literature review of the clinical presentation, laboratory features and management of KD in children.

METHODS

Studies (published up until February 2020) were identified through searches of PubMed using the following search items: Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease or histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis or Kikuchi disease. Our primary search resulted in 1117 publications. A total of 34 publications with a total of 670 patients were included in the final analysis.

RESULTS

All children present with lymphadenopathy. Almost all (96.3%) have cervical lymphadenopathy. Fever is recorded in the majority of children (77.1%). Analysis of laboratory features found that the majority of children have leukopenia (56.0%) and a raised erythrocyte sedimentation rate (56.0%). Over 30% have a raised C-reactive protein and anemia. Other features such as leukocytosis, thrombocytopenia and antinuclear antibodies positivity are less common. KD is mostly self-limiting, but steroids, hydroxychloroquine and intravenous immunoglobulin are used in protracted courses. Their efficacy has yet to be established in clinical trials.

CONCLUSIONS

The presentation of KD is variable, and there is no specific set of symptoms or laboratory features that reliably establishes the diagnosis. Thus, histopathology is crucial. Definitive evaluation and establishment of effective treatments will require future prospective research studies for a more comprehensive description of the clinical course and effects of treatment. Given the rarity of the disease, this will have to be performed in collaborative consortia.

Analysis of the clinical manifestations and 18F-FDG PET-CT findings in 40 patients with histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis

Histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis (HNL) is a rare, benign, and self-limiting inflammatory disease that mainly involves the lymph nodes. There is a lack of large sample studies concerning the clinical manifestations and imaging features of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (18F-FDG PET/CT) of HNL.The clinical symptoms, laboratory examination results, 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging features, and treatment outcome were investigated in this retrospective study.A total of 40 HNL patients were recruited. The onset age was between 14 and 65 years, with a median of 25 years. The white blood cell count was 3.9 (2.9, 7.1) × 109/L, C-reactive protein level was 20.2 (6.6, 63.8) mg/L, erythrocyte sedimentation rate was 29.0 (18.0,45.0) mm/h, and ferritin was 616.5 (205.6, 2118.1) ng/mL. An abnormal liver function was observed in 23 patients. 18F-FDG PET-CT showed that an abnormal lymph node metabolism was observed in 38 patients, among which the highest 18F-FDG maximal standard uptake value (SUVmax) of the lymph nodes ranged between 3.4 and 41.9; the nodes were mainly distributed in the neck and axilla regions. Meanwhile, a total of 2502 lymph nodes (721 lymph nodes with a short axis greater than 10 mm) were found in the 38 patients, including 1837 lymph nodes with an 18F-FDG SUVmax ≥ 2.5. The 18F-FDG SUVmax of the spleen ranged from 2.5 to 9.2 in 20 patients, while that of central and peripheral bone marrow ranged from 2.7 to 36.0 in 30 patients. After follow-up for an average period of 1 month, the symptoms improved after prednisone treatment.HNL often occurs in adolescents. Scanning with 18F-FDG PET/CT showed that most patients had multiple involved lymph nodes that were hypermetabolic, and only few lymph nodes are enlarged. Besides, the spleen or central and peripheral bone marrow could sometimes be hypermetabolic. Glucocorticoid treatment for the HNL patients is effective.

Kikuchi-Fujimoto Disease Triggered by Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Mycoplasma pneumoniae Infection-A Report of a Case and a Review of the Literature

ABSTRACT

Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease (KFD) is a necrotizing histiocytic lymphadenitis that was described for the first time in 1972 in Japan. Its etiology is still not fully understood. It has been reported in association with many different agents, diseases, and triggering factors without any conclusive result. To the best of our knowledge, we report for the first time a case of KFD with systemic lupus erythematosus in a child in association with a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-positive throat swab for Mycoplasma pneumoniae. Although difficult to prove, the acute M. pneumoniae infection might have served as a triggering event for the development of KFD in our case. We encourage further studies to investigate a potential relationship between KFD and M. pneumoniae, which should also use PCR-based testing for this pathogen in patients with KFD.

Kikuchi-Fujimoto Disease With Encephalopathy in Children: Case Reports and Literature Review

Background: Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease (KFD) is a benign and self-limiting disease characterized by regional lymphadenitis and low-grade fever. Encephalopathy may present in children with KFD. We present three cases of KFD with encephalopathy in children and a literature review. Methods: Literature published between 2010 and 2020 was reviewed to understand the clinical features, laboratory findings, and treatments for encephalopathy occurring in children with KFD. Results: The interval between KFD and onset of neurological symptoms was 10 days to 3 months. Laboratory results were normal, except for high protein levels in cerebrospinal fluid findings. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings include hyperintense T2 and FLAIR signal in the supratentorial white matter, deep gray matter, brain stem, cerebellum, temporal lobes, pons, and basal ganglia. Glucocorticoids and immunoglobulin could be effective for treating KFD with encephalopathy. Conclusion: The early clinical manifestations of KFD with encephalopathy in children lack specificity, and the diagnosis is mainly based on CSF analysis and brain MRI findings. Early and timely immunomodulatory therapy is effective and can improve the prognosis of patients with KFD with encephalopathy.

Development of Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease after a cervical lymph node metastasis of mucoepidermoid carcinoma: a case report

Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease (KFD) was first reported by Kikuchi and Fujimoto in 1972 as a rare disease with lymphadenitis of unknown etiology. KFD is characterized by the main symptoms of fever and enlarged cervical lymph nodes (LNs), which are similar to the features of other LN-associated diseases. Therefore, it is difficult to diagnose this condition. We report the case of a 24-year-old woman who presented with KFD after surgery to treat a mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the palate and dissection of the left neck. The patient presented with a fever and right cervical lymphadenopathy when she visited our department for a regular follow-up related to the mucoepidermoid carcinoma. The results of computed tomography and ultrasonography evaluations led to a clinical diagnosis of lymph node metastasis, and a right neck dissection was performed. However, the pathological tissue analysis did not suggest malignancy but showed necrosis and various cellular infiltrates. We made a diagnosis of KFD from these clinical and pathological features. KFD may be misdiagnosed as a LN-associated disease such as metastasis. Clinically, KFD should be considered in patients with head and neck cancer who present with cervical lymphadenopathy.

A familial case of Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease in dizygotic twins

BACKGROUND

Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease (KFD) or necrotizing histiocytic lymphadenitis, was described separately by both Kikuchi and Fujimoto in Japan in the early 1970's. Despite its rarity in the pediatric population, it is an important differential in persistent lymphadenopathy. Familial cases of KFD in the literature are rare. Here we describe the first reported case of KFD in non-identical twin sisters.

CASE PRESENTATION

Twin 1 presented with a 3-week history of worsening right-sided cervical lymphadenopathy, daily fevers, significant lethargy, weight loss and arthralgia of her knees and ankles at the age of 12 years in 2015. She had had an unremarkable medical history. A biopsy of her lymph nodes showed histiocytic necrosis consistent with KFD. Twin 2 presented with a three-week history of lethargy, fatigue, weight loss and left-sided posterior cervical chain lymphadenopathy at 16 years of age in 2018. She had a history of frequently relapsing nephrotic syndrome and celiac disease. A biopsy of her lymph nodes was undertaken and showed histiocytic necrosis consistent with KFD.

CONCLUSIONS

KFD is a rare but self-limiting pathological process of necrotizing histiocytic lymphadenitis. Although further research is needed, there is an increasing amount of evidence which suggests a multifactorial pathological basis of disease. The two cases we document here are the first reported cases of familial KFD in dizygotic HLA-identical twins which reinforces the likely HLA-linkage in the etiology of KFD.

Case Report: Kikuchi-Fujimoto Disease: A case of supraclavicular lymphadenopathy

Kikuchi-Fujimoto Disease (KFD), also known as histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis, is a rare cause of cervical lymphadenopathy. Patients usually present with localized lymphadenopathy, fever and fatigue. Because of the poorly understood etiology, it can be mistaken for an infectious disease or even malignance. Here we discuss a case of KFD that initially presented with left sided cervical lymphadenopathy that later progressed to left supraclavicular lymph nodes. Due to its characteristic overlap with other disorders like tuberculous lymphadenitis and lymphoma, KFD remains an arduous diagnosis for physicians. Therefore, one should be made aware of symptoms that can lead to misdiagnosis in patients.

Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease in children: two case reports and a review of the literature

BACKGROUND

Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease is a rare, idiopathic and generally self-limiting cause of lymphadenitis of unknow etiology with a low recurrence rate. The typical clinical signs are cervical lymphadenopathy, fever, and symptoms of respiratory infection, and less frequently chills, night sweats, arthralgia, rash, and weight loss.

CASE PRESENTATION

Here we describe two case reports of Kikuchi Fujimoto disease presenting in Milan within the space of a few months. The first involved the recurrence of KFD in a young boy from Sri Lanka; the second was a rare case of severe KFD complicated by HLH.

CONCLUSIONS

Pediatricians must consider KFD in the differential diagnosis of fever of unknown origin in children, even in western countries. Although rare, recurrence and severe complications are possible. Where symptoms suggest KFD, a systematic diagnostic approach is key. Since no guidelines on the management of KFD are available, further studies should be conducted to investigate the therapeutic options and long term outcome in children.

Case Report: Kikuchi: The great mimicker

Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease is a form of a benign necrotizing lymphadenitis which is most commonly misdiagnosed as tuberculosis and or lymphoma, usually more common among young adults in Asia. It is a benign disease but can mimic a lot of other disease processes spanning infectious, rheumatologic and even hematologic malignancies. Our patient presented with prolonged fever and lymphadenopathy. Initial considerations were lymphoma and a nonspecific viral infection. A CT scan showed diffuse cervical lymphadenopathy with lacrimal gland involvement. An excisional lymph node biopsy was done which revealed Kikuchi disease. Patient was given steroids with immediate response with defervescence. Kikuchi is a disease with many mimics and a complete workup is needed to exclude serious disease like malignancy.

A Challenging Case of Kikuchi-Fujimoto Disease Associated with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Review of the Literature

Kikuchi–Fujimoto disease (KFD) or histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis is a rare disease that is frequently underdiagnosed due to clinical features that are similar to those of non-Hodgkin lymphomas, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), or infectious reactive lymphadenopathy. An excisional biopsy is required. We report a young Caucasian female diagnosed with KFD with skin lesions, complicating with SLE. The clinical course, laboratory, and CT findings are described, as are histopathologic features, for a better recognition of this rare disorder in clinical practice.

[Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease mimicking malignant lymphoma in adolescents]

Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease, also known as histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis, is a rare cause of lymphadenopathy in children. This benign disease can mimic lymphoma and misleads doctors. It was first described in Asia, where it occurred especially in young women. Recent publications show that it can also affect teenagers and young adults in Caucasian populations. The pathophysiology remains unknown. Three hypotheses have been raised for this disease: the role of viruses (in particular HHV-8), genetic predisposition (two alleles in HLA class II genes were found more frequently in patients with Kikuchi disease), and an autoimmune cause because of the correlation with lupus erythematosus. Few cases have been reported in Europe so far. In this article, we report three cases of Kikuchi disease observed in less than 2 months in a single hospital in France. All three patients were teenagers who presented with lymphadenopathy, either isolated or combined with fever, weakness, and weight loss. In all of them, the hypermetabolic activity of the lymph node on the PET scanner misled us to suspect lymphoma. The diagnosis of Kikuchi disease was finally made, for all patients, after 2 weeks in the hospital based on lymph node biopsy. Based on this report, we highlight that early biopsy in presence of lymphadenopathy can avoid unnecessary extensive investigations. Moreover, in this rare disease, it is very surprising to come across three cases that are not family-related, in such a short period of time. This strengthens the hypothesis of the possible implication of an environmental factor in the pathophysiology of Kikuchi disease.

Simultaneous Acquired Self-limited Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis and Kikuchi Necrotizing Lymphadenitis in a 16-Year-Old Teenage Girl: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to increase education and awareness among pediatric practitioners of possibility of simultaneous hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis and Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease/Kikuchi disease occurring in the pediatric population and the diagnostic dilemma it can present. We describe a case presentation of acquired and self-limited simultaneous hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis and Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease in a 16-year-old in the United States who presented with fevers, night sweats, and joint pain, along with tiredness and decreased appetite along with pancytopenia and elevated lactate dehydrogenase. To the best of our knowledge, simultaneous hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis and Kikuchi-Fujimoto in the pediatric population has not been described in North America but remains fairly common in Asia. The literature on both diseases and their simultaneous occurrence is comprehensively reviewed.

METHODS

This was a case report and review of the literature.

RESULTS

The patient was diagnosed with both hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis and Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease based on bone marrow aspiration/biopsy and axillary node biopsy, respectively. Both illnesses resolved completely.

CONCLUSIONS

Benign causes of pancytopenia and elevated lactate dehydrogenase exist, but they may not be always straightforward diagnostically. Bone marrow aspiration and lymph node biopsy may be helpful in ascertaining the diagnosis. Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis and Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease may represent a continuum of illness.

Pathogenesis, diagnosis, and management of Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease

BACKGROUND

Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease (KFD) is a rare lymphohistiocytic disorder with an unknown etiopathogenesis. This disease is misdiagnosed as malignant lymphoma in up to one-third of cases and is associated with the development of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

METHODS

The medical literature between the years 1972 and 2014 was searched for KFD, and the data were collected and analyzed regarding the epidemiology, clinical presentations, diagnosis, management, and suggested diagnostic and treatment algorithms.

RESULTS

Although KFD has been reported in other ethnic groups and geographical areas, it is more frequently diagnosed in young women of Asian descent. Patients with the disease typically present with rapidly evolving tender cervical lymphadenopathy, night sweats, fevers, and headache. Diagnosis is based on histopathological examination. Excisional lymph node biopsy is essential for a correct diagnosis. Apoptotic coagulation necrosis with karyorrhectic debris and the proliferation of histiocytes, plasmacytoid dendritic cells, and CD8(+) T cells in the absence of neutrophils are characteristic cytomorphology features. Interface dermatitis at the onset of KFD may be a marker for the subsequent evolution of SLE. The natural course of the disease is typically benign. Short courses of steroids, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or hydroxychloroquine can be administered to patients with more severe symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

Although KFD was described more than 40 years ago, the etiology of this disease remains unsolved. Infectious or autoimmune processes were proposed but have not been definitively confirmed. Clinical presentation with systemic B symptoms and adenopathy may lead to an erroneous diagnosis of malignant lymphoma. The introduction of modern methods into hematopathology, including immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry, and molecular clonality studies, has decreased the probability of misdiagnosis. Until reliable prognostic markers are available, patients with KFD should have continued long-term follow-up care due to their increased risk of SLE.

Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease: retrospective study of 91 cases and review of the literature

Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease (KFD) is a rare cause of lymphadenopathy, most often cervical. It has been mainly described in Asia. There are few data available on this disease in Europe. We conducted this retrospective, observational, multicenter study to describe KFD in France and to determine the characteristics of severe forms of the disease and forms associated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). We included 91 cases of KFD, diagnosed between January 1989 and January 2011 in 13 French hospital centers (median age, 30 ± 10.4 yr; 77% female). The ethnic origins of the patients were European (33%), Afro-Caribbean (32%), North African (15.4%), and Asian (13%). Eighteen patients had a history of systemic disease, including 11 with SLE. Lymph node involvement was cervical (90%), often in the context of polyadenopathy (52%), and it was associated with hepatomegaly and splenomegaly in 14.8% of cases. Deeper sites of involvement were noted in 18% of cases. Constitutional signs consisted mainly of fever (67%), asthenia (74.4%), and weight loss (51.2%). Other manifestations included skin rash (32.9%), arthromyalgia (34.1%), 2 cases of aseptic meningitis, and 3 cases of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis. Biological signs included lymphocytopenia (63.8%) and increase of acute phase reactants (56.4%). Antinuclear antibodies (ANAs) and anti-DNA antibodies were present in 45.2% and 18% of the patients sampled, respectively. Concomitant viral infection was detected in 8 patients (8.8%). Systemic corticosteroids were prescribed in 32% of cases, hydroxychloroquine in 17.6%, and intravenous immunoglobulin in 3 patients. The disease course was always favorable. Recurrence was observed in 21% of cases. In the 33 patients with ANA at diagnosis, SLE was known in 11 patients, diagnosed concomitantly in 10 cases and in the year following diagnosis in 2 cases; 6 patients did not have SLE, and 4 patients were lost to follow-up (median follow-up, 19 mo; range, 3-39 mo). The presence of weight loss, arthralgia, skin lesions, and ANA was associated with the development of SLE (p < 0.05). Male sex and lymphopenia were associated with severe forms of KFD (p < 0.05). KFD can occur in all populations, irrespective of ethnic origin. Deep forms are common. An association with SLE should be investigated. A prospective study is required to determine the risk factors for the development of SLE.

Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease: retrospective study of 91 cases and review of the literature

Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease (KFD) is a rare cause of lymphadenopathy, most often cervical. It has been mainly described in Asia. There are few data available on this disease in Europe. We conducted this retrospective, observational, multicenter study to describe KFD in France and to determine the characteristics of severe forms of the disease and forms associated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). We included 91 cases of KFD, diagnosed between January 1989 and January 2011 in 13 French hospital centers (median age, 30 ± 10.4 yr; 77% female). The ethnic origins of the patients were European (33%), Afro-Caribbean (32%), North African (15.4%), and Asian (13%). Eighteen patients had a history of systemic disease, including 11 with SLE. Lymph node involvement was cervical (90%), often in the context of polyadenopathy (52%), and it was associated with hepatomegaly and splenomegaly in 14.8% of cases. Deeper sites of involvement were noted in 18% of cases. Constitutional signs consisted mainly of fever (67%), asthenia (74.4%), and weight loss (51.2%). Other manifestations included skin rash (32.9%), arthromyalgia (34.1%), 2 cases of aseptic meningitis, and 3 cases of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis. Biological signs included lymphocytopenia (63.8%) and increase of acute phase reactants (56.4%). Antinuclear antibodies (ANAs) and anti-DNA antibodies were present in 45.2% and 18% of the patients sampled, respectively. Concomitant viral infection was detected in 8 patients (8.8%). Systemic corticosteroids were prescribed in 32% of cases, hydroxychloroquine in 17.6%, and intravenous immunoglobulin in 3 patients. The disease course was always favorable. Recurrence was observed in 21% of cases. In the 33 patients with ANA at diagnosis, SLE was known in 11 patients, diagnosed concomitantly in 10 cases and in the year following diagnosis in 2 cases; 6 patients did not have SLE, and 4 patients were lost to follow-up (median follow-up, 19 mo; range, 3-39 mo). The presence of weight loss, arthralgia, skin lesions, and ANA was associated with the development of SLE (p < 0.05). Male sex and lymphopenia were associated with severe forms of KFD (p < 0.05). KFD can occur in all populations, irrespective of ethnic origin. Deep forms are common. An association with SLE should be investigated. A prospective study is required to determine the risk factors for the development of SLE.

Causative agents of Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease (histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis): a meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease (KFD) is a self-limiting disorder characterized by histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis in the cervical lymph nodes of young women. Although an infectious etiology has been postulated, a definitive causative agent has not been identified. The few dozens of published studies are limited by small sample size and poorly structured study designs. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the association of each infectious agent to KFD that has been studied.

METHODS

We performed metaanalysis using major electronic database (MEDLINE (PubMed), Cochrane library, Embase, Web of Science, NML gateway, LILACS, and Google Scholar). Cross-sectional studies on the positivity of each agent in clinicopathologically diagnosed KFD and normal controls by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or in situ hybridization (ISH) were carefully retrieved. The included infectious agents were herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 1, 2, varicella-zoster virus, cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), human herpes virus (HHV) 6, 7, 8, parvovirus B19, human papilloma virus, hepatitis B virus, human T-lymphotropic virus 1, Brucella, and Bartonella henselae.

RESULTS

After an exclusion process of 2491 studies, five, two, four, two, two, and three studies on EBV-PCR, EBV-ISH, HHV6-PCR, HHV8-PCR, parvovirus B19-PCR and HHV7-PCR, respectively, were suitable for quantitative meta-analysis.

CONCLUSION

The most suspected pathogen, EBV was not associated to KFD than normal controls (odds ratio=0.28, p=0.005), while the HHV8 positivity was more likely to be associated (odds ratio=8.24, p=0.003) although it still needs further verification. None of other viruses was associated to KFD although the results are limited by small sample size. More studies with large sample size and strict sample selection criteria are necessary in future.

Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease: report of 4 cases and review of the literature

INTRODUCTION

Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease or histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis is a benign disease of unknown origin predominantly affecting young women and presenting in the form of cervical lymphadenopathy and/or prolonged fever.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The authors report 4 cases of Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease diagnosed in the Internal Medicine Department of Ibn Sina university hospital in Rabat between 2009 and 2010.

RESULTS

These 4 women with a mean age of 27±8.6years [16-37] were admitted with febrile syndrome and cervical lymphadenopathy. The diagnosis was based on histological examination of a lymph node biopsy. The disease was associated with systemic lupus erythematosus in one case and actinomycosis in another case. A favourable course was observed in response to corticosteroid therapy in two patients, antibiotic therapy in one patient and antipyretic treatment alone in the fourth patient.

CONCLUSION

In the light of these four cases, the authors discuss the diagnostic difficulties, the modalities of treatment of Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease and its clinical course.

Comparison of clinical features and EBV expression in histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis of children and adults

OBJECTIVE

Histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis (HNL) is a self-limiting disease characterized by cervical lymphadenopathy and fever. Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) has been implicated as a cause of HNL in some reports but not in others. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical features and laboratory findings in children and adults with HNL and to evaluate the relationship between EBV infection and HNL.

METHODS

The records of patients diagnosed with biopsy-confirmed HNL at Gyeongsang National University Hospital from May 2009 to December 2012 were retrospectively reviewed. Clinical features, laboratory data (blood count, biochemistry, and serology), and computed tomography findings were collected. Immunohistochemistry for CD4, CD8, CD68, and myeloperoxidase (MPO), and in situ hybridization for EBV RNA were performed on archived lymph node biopsies from pediatric and adult patients.

RESULTS

A total of 16 children and 31 adults were diagnosed with HNL. Fever was present in 87.5% of children and 25.8% of adults (P<0.0001). Fever duration was longer for children (mean, 5.06 days) than for adults (mean, 0.63 days; P=0.008). Necrosis of the involved lymph nodes was observed in eight (50%) children and six (19.4%) adults (P=0.045). HNL recurred in five (31.35%) children and one (3.2%) adult (P=0.015). All had detectable CD4, CD8, CD68, and MPO immunoreactivity. EBV reactivity was higher in children (26.7%) than in adults (6.7%) without statistical support.

CONCLUSIONS

There is more variability in the clinical presentation and laboratory findings in children with HNL than in adults. In particular, the degree and duration of fever was more severe in children than in adults, and necrosis of lymph nodes was more frequent in children than in adults. There was no definitive correlation between EBV reactivity and NHL. Further study of the relationship between EBV and HNL is needed with a larger number of patients.

Kikuchi-Fujimoto Disease Associated with Symptomatic CD4 Lymphocytopenia

Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease is a rare benign condition of necrotising histiocytic lymphadenitis with unknown aetiology. We describe here a 30-year-old African American female who presented with fever, generalized rash, cervical lymphadenopathy, and oral candidiasis and was found to have Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease on lymph node biopsy with low CD4 count. The initial presentation was concerning for acute retroviral infection. Her HIV serology and HIV RNA PCR were negative however she had low CD4 count with reversal of CD4/CD8 ratio. Although low CD4 count has been associated with autoimmune disease, it has not been described with Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease. We report the first case of Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease associated with symptomatic CD4 lymphocytopenia.

Kikuchi-fujimoto disease in the United States: three case reports and review of the literature [corrected]

Kikuchi-Fujimoto Disease (KFD), also known as histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis [corrected], is a benign, self-limiting disease that manifests primarily as cervical lymphadenopathy but may include low-grade fever, headache, and fatigue. There is a higher incidence of KFD in women aged 20-35 years and in Asian populations. A PubMed search revealed 590 articles that described KFD. Of these, 22 cases have been fully described in the United States. Ten of the 22 (45%) patients were male and 12 (55%) were female, with 20% Caucasian, 20% Asian American, and the remaining 60% of other ethnic backgrounds. In this study, we describe an additional 3 cases of KFD and discuss the diagnosis, pathology, and management of KFD.

Kikuchi disease in Connecticut

Kikuchi disease is a self-limited disorder of unknown etiology characterized by focal painful lymphadenitis, fever, and weight loss that can be mistaken for malignancy. Diagnosis is established by node biopsy. Kikuchi disease is endemic in Asia; 10 cases have been reported in the US to date. We report 3 cases and review other US cases.

18F-FDG PET/CT findings in patients with Kikuchi disease

PURPOSE

Kikuchi disease (KD) is a benign and self-limited syndrome characterized by cervical lymphadenopathy. This study evaluated 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (FDG PET/CT) findings in patients with KD and analyzed their imaging features.

PATIENTS, MATERIAL, METHODS

We evaluated the FDG PET/CT findings of 22 patients (14 men, 8 women) with KD, ranging in age from 9 to 73 years. All patients had been diagnosed based on the pathological findings of biopsy. We examined the locations, metabolic activity and size of hypermetabolic lymph nodes (LNs) on FDG PET/CT imaging with medical history including laboratory results.

RESULTS

Among the 22 patients, we identified 619 hypermetabolic LNs which had maximum standard uptake value (SUVmax) above 3.0. The 16 patients were studied with FDG PET/CT to identify the cause of fever, another 5 patients for their neck masses, and the remaining patient for his left inguinal mass. Hypermetabolic LNs were noted in neck (18 bilaterally, 2 right, 1 left) of 21 patients, axilla of 10, mediastinum of 9, abdomen of 17, pelvis of 6, and inguinal area of 3. The SUVmax of FDG uptake in affected LNs by patient base analysis were 6.2-29.4. Of the 619 hypermetabolic LNs identified, 440 LNs (71.1%) were less than 10 mm in their short axis determined by CT, and were occasionally aggregated. No patient showed solid organ hypermetabolic lesion in FDG PET/CT.

CONCLUSION

Kikuchi disease could present multiple hypermetabolic LNs in body on FDG PET/CT. Based on the physical findings, consideration of the generalized distribution of the relatively small-sized hypermetabolic LNs, FDG PET/CT may be useful as a diagnostic tool in cases of Kikuchi disease.

Kikuchi-Fujimoto lymphadenitis: role of parvovirus B-19, Epstein-Barr virus, human herpesvirus 6, and human herpesvirus 8

Kikuchi-Fujimoto lymphadenitis is a self-limited disorder that typically presents in young females as painless cervical lymphadenopathy with fever, anemia, and leukopenia. The clinical manifestations and pathologic findings suggest a viral etiology, yet specific etiologic agents remain unknown. Although there are studies reporting positive associations between Kikuchi-Fujimoto lymphadenitis and parvovirus B19 and herpesviruses, other studies have failed to find an association with these viruses. To our knowledge, this current study is the largest study of Kikuchi-Fujimoto lymphadenitis in Western patients that used polymerase chain reaction testing for 4 different common viral pathogens often implicated as etiologic agents in Kikuchi-Fujimoto lymphadenitis. Archival material from 3 institutions was included, following confirmation of the diagnosis of Kikuchi-Fujimoto lymphadenitis by 2 independent pathologists. Polymerase chain reaction from the paraffin-embedded tissue sections for parvovirus B19, Epstein-Barr virus, human herpesvirus 6, and human herpesvirus 8 was performed. Eighteen cases of Kikuchi-Fujimoto lymphadenitis were analyzed, 12 of which (60%) were cervical lymph nodes. All the cases showed typical geographic necrosis with abundant apoptotic debris, although the degree of necrosis was variable. Polymerase chain reaction revealed a high prevalence of parvovirus B19 in the controls (44%); there were fewer positive cases seen in the Kikuchi-Fujimoto lymphadenitis cases (11%), but this did not reach statistical significance (P = .25).There were no significant differences between cases and controls in the prevalence of Epstein-Barr virus, human herpesvirus 6, and human herpesvirus 8 (P = .50 for all 3). Polymerase chain reaction failed to reveal a positive association between Kikuchi-Fujimoto lymphadenitis and 4 common suspected viral agents. These findings do not support a role for Epstein-Barr virus, human herpesvirus 6, human herpesvirus 8, or parvovirus B19 in the pathogenesis of Kikuchi-Fujimoto lymphadenitis.

Kikuchi-fujimoto disease as a differential diagnosis for cervical lymphadenopathy in India: a case report and review of literature

Cervical Lymphadenopathy has a large list of differential diagnosis. In India, Tuberculosis and Malignant Neoplasms are the most common specific causes for cervical lymph node enlargement. Kikuchi-Fujimoto Disease (KFD), is an uncommon but increasingly reported cause, especially in Asia. Awareness of this condition amongst physicians leads to an accurate diagnosis without the need for expensive and often potentially harmful investigations. The disease is self limiting and responds well to symptomatic treatment.

SARS spike protein induces phenotypic conversion of human B cells to macrophage-like cells

Massive aggregations of macrophages are frequently detected in afflicted lungs of patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome-associated coronavirus (SARS-CoV) infection. In vitro, ectopic expression of transcription factors, in particular CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein alpha (C/EBPα) and C/EBPβ, can convert B cells into functional macrophages. However, little is known about the specific ligands responsible for such phenotype conversion. Here, we investigated whether spike protein of SARS-CoV can act as a ligand to trigger the conversion of B cells to macrophages. We transduced SARS-CoV spike protein-displayed recombinant baculovirus (SSDRB), vAtEpGS688, into peripheral B cells and B lymphoma cells. Cell surface expression of CD19 or Mac-1 (CD11b) was determined by flow cytometry. SSDRB-mediated changes in gene expression profiles of B lymphoma cells were analyzed by microarray. In this report, we showed that spike protein of SARS virus could induce phenotypic conversion of human B cells, either from peripheral blood or B lymphoma cells, to macrophage-like cells that were steadily losing the B-cell marker CD19 and in turn expressing the macrophage-specific marker Mac-1. Furthermore, we found that SSDRB enhanced the expression of CD86, hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF1α), suppressor of cytokine signaling (SOCS or STAT-induced STAT inhibitor)-3, C/EBPβ, insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 3 (IGFBP3), Krüpple-like factor (KLF)-5, and CD54, without marked influence on C/EBPα or PU.1 expression in transduced cells. Prolonged exposure to hypoxia could also induce macrophage-like conversion of B cells. These macrophage-like cells were defective in phagocytosis of red fluorescent beads. In conclusion, our results suggest that conversion of B cells to macrophage-like cells, similar to a pathophysiological response, could be mediated by a devastating viral ligand, in particular spike protein of SARS virus, or in combination with severe local hypoxia, which is a condition often observed in afflicted lungs of SARS patients.

[Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease]

Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease is a necrotizing lymphadenitis, involving young patients, predominantly females. Lymphadenopathy is usually localized, particularly in the cervical area, mostly unilateral and tender. Fever is present in one third of cases. Associated skin lesions, arthralgia, myalgia, splenomegaly or hepatomegaly are rare. Laboratory evaluation shows a slight increase of erythrocyte sedimentation rate and leukopenia. Kikuchi-Fujimoto has been reported in association with other diseases, including systemic lupus, Still's disease, hemophagocytosis, pregnancy, other autoimmune diseases, and cancer. A viral or bacterial origin has been suspected but not confirmed. Lymph node biopsy allows the diagnosis and shows necrotizing lymphadenitis with acidophil necrosis, CD68+ histiocyte infiltrate, presence of plasmacytoid monocytes, multiple apoptotic cells (CD8+ T cell) with nuclear dust, immunoblastic reaction and the absence of neutrophils or eosinophils. The disease course is usually spontaneously favourable in few weeks or months, requiring corticosteroids only occasionally.

Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease

Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease, or histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis, is a self-limited condition, characterized by benign lymphadenopathy with associated fevers and systemic symptoms. It most commonly affects adults younger than 40 years of age and of Asian descent. Involved lymph nodes demonstrate paracortical areas of apoptotic necrosis with abundant karyorrhectic debris and a proliferation of histiocytes, plasmacytoid dendritic cells, and CD8(+) T cells in the absence of neutrophils. Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease is thought to have 3 evolving phases: proliferative, necrotizing, and xanthomatous. The etiology is unknown, although viruses and autoimmune mechanisms have been proposed. No specific laboratory tests contribute to the diagnosis. Diagnosis requires histopathologic examination and exclusion of other factors by ancillary studies. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma and systemic lupus erythematosus should be ruled out before diagnosis of Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease, given the overlapped clinical and histologic features as well as the different therapeutic approaches. Treatment involves supportive measures, and the symptoms usually resolve spontaneously within 4 months.

Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease developed into autoimmune disease: a report of two cases

We report herein the pathological findings and clinical courses of two cases of Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease (KFD) that developed into autoimmune diseases. The patients are currently undergoing treatment for a disease similar to Sjogren's syndrome and systemic lupus erythematosus/mixed connective tissue disease. KFD is not an independent condition and most likely develops due to an autoimmune mechanism. Pediatricians should pay careful attention to KFD and encourage long-term follow-up in patients with this condition.

Treatment of histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis (Kikuchi's disease) with prolonged fever by a single course of methylprednisolone pulse therapy without maintenance therapy: experience with 13 cases

A 26-year-old man was hospitalized with a 1-month history of fever. Cervical lymph node biopsy showed necrosis in the paracortical area with abundant nuclear debris and proliferation of histiocytes. A diagnosis of histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis (HNL) (Kikuchi's disease) was made. He received methylprednisolone pulse therapy (MPT) (0.5 g/day for 3 days) without maintenance therapy and experienced dramatic improvement. We also used MPT for another 12 cases of HNL. All patients became afebrile within 1 day without adverse events. Four patients relapsed after the initial MPT, but only 1 patient relapsed during the following year. Our results suggest that MPT is warranted in HNL patients with prolonged fever.

Axillary and intramammary lymphadenopathy caused by Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease mimicking malignant lymphoma

We describe a rare case of intramammary and axillary lymphadenopathy caused by Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease (KFD). A 30-year-old woman presented with enlarged axillary lymph nodes and a right breast mass with tenderness. Computed tomography, ultrasonography, F-2-deoxy-fluoro-D-glucose positron emission tomography and fine-needle aspiration cytology were performed, and malignant lymphoma (ML) was suspected. Histological diagnosis of a needle biopsy and surgical specimen showed histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis. It is important to differentiate KFD from ML because of differences in treatment choice and clinical outcome.

Childhood Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease

To investigate the clinical features of Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease (KFD) and the relationship between viral infection and this disease in children will be better as Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease (KFD) is a lymphadenopathy. The aim of study is to investigate the clinical features of KFD and the relationship. The age, gender, clinical features and aetiopathogenesis of 36 Chinese children with FKD were reviewed, and the viral antigens were detected. Mean age was 10.1 +/- 2.8 yr with a male to female ratio of 1.8:1. Fever and lymphadenopathy were the most common complaints, noted in 23 and all cases respectively. Skin rash and hepatosplenomegaly were also noted. Leukopenia, anemia, thrombocytopenia and raised ESR were noted in 21, 6, 4 and 31 cases respectively. Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) IgM and IgG was positive in 1 and 24 of 29 cases respectively. Antigens of EBV and herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV 2) were found in the biopsy tissue section from 2 and 1 case respectively. Autoantibodies were noted in 3 of 15 cases. Steroid hormones were administrated for 19 cases with good efficacy. These results imply that children with lymphadenopathy and/or fever may have KFD and thus excisional biopsy of lymph nodes should be performed earlier on. A hyperimmune reaction of immune cells to EBV and HSV2 may play a role in the pathology of KFD.

Clinical outcome and predictive factors of recurrence among patients with Kikuchi's disease

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the clinical outcome and predictive factors of recurrence among patients with Kikuchi's disease.

METHODS

Between January 2001 and December 2006, all patients with Kikuchi's disease were included in the study. Data were collected on co-morbidities, clinical manifestations, and ultrasound/laboratory findings, and the differences were compared between recurrent disease and non-recurrent disease groups.

RESULTS

The study included 102 patients with a mean age of 26.7 years. Among these patients, three developed systemic lupus erythematosus during the follow-up period, while two cases were later associated with tuberculosis. Eight patients (7.8%) experienced early relapse and 13 (12.7%) showed late recurrence. Patients with recurrent episodes were more likely to have fever and fatigue with extranodal involvement. Compared to the non-recurrent cases, recurrent cases remained symptomatic for a rather longer duration. The positive rate of the fluorescence anti-nuclear antibody (FANA) test was significantly higher in the recurrent disease group compared to the non-recurrent disease group.

CONCLUSIONS

Kikuchi's disease took a self-limiting clinical course in most cases, but the recurrence rate found in the present study was higher than that of previous reports. Kikuchi's disease might be a phenotype of diverse disease entities. The prognosis is different according to the underlying cause. The FANA test would be useful in predicting recurrence.

Interface dermatitis in skin lesions of Kikuchi–Fujimoto’s disease: a histopathological marker of evolution into systemic lupus erythematosus?

Kikuchi’s disease (KD) is a self-limiting histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis (HNL). Cutaneous manifestations are frequent and usually show histopathological findings similar to those observed in the involved lymph nodes. HNL with superposed histological features to KD has been described in patients with lupus erythematosus (LE), and a group of healthy patients previously reported as having HNL may evolve into LE after several months. Up to date, features to predict which HNL patients will have a self-limiting disease and which could develop LE have been not identified. In order to clarify the characteristics of skin lesions associated with KD, we report a case of HNL with evolution into systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and a review of previous reports of KD with cutaneous manifestations. A 17-year-old woman presented with a 4-month history of fever and generalised lymphadenopathy. A diagnosis of HNL was established based on a lymph node biopsy. One month later, she developed an erythematoedematous rash on her upper body, with histopathological findings of interface dermatitis. After 8 months, anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA) at titre of 1/320, anti-DNA-ds antibodies and marked decrease of complement levels were detected. During the following 2 years, she developed diagnostic criteria for SLE, with arthralgias, pleuritis, aseptic meningitis, haemolytic anaemia and lupus nephritis. To our knowledge, 27 cases of nodal and cutaneous KD have been reported, 9 of which later developed LE. In all these patients, the skin biopsy revealed interface dermatitis. Skin biopsy revealed a pattern of interface dermatitis in all reviewed KD cases, which evolved into LE. Even this histopathological finding was not previously considered significant; it might be a marker of evolution into LE.