Unifocal Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis Presenting as an Aggressive Bone Lesion
Received 15 August 2003
Abstract
Objective
To discuss a case of unifocal Langerhans cell histiocytosis (eosinophilic granuloma) presenting as an aggressive osseous destructive process.
Clinical Features
A 6-year-old girl had thigh pain of insidious onset that would wake her at night. Orthopedic testing reproduced local pain, and imaging revealed an osteolytic process in the femoral diaphysis with laminated periosteal reaction.
Intervention and Outcome
The patient was referred for further evaluation; unifocal Langerhans cell histiocytosis was found at biopsy and spontaneous healing subsequently reported.
Conclusions
Unifocal Langerhans cell histiocytosis may present with deceptive clinical and imaging findings, of which clinicians should be aware.
Sources of support: none
aSenior Lecturer in Radiology, University of Glamorgan, Wales
bPrivate Practice of Chiropractic, Hereford, England
Submit requests for reprints to: Kenneth J. Young, DC, Welsh Institute of Chiropractic, University of Glamorgan, Pontypridd CF37 1DL, Wales, UK
ABSTRACT