Kikuchi-Fujimoto's disease, histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis, mimicking systemic lupus erythematosus

Kikuchi-Fujimoto's disease (KFD) or histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis is a self-limiting condition characterized by fever, neutropenia and lymphadenopathy. It is rarely associated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The authors reported a case of Kikuchi's necrotizing lymphadenitis who presented with fever, generalized lymphadenopathy, moderate leukopenia, polyarthritis, vasculitis-like lesions and oral ulcers compatible with SLE but serologic tests for autoimmune disease were all negative. The clinical symptoms resolved spontaneously within 3 months without any treatment. Because there is an association between KFD and SLE, great care should be taken with a patient who presents with either KFD or SLE.