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Hypereosinophilic syndrome in a child presenting as eosinophilic pharyngitis

Ronen Spiegel1, Luci Zalman, Herzel Gavriel

  • 1Pediatric Department, HaEmek Medical Center, Afula, Israel. spiegelr@zahav.net.il

Journal of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology
|September 16, 2003
PubMed

Insights

Idiopathic hypereosinophilic syndrome (IHES) can manifest as eosinophilic pharyngitis in children. This case highlights the pharynx as a potential target organ in IHES, even with a benign clinical course.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Hematology
  • Immunology
  • Otolaryngology

Background:

  • Idiopathic hypereosinophilic syndrome (IHES) is a rare disorder characterized by persistent elevation of eosinophils without an identifiable cause.
  • Understanding the diverse clinical manifestations of IHES is crucial for timely diagnosis and management.

Observation:

  • A 3-year-old child presented with persistent sore throat and pharyngeal exudate.
  • Throat cultures were negative, but microscopic examination revealed extensive eosinophilic infiltration in the pharyngeal tissue.
  • The child exhibited marked hypereosinophilia and pharyngeal involvement for 14 months, with no other organ systems affected.

Findings:

  • The case demonstrates eosinophilic pharyngitis as a potential presenting sign of IHES in pediatric patients.
  • Laboratory findings included persistent marked hypereosinophilia.
  • Histopathological analysis confirmed significant eosinophilic infiltration of the pharynx.

Implications:

  • The pharynx may represent a specific target organ in idiopathic hypereosinophilic syndrome.
  • Recognizing eosinophilic pharyngitis in the context of hypereosinophilia can aid in diagnosing IHES.
  • This finding contributes to the understanding of IHES's varied clinical spectrum and its potential impact on the upper respiratory tract.

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