Langerhans cell histiocytosis of the acetabulum in adults

This article presents 2 uncommon cases of Langerhans cell histiocytosis of the acetabulum in adults. Langerhans cell histiocytosis is a benign lesion of bone with a diversity of radiographic appearances depending on location. Radiographs of our cases showed a clearly defined radiolucent area at the acetabulum. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed specific findings for Langerhans cell histiocytosis of the acetabulum. Gadolinium-enhanced images showed that abnormal signal was spread to the whole acetabulum surrounding the lesion. Orthopedic surgeons should be aware of the existence of this lesion and attentive to patients who report spontaneous hip pain, although Langerhans cell histiocytosis is a rare condition in adults. It is generally agreed that prognosis is more dependent on age at the time of diagnosis rather than on therapy. We recommend simple curettage for Langerhans cell histiocytosis of the acetabulum in adults to obtain a definite diagnosis and relieve pain.