A rare case of Kikuchi's disease of the cervical lymph node

Kikuchi's disease, or histiocytic necrotising lymphadenitis, is an uncommon and unique form of self-limiting lymphadenitis and typically affects the head and neck regions. The most common clinical manifestation is cervical lymphadenopathy, with or without systemic signs and symptoms. Clinically and histologically, the disease can be mistaken for lymphoma or systemic lupus erythematosus. Pathologically, presence of karyorrhexis, paracortical areas of necrosis and the absence of neutrophils, eosinophils and plasma cells were consistent with Kikuchi's disease. CT scan showed enlarged lymph nodes with hypodense centres and peripheral ring enhancement. As Kikuchi's disease can be cured by steroid, its diagnosis can prevent unnecessary surgery.