Castleman's disease--a rare disease with varying presentation

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Hematology
• Oncology

Background:

• Castleman disease is a rare immunoproliferative disorder affecting lymph nodes, with unicentric and multicentric forms.
• The multicentric form, though benign, poses treatment challenges and can have a poor prognosis.
• Delayed diagnosis is common due to its resemblance to lymphoma, thymoma, and other lymph node pathologies.

Observation:

• Three cases of Castleman disease in young patients presented significant diagnostic dilemmas.
• One case was associated with pemphigus vulgaris, complicating initial diagnosis and treatment.
• Patients experienced prolonged treatment for presumed alternative conditions before Castleman disease was identified.

Findings:

• Despite diagnostic challenges, the encountered cases of Castleman disease responded well to appropriate treatment.
• All patients are currently doing well under follow-up, indicating effective therapeutic strategies.

Implications:

• Castleman disease should be included in the differential diagnosis for suspected lymphoma or lymph node enlargement.
• Consideration of Castleman disease is crucial for treatment-refractory pemphigus vulgaris cases.
• Raising awareness of Castleman disease can expedite diagnosis and improve patient prognosis.