Haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis: an elusive syndrome

Haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis is a rare inflammatory condition. It can present in adult general medical patients and is a challenging diagnostic conundrum. This article provides an overview of the pathophysiology and clinical presentation of the syndrome for the general physician who will be rarely confronted with this problem but will have to act promptly when the situation arises. Treatment is also briefly discussed, although this usually occurs in a specialist setting after the diagnosis has been established.