A Rare Case of Lymphadenopathy: Kikuchi-Fujimoto Disease

A relatively unknown cause of cervical lymphadenopathy is Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease, also known as histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis. This is a rare and benign condition that presents with painful cervical lymphadenopathy, fevers, night sweats, and weight loss. This disease is most prevalent in Asian women between the age of 20-35 years. The diagnosis of Kikuchi Disease is made histologically and is characterized by paracortical areas of necrosis and a notable complete absence of neutrophils. The painful lymphadenopathy can be simply treated with antipyretics, but due to its presenting symptoms of Kikuchi disease, it is often mistaken for malignant lymphoma. As such, accurate diagnosis is required to avoid unnecessary testing. The evaluation of lymphadenopathy without an obvious cause can be quite challenging. When patients present with relapsing remitting lymphadenopathy, Kikuchi disease may warrant consideration.