Kikuchi-Fujimoto Disease: A Review

Area of Science:

• Pathology
• Immunology
• Rare Diseases

Background:

• Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease (KFD) is a rare, self-limiting condition affecting lymph nodes.
• It primarily impacts young adults, particularly of Asian descent, but occurs globally.
• The etiology of KFD remains elusive despite extensive research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the key diagnostic features of Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease.
• To highlight the histological and immunohistochemical findings.
• To discuss the differential diagnosis and clinical challenges.

Main Methods:

• Review of histological patterns in lymph node biopsies.
• Immunohistochemical analysis of cellular markers.
• Comparison with differential diagnoses including infectious, autoimmune, and neoplastic conditions.

Main Results:

• KFD presents as necrotizing lymphadenopathy with characteristic paracortical expansion.
• Histology shows patchy necrosis with karyorrhectic debris, lacking neutrophils and eosinophils.
• Immunohistochemistry reveals T-cell predominance (CD8+) and myeloperoxidase-positive histiocytes.

Conclusions:

• KFD diagnosis relies on characteristic histopathology and immunohistochemistry.
• Familiarity with KFD is crucial for clinicians and pathologists to avoid misdiagnosis.
• Distinguishing KFD from lymphoma and autoimmune conditions is essential.