Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis: Clinical Presentations and Diagnosis

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is an overwhelming clinical syndrome associated with extreme immune activation. Familial HLH is caused by autosomal-recessive inheritance of gene mutations that cripple lymphocyte cytotoxicity. X-linked lymphoproliferative diseases and mutations in Nod-like receptor caspase activation and recruitment domain containing protein 4 (NLRC4) also feature HLH as a predominant manifestation. In addition, "secondary" HLH may occur in immunocompromized patients or in individuals with previously intact immune responses in the context of strong immunologic triggers such as EBV infection, malignancy, rheumatologic disease, and drug hypersensitivity. Regardless of the etiology, HLH is often fatal unless recognized and treated aggressively. Research over the last 20 years has led to many advances in diagnosis and treatment. Rapid testing strategies designed to quickly screen for immune activation and cytotoxic lymphocyte dysfunction are now clinically available and genetic panels/testing algorithms may accelerate a genetic diagnosis. Immunosuppressive treatment protocols have been refined, and experience is gaining with alternative and salvage approaches. However, these advances improve the outcome of patients only when the diagnosis of HLH is made. Ongoing education is needed to ensure medical providers can appropriately recognize and diagnose HLH. This Grand Rounds Review will summarize the clinical and diagnostic features of HLH and highlight known genetic causes.