Rosai-Dorfman Disease Preceding Acute Myeloid Leukemia: An Extremely Rare Case and A Literature Review

Rosai-Dorfman disease (RDD) is a histiocytic disorder that was recently reclassified as a histiocytic neoplasm. It is characterized by nodal and extranodal involvement. Leukaemia-associated RDD is a rare subtype of neoplasia-associated RDD, particularly when leukaemia precedes RDD, with only one paediatric case reported in the literature.

A 33-year-old woman presented with cervical swelling that had persisted for one month. Ultrasound examination and biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of RDD. The patient subsequently developed raccoon eyes and bilateral eyelid oedema. Laboratory investigations revealed bicytopenia and leukocytosis. Unexpectedly, bone marrow aspirate and flow cytometry confirmed the presence of acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). Following repeated complaints of headache, brain magnetic resonance imaging revealed a callosal lesion, suggestive of a space-occupying lesion. One year later, the patient relapsed and died from septicaemia.

This case report describes the progression of RDD to AML in an adult, highlighting the need for long-term follow-up and further research into its pathogenesis to improve outcomes.

The occurrence of Rosai-Dorfman disease (RDD) followed by acute myeloid leukaemia is extremely rare, suggesting more than a coincidental link and providing a foundation for research into RDD pathophysiology and prognosis.Physicians should be aware of the potential progression of RDD to malignancy, even after complete remission, and ensure thorough follow-up for early detection.