Lofgren Syndrome in a 35-Year-Old Female: A Case Report

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Pulmonology
• Dermatology

Background:

• Lofgren syndrome is an acute presentation of sarcoidosis.
• It is characterized by fever, bilateral hilar lymphadenopathy, and erythema nodosum.
• Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a case of Lofgren syndrome in a 35-year-old female patient from Ethiopia.
• To illustrate the diagnostic process and successful management of this condition.
• To emphasize the importance of recognizing Lofgren syndrome in clinical practice.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a patient presenting with arthritis, fever, and erythema nodosum.
• Diagnostic workup included chest imaging (X-ray and CT scan) to assess for lymphadenopathy and lung nodules.
• Exclusion of alternative diagnoses such as tuberculosis.
• Treatment initiated with low-dose prednisolone.

Main Results:

• The patient presented with acute arthritis, fever, and skin lesions consistent with erythema nodosum.
• Chest imaging confirmed bilateral hilar and mediastinal lymphadenopathy and perilymphatic nodules.
• Exclusionary workup ruled out tuberculosis.
• Low-dose prednisolone led to prompt symptom improvement.

Conclusions:

• Lofgren syndrome is a distinct clinical entity within sarcoidosis.
• Prompt diagnosis and corticosteroid treatment lead to favorable outcomes.
• This case underscores the importance of considering Lofgren syndrome in patients with compatible symptoms.