Kikuchi Disease Unveiling Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Rare Case of Initial Manifestation

Kikuchi disease is a rare condition, typically characterized by cervical lymphadenopathy and fever. Although its association with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is well established, the majority of SLE cases do not present with Kikuchi disease. We report a case of a young patient who presented with fever and cervical lymphadenopathies for two-weeks. This presents a broad differential, initially suggesting the possibility of infections or malignancies. However, after further clinical evaluation, including cervical node biopsy, direct histological examination revealed Kikuchi disease. Combining all clinical information and laboratory data, we concluded that the patient's condition was consistent with Kikuchi disease associated with SLE and probable autoimmune hepatitis. This case illustrates a young female patient with clinical presentations of SLE associated with Kikuchi disease as the first manifestation.