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Langerhans cell histiocytosis of the sternum
Hiroyuki Tsuchie1, Kyoji Okada, Hiroyuki Nagasawa
1Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Akita University School of Medicine, 1-1-1 Hondo, Akita, Japan. tsuchie@doc.med.akita-u.ac.jp
Insights
We describe a rare case of Langerhans cell histiocytosis affecting the sternum in a 12-year-old girl. Chemotherapy effectively resolved her chest pain and swelling, indicating successful treatment for this rare bone condition.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Oncology
- Histiocytosis
- Skeletal Pathology
Background:
- Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a rare clonal proliferative disorder of cells resembling Langerhans cells.
- While LCH commonly affects bones, sternal involvement is exceptionally rare.
Observation:
- A 12-year-old female presented with anterior chest pain and swelling.
- Imaging revealed an osteolytic sternal lesion with increased uptake on bone scintigraphy, also noted in the right femur and tibia.
- Histopathological analysis confirmed Langerhans cell histiocytosis.
Findings:
- The sternal lesion was diagnosed as Langerhans cell histiocytosis.
- The patient responded well to chemotherapy, with complete resolution of symptoms.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering LCH in pediatric patients with sternal osteolytic lesions.
- Early diagnosis and prompt chemotherapy are crucial for favorable outcomes in sternal LCH.
- Further research into the specific mechanisms and optimal treatment strategies for rare LCH presentations is warranted.
Abstract:
We report a rare case of Langerhans cell histiocytosis involving the sternum. The patient was a 12-year-old girl presenting with anterior chest pain and swelling. Radiographs and computed tomography showed an osteolytic lesion in the sternum. Technetium bone scintigraphy revealed increased uptakes in the sternum, the greater trochanter of the right femur, and the right distal tibia. Incisional biopsy for the sternum lesion was performed, and the histopathologic diagnosis was Langerhans cell histiocytosis. She was treated with chemotherapy and the symptoms disappeared.
