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IgG4-rich reactive lymphoid hyperplasia of the lacrimal gland
Norberto Mancera1, Jasmina Bajric1, Curtis E Margo1,2
1Department of Ophthalmology, University of South Florida , Tampa, Florida, USA.
Insights
A rare case of IgG4-rich reactive lymphoid hyperplasia in the lacrimal gland was identified in a young woman. Its relationship to IgG4-related disease and lymphoma requires further investigation.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Immunology
- Pathology
Background:
- Immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4)-related disease is a fibroinflammatory condition affecting various organs.
- Lacrimal gland involvement can occur in IgG4-related disease, but reactive lymphoid hyperplasia is not a typical presentation.
Observation:
- A 24-year-old woman presented with reactive lymphoid hyperplasia of the lacrimal gland.
- Histopathology revealed a high density of IgG4-positive plasma cells (40-60% of IgG+ cells).
- Modest elevation in serum IgG4 levels was noted.
Findings:
- The patient showed a transient response to corticosteroids, followed by treatment with rituximab.
- This condition is not currently recognized as part of the IgG4-related disease spectrum or a lymphoma precursor.
- The biological potential and long-term behavior of IgG4-rich reactive lymphoid hyperplasia are unknown.
Implications:
- This case highlights a distinct entity of IgG4-rich reactive lymphoid hyperplasia in the lacrimal gland.
- Further research is needed to determine the natural history and potential for progression to IgG4-related disease or lymphoma.
- Understanding this condition may refine diagnostic criteria and treatment strategies for IgG4-related orbital conditions.
Abstract:
We describe an otherwise healthy 24-year-old woman with reactive lymphoid hyperplasia of one lacrimal gland. She was found to have modest elevation of serum IgG4 and high density of IgG4+ plasma cells in her lacrimal gland, ranging from 40% to 60% of IgG+ plasma cells. The patient transiently responded to systemic corticosteroids before treatment with rituximab. IgG4-rich reactive lymphoid hyperplasia of the lacrimal gland is neither an established part of IgG4-related disease spectrum nor a known precursor lesion to lymphoma. Although there is a plausible risk of transforming to IgG4-related disease or to lymphoma, the biological potential and natural history of IgG4-rich reactive lymphoid hyperplasia remains to be determined.
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