Kikuchi Fujimoto disease secondary to Entamoeba histolytica: case report

J Infect. 2006 Oct;53(4):e171-3. doi: 10.1016/j.jinf.2005.12.007. Epub 2006 Jan 24.

Abstract

Kikuchi Fujimoto disease (KFD) is a rare histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis which has a benign self-limiting clinical course. Its origin is unknown, but an abnormal autoimmune reaction has been suggested and infection is often considered to be an inciting agent. A 50-year-old man presented with fever, malaise, fatigue and sweat of 7 days duration, and diarrhea for 2 days. Physical examination revealed five mobile and painless cervical adenopathies. Entamoeba histolytica trophozoites and cysts were detected by microscopy of feces. Parenteral ornidazole treatment was commenced. Thorax computerized tomography showed lymph node sizes congruent with infection in the mediastinum, right hilus and right axillary region. Axillary lymph node biopsy and immunohistochemical analyses were then performed, and the results were consistent with histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis. From day 4 of antibiotic treatment the patient's body temperature decreased and reached a normal level on day 10. After discharge the patient returned for follow-up twice and was asymptomatic; his lymph nodes were either unpalpable or were decreased in size. We could not find any previous study or case report about a probable role for E. histolytica. Amebiasis can be a triggering factor in KFD or alternatively it is possible that its occurrence is coincidental.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Entamoeba histolytica*
  • Entamoebiasis / complications*
  • Histiocytic Necrotizing Lymphadenitis / diagnosis*
  • Histiocytic Necrotizing Lymphadenitis / parasitology*
  • Histiocytic Necrotizing Lymphadenitis / pathology
  • Humans
  • Lymph Nodes / pathology
  • Male
  • Middle Aged