A case of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis caused by an Epstein-Barr virus infection, presenting with unremitting fever and rash
- Author:
Seong Beom OH
1
;
Chan Young KOH
Author Information
- Publication Type:Case Report
- Keywords: Epstein-Barr Virus Infections; Exanthema; Ferritins; Fever; Lymphohistiocytosis, Hemophagocytic
- MeSH: Adolescent; Biopsy; Bone Marrow; Diagnosis; Drug Therapy; Epstein-Barr Virus Infections; Exanthema; Ferritins; Fever; Herpesvirus 4, Human; Humans; Jaundice; Lymphocytes; Lymphohistiocytosis, Hemophagocytic; Macrophages; Male; Thrombocytopenia
- From:Pediatric Emergency Medicine Journal 2019;6(1):26-30
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
- Abstract: Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a hyperinflammatory syndrome caused by excessive activation of lymphocytes and macrophages, leading to cytokine storm. Infection-associated HLH is most common, and Epstein-Barr virus is the leading triggers. Quick diagnosis is essential for starting the treatment before irreversible damage. We report a case of 16-year-old boy who presented with unremitted fever, jaundice, and erythematous maculopapular rash all over the body. Investigations showed thrombocytopenia, hyperferritinemia, hypertriglycemia, and the bone marrow biopsy showed hemophagocytosis. Epstein-Barr virus antibody was positive. He responded to chemotherapy as per the HLH-2004 protocol and supportive treatment, and was discharged without complication on day 17.
