LANGERHANS CELL HISTIOCYTOSIS

Langerhans cell histiocytosis, or LCH, is a condition in which the body accumulates an excess of immune system cells known as Langerhans cells. These cells aid in immune system regulation, are present throughout the body, particularly in the skin, lymph nodes, spleen, lungs, liver, and bone marrow.

Moreover, LCH is characterized by an excess of immature Langerhans cells, which frequently develop tumors known as granulomas. This sort of tumor can form in the bones or skull, causing swelling, pain, and potentially arm or leg fractures.

SYMPTOMS

The signs and symptoms of Langerhans cell histiocytosis can range from mild to severe. While the symptoms may go away on their own in some cases, in others, they can spread and affect other parts of the body.

This condition often affects the bones. However, it may also affect the following:

  • Lymph nodes. The glands may swell, which can cause breathing difficulties.
  • Skin. Babies with this kind of condition develop red, scaly scalps, which is frequently confused as the condition known as cradle cap.
  • Liver. When LHC affects the liver, the skin will appear jaundiced or yellowish.

DIAGNOSIS

In order to diagnose this condition, the doctor may conduct a tissue biopsy. This procedure will allow the doctor to determine whether you have this condition.

Furthermore, aside from this and a physical exam, your doctor may also administer the following tests:

  • Bone marrow biopsy
  • Urinalysis
  • Blood chemistry test
  • Imaging tests, such as PET, MRIs, and CT scans

TREATMENT

Chemotherapy is occasionally used to treat LCH. This is why most people with this condition are advised to seek treatment from cancer specialists, such as hematologists and oncologists.

In addition to chemotherapy, treatment options include:

  • Surgical removal of the LCH lesions
  • Low-dose radiation
  • Steroids and anti-inflammatory drugs
  • Ultraviolet light therapy
  • Stem cell transplant

For severe cases, a liver, lung, or bone marrow transplant may be required. Nevertheless, LCH may sometimes go away on its own.

Moreover, when this illness affects your bone marrow, spleen, or liver, your condition will then be labeled as a high-risk LCH. Nevertheless, approximately 80% of high-risk LCH patients survive. Also, with therapy, the majority of the patients who suffer from LCH recover.

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