Langerhans cell histiocytosis in children： CT manifestation(report of 13 cases) / 中华放射学杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective　To study the value and limitation of CT in the damage to multiple organs in children with Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH). Methods　Analysis of CT manifestations was performed in 13 cases of LCH proved by clinical features, laboratory data, and pathologic changes. Localized LCH was found in 4 cases, and disseminated LCH in 9 cases. All cases were examined by plain scan in craniocerebral, chest, liver, and spleen, and four cases by contrast-enhanced CT scan. Results　The male outnumbered female in this group. Cranial bones were involved in the sequence of temporal bone(8 cases), parietal bone (3 cases), occipital bone (2 cases), and frontal bone (1 case). CT findings were very sensitive in showing the early destructions of the bones. The characteristic manifestation on CT was multiple lytic lesions of the flat bones at any sites, without reactive sclerosis and soft tissue mass accompanied with the bony lesion. Imaging findings presented later than the clinical manifestations for LCH involving the hypothalamus/pituitary axis. Involvement of the lung at various stages by LCH could be demonstrated by CT scan. Conclusion　Imaging manifestations had no characteristics in LCH involvement. The sites of predilection and related CT manifestations could be suggestive of the diagnosis. In addition, CT findings can be helpful in the classification and evaluation of the therapy and prognosis in LCH.