Langerhans’ Cell Histiocytosis in Infants:Imaging and Follow-up / 实用放射学杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To study the initial and the follow-up manifestations of infants with Langerhans’ cell histiocytosis (LCH) and evaluate the relationship between X-ray manifestations and clinical prognosis. Methods The radiological manifestations were analysed in 22 cases of LCH proved by clinical features, laboratory data, and pathology. According to Lavin’s Grade, the 22 cases were classified as Grade I (9 cases), Grade II (9 cases), and Grade III (4 cases). Plain radiography was performed in all cases during the initial and the follow-up,including cranial bones, chest, long bones, and spine. CT was performed in 12 cases. Results Of the 22 cases, there were 7 cases which lesions were limited to bones. 5 of them were demonstrated with ossification and remodeling of the involved bone after chemotherapy.The remaining 15 cases were associated with multi-systemic involvements, only 4 of which improved after chemotherapy. Among these 15 cases, 7 had lung involvement, only 2 of which had gotten better. Hypothalamus/pituitary axis was affected in 1 case. Conclusion The extension of the bone involvement can reflect LCH clinical prognosis. However,the lung involvement of LCH, which mainly presented with interstitial lesion, is not sensitive for the evaluation of clinical situation.LCH with limited bone destructions have a better prognosis than those with the multi-systemic involvements.