A case of recurrent Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease with SLE / 대한내과학회지

ABSTRACT

Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease (KFD) is a rare self-limiting necrotizing lymphadenitis found mainly in young women. Patients typically present with lymphadenopathy and often with a high temperature. The etiology of the disease remains unknown, but various viral infection and autoimmune processes have been postulated to be the cause. One theory proposes that KFD may be a self-limiting form of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). This theory is strongly supported by the fact that microscopic features of KFD can be very similar to those found in lupus lymphadenitis. The diagnosis of KFD can precede, postdate or coincide with the diagnosis of SLE. No treatment is usually needed and relapse, although possible, is uncommon. Our case describes a young woman, originally diagnosed as having SLE, who subsequently developed recurrent KFD with axillary lymphadenopathy and fever.