Late progression of pediatric Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease to systemic lupus erythematosus : a case report

Abstract Background: Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease (KFD) is a rare benign condition affecting children. The main differential diagnoses are lymphoma and tuberculous nodes. KFD can spontaneously resolve. However, an association with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) has been reported, though it remains rare. Case report: We present the case of a patient with no history of immunodefiscinece, first seen at six years old for chronic cervical lymphadenopathy. Lymph node biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of KFD. Favorable evolution was obtained under corticotherapy treatment. Twelve years later, the diagnosis of SLE was made based on the appearance of skin symptoms and biological data. Throught this case, we insist to the possibility of a late transformation of KFD to a SLE and the necessity of prolonged follow-up. Conclusion: This report underscores the necessity for long-term monitoring of children diagnosed with KFD.