Work

Cytomegalovirus Infection-Associated Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis and Histiocytic Necrotising Lymphadenitis Progressing to Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Case Report

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune multisystem disorder predominantly seen in young females. Its clinical presentation is enormously heterogeneous. Genetic, epigenetic and environmental factors cause SLE. Secondary hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) associated with cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is observed in immunocompromised patients and is rare in immunocompetent patients. Histiocytic necrotising lymphadenitis (HNL) is a self-limiting hyperimmune reaction rarely associated with HLH. CMV infection can be associated with HLH, HNL, and SLE. In this case, we discuss an immunocompetent young female patient who presented with an upper respiratory tract infection, which led to HLH and HNL associated with CMV infection. She recovered with initial intravenous methylprednisolone pulse immunosuppressive treatment. However, the patient later evolved into SLE.

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.100871

Authors: Madhushan Ranabahu, Sachinthana Sumanasekara, Dilini Wickramaratne, Vasana Mendis, Prasanna Weerawansa

Institutions: Post Graduate Institute of Medicine, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka, University of Colombo, University of Peradeniya, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka

Language: English

Topic: Autoimmune and Inflammatory Disorders Research

Subfield: Hematology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W7119113560