Langerhans cell histiocytosis with vertebral involvement in a pediatric patient. Case report

Abstract

Langerhans cell histiocytosis is a rare disorder in pediatric patients. The clinical presentation is heterogeneous and can affect different organs, including bones. In Peru, there is no exact data on prevalence. We present a case of Langerhans cell histiocytosis in a child who came to the emergency room of Edgardo Rebagliati Martins National Hospital with a 2 week history of dorsal pain associated with paraparesis and loss of sphincter control. Magnetic resonance imaging of the spine showed an expansive process at the level of the T7 vertebra that compromised the spinal canal. Corticosteroid therapy was immediately started due to suspicion of spinal cord compression syndrome and excision and biopsy of the tumor was performed, which was compatible with Langerhans cell histiocytosis, that was the reason why chemotherapy was started with Vinblastine. Finally, the patient was discharged to continue outpatient management by pediatric oncology.