Contrast-enhanced sonography in the diagnosis of Langerhans cell hyperplasia in children with isolated liver involvement: A case report and review of the literature.
Liu Yang, Minjuan Peng, Ni Ni et al.
✦ AI-curated · Sources linked
Case in brief
An 11-year-old girl presented with intermittent abdominal pain. Imaging studies revealed multiple liver nodules with a distinctive 'wash-in and wash-out' enhancement pattern, aiding in the diagnosis of isolated hepatic Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH). A liver biopsy confirmed the diagnosis, and the patient was treated with immunosuppressants and chemotherapy, showing favorable recovery at 6 months.
What made this case unusual
The imaging pattern observed during the portal venous and delayed phases, where the lesions exhibited a unique enhancement characteristic, was pivotal for diagnosis.
Diagnostic / clinical pearl
Clinicians should consider the specific contrast-enhanced ultrasound features of hepatic LCH when evaluating focal liver lesions in children, as these can aid in accurate diagnosis.
Why it matters
Recognizing the imaging characteristics of LCH can prevent diagnostic delays and facilitate timely intervention in pediatric patients.