Erdheim-Chester disease. Case report and review of the literature

Am J Med. 1986 Jun;80(6):1230-6. doi: 10.1016/0002-9343(86)90694-7.

Abstract

Erdheim-Chester disease is a distinctive pathologic and radiographic entity characterized by bilateral, symmetric sclerosis of the metaphyseal regions of long bones and infiltration of foamy, lipid-laden histiocytes. Clinically, it ranges from an asymptomatic, focal process to a fatal, systemic disease. All previously reported cases of Erdheim-Chester disease are reviewed and a new case with diabetes insipidus, partial hypopituitarism, histiocytic skin lesions, and retro-orbital tumors is presented. An 11-year follow-up reveals progression from a benign, limited process to a progressive, systemic disease. Patients with Erdheim-Chester disease show markedly disparate clinical courses and some features similar to Hand-Schüller-Christian disease. They need careful monitoring and further attempts at treatment.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Bone Diseases / complications
  • Bone Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Bone Diseases / pathology
  • Diabetes Insipidus / diagnosis
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Hypopituitarism / complications
  • Lymphatic Diseases / complications
  • Lymphatic Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Lymphatic Diseases / pathology
  • Lymphatic Diseases / therapy
  • Male
  • Osteolysis / complications