Recurrent adult-onset hypophyseal Langerhans cell histiocytosis after radiotherapy: A case report

Ryan K. Funk, Daniel J. Ferraro, Richard J. Perrin, Kyle M. Hurth, John J. Stephens, David B. Mansur, Michael R. Chicoine, Joseph R. Simpson, Jerry J. Jaboin

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

Introduction. Langerhans cell histiocytosis is a rare disease within the adult population, with very few cases reported as solitary hypophyseal lesions in adults. Of the reported cases, most have been treated successfully with surgery, radiotherapy, and/or chemotherapy. Radiotherapy has been thought to be curative at the relatively low dose of 20Gy. Here we report a case of recurrent hypophyseal Langerhans cell histiocytosis 9 months after radiotherapy with an interval period of symptomatic and radiographic response to therapy. Case presentation. A 50-year-old Caucasian woman who had headaches, memory difficulties, and diabetes insipidus was found to have a 2.5cm suprasellar mass. Langerhans cell histiocytosis was diagnosed following stereotactic brain biopsy. Further workup revealed no other lesions. Initial radiation treatment succeeded in shrinking the tumor and relieving clinical symptoms temporarily; however, growth and recurrence of clinical symptoms was noted at 9 months. Re-irradiation was well tolerated and the patient had no acute side effects. Conclusion: Isolated hypophyseal involvement by Langerhans cell histiocytosis in adults is a unique presentation of a rare disease. Although radiotherapy doses as low as 20Gy have been reported to offer control, this case demonstrates that higher doses may be warranted to ensure tumor control. With modern imaging and radiotherapy techniques higher doses should offer little increased more durable risk to surrounding critical structures.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Article number341
JournalJournal of Medical Case Reports
Volume6
DOIs
StatePublished - 2012
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Medicine

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Recurrent adult-onset hypophyseal Langerhans cell histiocytosis after radiotherapy: A case report'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this