Kikuchi-Fujimoto Disease Secondary to Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Case Report

S. Aakash Surya *

ABVIMS and Dr. RML Hospital, India.

Kavita Chaudhary

ABVIMS and Dr. RML Hospital, India.

*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.


Abstract

Aims: To describe a rare case of Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease (KFD) secondary to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), emphasizing diagnostic challenges, therapeutic approach, and a review of relevant literature.

Study Design: Case report.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Medicine, ABVIMS & Dr. RML hospital, over a period of two months in 2024.

Methodology: We present an 18-year-old female with a 4-month history of photosensitive malar rash, intermittent fevers, generalized lymphadenopathy, weight loss, and hair thinning. Extensive investigations revealed anemia, transaminitis, hypocomplementemia, and strongly positive ANA (SSA+). PET-CT revealed hypermetabolic lymphadenopathy. Lymph node biopsy showed histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis consistent with KFD. The patient fulfilled ACR/EULAR criteria for SLE. She was treated with hydroxychloroquine, corticosteroids and mycophenolate mofetil.

Results: Diagnosis of KFD secondary to SLE was established. The patient responded well to immunosuppressive therapy and remains asymptomatic on follow-up.

Conclusion: This case highlights the importance of considering KFD-SLE overlap in young females presenting with prolonged fever and lymphadenopathy. Early biopsy and serological work-up are crucial for differentiating from infectious and malignant etiologies.

Keywords: Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease, systemic lupus erythematosus, lymphadenopathy, histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis, case report.

Keywords: Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease, systemic lupus erythematosus, lymphadenopathy, histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis


How to Cite

Surya, S. Aakash, and Kavita Chaudhary. 2025. “Kikuchi-Fujimoto Disease Secondary to Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Case Report”. Asian Journal of Research in Infectious Diseases 16 (8):44-50. https://doi.org/10.9734/ajrid/2025/v16i8477.

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