Nail and scalp lesions in a man with diabetes insipidus. Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH)

Extensive nail changes in a toddler with multisystemic Langerhans cell histiocytosis

Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a multisystem disorder involving various organs. Nail changes in LCH are extremely rare. We present this case report of extensive nail changes in an 18-month-old child with multisystem LCH.

Nail changes in Langerhans cell histiocytosis: a possible marker of multisystem disease

We describe a child with a 6-month history of onycholysis, subungual hyperkeratosis, and hemorrhages in most of her fingernails and toenails. Nail involvement preceded the identification of osteolytic lesions at the mastoid on a cranial computed tomography scan, which was performed because of repeated episodes of acute otitis media. Some weeks later, a small number of erythematous papules developed over the trunk and face. The diagnosis of Langerhans cell histiocytosis was made by histopathologic examination of bone, skin, and bed and matrix nail biopsies. Response to treatment with vinblastine and prednisone was excellent. Nail changes in Langerhans cell histiocytosis are extremely uncommon, particularly as the presenting manifestation of the disease. The role of nail involvement as an unfavorable prognostic sign is unclear.

Langerhans cell histiocytosis with involvement of nails and lungs in an adolescent

Skin and/or pulmonary involvement occur frequently in Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) whereas nail involvement is rare. Herein, we present a case of LCH with initial nail disease and subsequent lung involvement causing recurrent pneumothoraces. Systemic chemotherapy was applied and intrapleural bleomycine and thoracoscopic pleurodesis with talc were performed. Although prognosis is not satisfactory in LCH with recurrent pneumothorax and nail involvement, the patient is under follow-up with no evidence of skin lesions, nail involvement, and pneumothorax for the last 10 months.