American Journal of Perinatology Reports (Mar 2013)

BRAF V600E-Positive Multisite Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis in a Preterm Neonate

  • Sara V. Bates,
  • Ashwini Lakshmanan,
  • Adam L. Green,
  • Jefferson Terry,
  • Gayane Badalian-Very,
  • Barrett J. Rollins,
  • Patricia Fleck,
  • Muhammad Aslam,
  • Barbara A. Degar

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0033-1338168
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 03, no. 02
pp. 063 – 066

Abstract

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Abstract Hemorrhagic pustules with a “blueberry muffin” appearance accompanied by respiratory failure in a neonate present a challenging differential diagnosis that includes infections and neoplasms. We present a case of multiorgan, multisite Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH), positive for the oncogenic BRAF V600E mutation, in a preterm neonate. Infants with LCH pose a diagnostic challenge due to their heterogeneous presentations. This case is unusual in that the newborn presented with severe multiorgan involvement. Due to the rare incidence, wide spectrum of clinical manifestations, and high mortality rate, clinicians must maintain a high index of suspicion for LCH.

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