Langerhans cell histiocytosis mimicking acute otitis media in childhood—a case presentation

Abstract

Abstract Background Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is an abnormal polyclonal proliferation of Langerhans cells that affect different parts of the body. Temporal bone involvement is quite common among the involved sites. The etiology is unknown. Diagnosis is based on symptoms, imaging, and histopathology. Especially LCH in temporal bone is confused with acute or subacute otitis media. There are many treatment options in LCH. Case presentation Here, a 2-year-old pediatric patient with pain in the right ear was diagnosed as having LCH as a result of the examinations. MRG revealed multiple lesions in the temporal bone, sphenoid bone, and clivus. She was treated with steroids and vinblastine. Conclusion Possible tumoral formations should be kept in mind when children complain of otalgia and otitis media-like clinical picture for a long time.

Keywords

• Langerhans cell histiocytosis
• Temporal bone
• Children
• Ear