Langerhans Cell Hyperplasia From Molluscum Contagiosum

Am J Dermatopathol. 2015 Aug;37(8):e93-5. doi: 10.1097/DAD.0000000000000201.

Abstract

Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) carries a prognosis, which ranges from benign to potentially fatal. There is currently little framework to decipher metrics, which predict the benign versus aggressive nature of LCH. We wanted to determine whether molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV) DNA could be isolated from a cutaneous lesion, demonstrating Langerhans cell hyperplasia resembling LCH in a patient with both. Polymerase chain reaction on biopsy-proven MCV and the hyperplastic lesion has been performed. Two specific regions within the MCV genome were detected from both biopsies. The authors report our findings and suggest that some MCV can produce histological lesions resembling LCH, similar to the literature on scabies mimicking LCH. Efforts to find a reactive "driver" in LCH may significantly inform the clinical scenario.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Antigens, CD1 / analysis
  • DNA, Viral / analysis*
  • Histiocytosis, Langerhans-Cell / metabolism
  • Histiocytosis, Langerhans-Cell / pathology*
  • Histiocytosis, Langerhans-Cell / virology*
  • Humans
  • Hyperplasia / pathology
  • Hyperplasia / virology
  • Langerhans Cells / pathology*
  • Male
  • Molluscum Contagiosum / complications*
  • Molluscum contagiosum virus / genetics
  • S100 Proteins / analysis

Substances

  • Antigens, CD1
  • CD1a antigen
  • DNA, Viral
  • S100 Proteins