Indeterminate cell histiocytosis successfully treated with ultraviolet B phototherapy.
Indeterminate cell histiocytosis (ICH) is a rare disorder, characterized by infiltration of the skin by neoplastic cells that are characteristically positive for S-100 and CD1a, but lack Birbeck's granules. A 75-year-old man presented with a 4-year history of multiple papules on the trunk, limbs, face and neck. Skin biopsy revealed dense infiltration of histiocytic cells that were CD1a+/S100+, but lacked Birbeck's granules. No other abnormality was seen during a general examination including a computed tomography scan of the body, gallium scintigraphy, and an abdominal sonography. Broadband ultraviolet B (UVB) treatment was used for the skin lesions, and partial but almost complete remission was obtained. The case suggests that UVB phototherapy is an option for treatment of ICH.
Ishibashi
M
M
Department of Dermatology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan. ishibashi@saichu.jp
Ouchi
T
T
Tanikawa
A
A
Ishiko
A
A
D000368:Aged; D015614:Histiocytosis / Q000473:pathology / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000473:pathology / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014467:Ultraviolet Therapy / Q000379:methods*