We explored potential risk factors associated with Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) in a predominantly Hispanic population in Los Angeles. Sixty children with LCH (cases) and, 150 randomly selected patients (controls) were interviewed. There was no statistically significant difference between cases and controls in the following: Family history of thyroid disease, smokers in the family, maternal problems during pregnancy, and pesticide exposure. Cases were more likely to report a family history of cancer (OR 2.5), infection during infancy (OR 2.76), and parental occupational exposure to metal, granites, or wood dust (OR 2.48). Pediatr Blood Cancer 2012; 59: 1324–1326. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

<p>An 11-year-old boy presented to the emergency department with a 9-day history of fever to 104.5&deg; F (40.2&deg; C) and a 2-day history of a non-pruritic rash that began on his trunk and spread to all four extremities. The rash was most prominent when he was febrile. He complained of headaches, myalgias, and joint pain, which also worsened with his fevers. After 2 days of fever, before the onset of his rash, he was evaluated and diagnosed with a viral illness and sent home with no further workup or treatment. Over the preceding few weeks, he reported being exposed to stray cats, turtles, and a rat infestation in his backyard. He has a history of bipolar disorder, seizures, and hypothyroidism, for which he takes lithium, levetiracetam, and levothyroxine sodium, respectively.</p>