Spontaneous Resolution of Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis in a Child Infected with Epstein–Barr Virus

Abstract

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a rare and complex disorder that involves numerous hematological and immunological reactions. These reactions, if left untreated, may lead to multiorgan failure and death. Corticosteroids are the mainstay of HLH therapy which may also comprise other chemotherapeutic or immunotherapy agents. The components of the 2004 HLH diagnostic criteria may intersect with several other conditions. In this report, we present the case of a 4-year-old boy who was diagnosed with Epstein–Barr virus-related infectious mononucleosis complicated by clinical and laboratory features consistent with HLH, which self-resolved completely without HLH-directed therapy.