New langerhans-cell histiocytosis data have been reported by scientists at University of Iowa.

Women’s Health Weekly August 14, 2008 “Vulvar presentation of Langerhans’ cell histiocytosis (histiocytosis X) is rare. Symptoms and signs at the time of presentation can include pruritus, pain, dyspareunia, burning, discharge and presence of a discrete lesion and/or generalized ulceration,” scientists in the United States report (see also Langerhans-Cell Histiocytosis). see here langerhans cell histiocytosis

“Once a diagnosis of Langerhans’ cell histiocytosis is made, there is no formal treatment protocol. This report highlights 2 clinical cases diagnosed and treated at a tertiary care center CASES: We report the case histories of 2 women who presented to the Vulva/Vaginal Disease Clinic at the University of Iowa. The first patient, a 76-year-old woman, had a 1 -year history of vulvar pruritus. The second patient, a 39-year-old woman, had a 3-month history of a clitoral growth. Presentation of Langerhans’ cell histiocytosis as a vulvar primary condition is rare and probably underdiagnosed as its clinical presentation can vary. Such patients often have been treated for recurrent yeast or presumed herpes simplex virus infections,” wrote D. Elas and colleagues, University of Iowa. go to web site langerhans cell histiocytosis

The researchers concluded: “Langerhans’ cell histiocytosis should be considered as a differential diagnosis in females who present with chronic pruritus, pain, ulcerations or intermittent rashes.” Elas and colleagues published their study in the Journal of Reproductive Medicine (Langerhans’ cell histiocytosis of the vulva – The Iowa experience. Journal of Reproductive Medicine, 2008;53(6):417-419).

For additional information, contact D. Elas, University of Iowa, Dept. of Obstetrics & Gynecology, 200 Hawkins Dr., Iowa City, IA 52242, USA.

The publisher’s contact information for the Journal of Reproductive Medicine is: Science Printers & Publ Inc., PO Drawer 12425 8342 Olive Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63132, USA.