Unusual causes of haemophagocytic syndrome

Abstract EN

Haemophagocytic syndrome is rare, often fatal clinical disorder in which release of inflammatory cytokines from macrophages results in marked haemophagocytosis.

We are presenting two unusual cases of adults with haemophagocytic syndrome.

● The first case is 30-year-old Saudi patient who had pulmonary tuberculosis associated with haemophagocytic syndrome.

● The second case is 34-year-old Sudanese woman who presented with multiple skin nodules and fever.

Re-evaluation of her skin biopsy revealed panniculitic T-cell lymphoma.

Mortality is reported to be high in both situations; however, these two cases were successfully treated and followed up for about 18 months.

The treatment of haemophagocytic syndrome is directed at the underlying cause.