What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Histiocytic Necrotizing Lymphadenitis
• Kikuchi-Fujimoto Disease (KFD)
• Phagocytic Necrotizing Lymphadenitis

What is Kikuchi Disease? (Definition/Background Information)

• Kikuchi Disease is a rare, benign, and self-limited inflammatory condition that affects the lymph nodes. It mostly affects young adults, particularly women
• It was first described in Japan in 1972 by Kikuchi and Fujimoto and, therefore, is also known as Kikuchi-Fujimoto Disease (KFD). The risk factors and cause of Kikuchi Disease are presently unknown
• The signs and symptoms of Kikuchi Disease may include enlarged lymph nodes in the neck, fever, fatigue, and night sweats. In a majority of cases, no complications are noted
• Even though there is no specific treatment for Kikuchi Disease, symptomatic treatment using medications may be considered by the healthcare provider if needed. In most cases, the prognosis is generally good

Who gets Kikuchi Disease? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Kikuchi Disease is a rare condition mostly noted in young adults, although individuals of any age group may be affected
• Even though both males and females are affected, the condition is more commonly observed in women
• Presently, no racial or ethnic group preference is reported

What are the Risk Factors for Kikuchi Disease? (Predisposing Factors)

• Currently, there are no known risk factors for Kikuchi Disease

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Kikuchi Disease? (Etiology)

• Kikuchi Disease is a rare condition resulting in inflammation of the lymph nodes and is generally self-limited. The cause of development of the condition is presently unknown
• It is thought to be caused by a viral infection or an autoimmune reaction

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Kikuchi Disease?

The most common signs and symptoms of Kikuchi Disease include:

• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
• Fever and night sweats

Other presentations may include:

• Fatigue
• Joint pain
• Skin rash

Some people may experience weight loss and abdominal pain.

How is Kikuchi Disease Diagnosed?

A diagnosis of Kikuchi Disease may involve the following:

• Clinical examination and medical history evaluation
• Assessment of the presenting signs and symptoms
• Laboratory tests

However, the diagnosis of Kikuchi Disease is usually made based on a biopsy of an affected lymph node. The biopsy will show characteristic changes in the lymph node tissue such as necrosis and the presence of histiocytes.

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Kikuchi Disease?

Kikuchi Disease is usually a self-limited condition and does not typically cause any long-term complications. However, in rare cases, it can cause recurrent episodes of lymphadenitis or may be associated with other autoimmune diseases.

How is Kikuchi Disease Treated?

• There is no specific treatment for Kikuchi Disease, and the disease usually resolves on its own within a few months
• The treatment is generally aimed at relieving the symptoms, such as fever and pain, with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroids

How can Kikuchi Disease be Prevented?

Currently, there are no available measures to prevent Kikuchi Disease.

What is the Prognosis of Kikuchi Disease? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis for Kikuchi Disease is generally good, with most people recovering completely within a few months
• However, in rare cases, the disease may recur or be associated with other autoimmune diseases

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Kikuchi Disease:

The following link is a useful resource for information on other rare conditions on DoveMed:

https://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/rare-disorders/