Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease: evaluation of prognostic factors and analysis of pathologic findings

Conclusion: In Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease (KFD), a low ratio of blastic cells (<70%) in lymph node specimens and absence of atypical lymphocytes in peripheral blood are predictive of a protracted clinical course. Objectives: Since KFD is a self-limiting disorder that does not require any specific management, prognostic factors have received little attention. The present study identified clinical and pathological factors that may affect the period from onset to cure of KFD. Methods: This retrospective study investigated 43 KFD patients who underwent lymph node biopsy diagnosed by immunohistochemical staining at Okayama University Hospital and Okayama Medical Center from January 2001 to December 2013. Results: Mean total period from onset to cure was 6 months (median =9.4 months; range =1–37 months). Low ratios of blastic cell proliferation area (<70%) in lymph node specimens (p = 0.011) and absence of atypical lymphocytes in peripheral blood (p = 0.026) were associated with a relatively long duration of KFD.