# Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis Secondary to Disseminated Histoplasmosis

**Authors:** Mackenzie Caruthers, Shaili Kothari, Conor Kelly, Kim M Jordan, Branden Luna

PMC · DOI: 10.7759/cureus.84241 · 2025-05-16

## TL;DR

This paper discusses a rare condition called hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) caused by a severe fungal infection called disseminated histoplasmosis.

## Contribution

The paper highlights the lack of clear treatment guidelines for HLH caused by disseminated histoplasmosis.

## Key findings

- HLH is a rare hyperinflammatory condition caused by immune system activation.
- There are no clear treatment guidelines for HLH associated with disseminated histoplasmosis.
- Further research is needed to determine the best treatment regimens for these cases.

## Abstract

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a rare hyperinflammatory condition resulting in erroneous activation of the immune system. Treatment is directed at the underlying pathology that prompts activation of the immune system and usually includes immunosuppressant therapy, including steroids, etoposide, or rituximab. However, the best treatment for patients with significant infection remains unclear. Few cases of HLH are associated with disseminated histoplasmosis, and there are no clear treatment guidelines in these cases. Due to the significant morbidity and mortality associated with HLH, further investigation is needed to identify the best treatment regimens.

## Linked entities

- **Diseases:** Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (MONDO:0015540)

## Full-text entities

- **Diseases:** infection (MESH:D007239), HLH (MESH:D051359), Disseminated Histoplasmosis (MESH:D006660), hyperinflammatory condition (MESH:D020763)
- **Chemicals:** rituximab (MESH:D000069283), etoposide (MESH:D005047), steroids (MESH:D013256)
- **Species:** Homo sapiens (human, species) [taxon 9606]

## Figures

1 figure with captions in the complete paper: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC12168652/full.md

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Source: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC12168652