1 INTRODUCTION
Kikuchi disease also known as Kikuchi -Fujimoto disease is a rare but
benign condition that presents commonly with cervical lymphadenopathy
and fever. It can be further accompanied by a rash, arthritis, fatigue,
hepatosplenomegaly, etc.1 It was first identified by
Japanese pathologists Kikuchi and Fujimoto independently in the year
1972. Since then, it has been diagnosed in all ages and ethnicities
around the world. However, it has been found to affect young people of
Asian origin more with slight female predominance according to most
research.2,3
The aetiology of Kikuchi disease is still unknown but two broad
theories: infectious and autoimmune have been formulated. As per
infectious both viral and bacterial agents have been considered as
possible triggers for the disease. Meanwhile, in the autoimmune
hypothesis, human leukocyte antigens (HLAs) class II alleles have been
identified in populations more likely to get this
disease4. Similarly, it has also been found in
patients with autoimmune diseases like systemic lupus erythematosus
(SLE), Wegener’s granulomatosis, Sjogren’s syndrome, Still’s disease,
rheumatoid arthritis, etc.5 Thus, autoimmune disease
may precede, coincide with, or follow a diagnosis of Kikuchi disease4.
Kikuchi disease is often misdiagnosed due to its rare nature and
similarity to other etiologies leading to incorrect management. Here, we
present a case of a 20-year female who had presented with cervical
lymphadenopathy. She was managed conservatively and on further workup, a
diagnosis of Kikuchi disease was made.