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.