Langerhans cell histiocytosis history and symptoms

Overview
Features can be non-specific from generalized inflammatory response e.g fever, lethargy, weight loss or can be due to specific organ involvement.

History and Symptoms

 * Histiocytosis X often affects the whole body. A disease that affects the whole body is called a systemic disorder.


 * Symptoms can vary between children and adults, although there can be some overlap. Tumors in weight-bearing bones, such as the legs or spine, may cause the bones to fracture without apparent reason.


 * Symptoms in children may include:
 * Abdominal pain
 * Bone pain (possibly)
 * Delayed puberty
 * Dizziness
 * Ear drainage that continues long-term
 * Eyes that appear to stick out (protrude) more and more
 * Irritability
 * Failure to thrive
 * Fever
 * Frequent urination
 * Headache
 * Jaundice
 * Limping
 * Mental deterioration
 * Rash (petechiae or purpura)
 * Seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp
 * Seizures
 * Short stature
 * Swollen lymph glands
 * Thirst
 * Vomiting
 * Weight loss

Note: Children over 5 years old often have only bone involvement.


 * Symptoms in adults may include:
 * Bone pain
 * Chest pain
 * Cough
 * Fever
 * General discomfort, uneasiness, or ill feeling (malaise)
 * Increased amount of urine
 * Rash
 * Shortness of breath
 * Thirst and increased drinking of fluids
 * Weight loss