Analysis of patients of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis secondary to infections

Abstract

Background: Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis is characterized by an unremitting activation of CD8+ T lymphocytes and macrophages that leads to organ damage.Methods: 40 patients diagnosed of having HLH secondary to infections admitted in the last 5 years in a tertiary hospital in Western Maharashtra, were studied retrospectively. The data was collected from the indoor patient records and files, detailed clinical profile and all relevant investigations were noted.Results: 40 cases of diagnosed HLH were studied. Age group of 30-40 years was involved more (25%), followed by age group of 61-70 years. The condition was more common in males (64%). Dengue was more common having more chance of secondary HLH. Early diagnosis and treatment was effective in 90% cases.Conclusions: HLH was seen to occur more in tropical fevers. The mortality rate was more in haematological malignancies. Early diagnosis and rapidly initiated treatment had a positive effect in decreasing the mortality rate of the condition.