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Advanced Technical In the Industry Vocabulary Test

Langerhans cell histiocytosis

Pronunciation: LANG-er-hans cell his-tee-oh-sy-TOH-sis

Also written as: LCH — Langerhans cell histiocytosis

A disorder characterized by clonal proliferation of abnormal Langerhans cells affecting multiple organ systems.

Full Definition

Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a rare disorder involving the clonal proliferation and accumulation of abnormal Langerhans cells. In pediatric radiology, LCH presents with characteristic punched-out lytic bone lesions, often with a beveled edge appearance on skull radiographs. The condition can affect single or multiple organ systems, including bones, skin, lungs, and the central nervous system. Imaging findings vary by location but commonly include well-defined osteolytic lesions and characteristic patterns of organ involvement.

Usage

Usage note: Emphasize the characteristic appearance of bone lesions and multi-system involvement.

In Context

  • "Skull radiograph showed multiple punched-out lesions consistent with Langerhans cell histiocytosis." — Pediatric oncology workup

Also known as

LCH histiocytosis X

Don't confuse with

leukemia metastatic disease

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