Sinus histiocytosis is an increase in benign histiocytes in lymph nodes, often associated with infections. Treatment depends on the underlying cause, while sinus histiocytosis with massive lymphadenopathy is a rare disease with no known cure.
Sinus histiocytosis, not to be confused with “sinus histiocytosis with massive lymphadenopathy,” is a medical term that describes an increase in benign histiocytes in the peripheral sinuses and medullary lymph nodes. Sinus histiocytosis is a common finding in lymph nodes. It is a benign symptom that is often associated with infections.
“Histiocytosis” refers to a class of conditions characterized by the excessive production and accumulation of histiocytes, which are a beneficial autoimmune macrophage released from littoral cells that line the inner endothelial wall of lymph nodes. Lymph nodes are small, hollow, ball-shaped organs that are distributed throughout the reticulated immune system of the human body. Within the lymph sinuses, immune cells such as histiocytes act as a filter or trap for foreign particles and pathogens. Inflammation of a lymph node is quite common, particularly when fighting an infection.
As mentioned, sinus histiocytosis is a symptom and treatment will depend on the underlying cause, in most cases, an infection. If it is caused by an infection, doctors will recommend the best treatment based on the pathogen, such as antibiotics.
Because of the similarity in name, sinus histiocytosis is sometimes confused with sinus histiocytosis with massive lymphadenopathy (SHML). Also called Rosai-Dorfman disease, it is a rare human disease of unknown cause. It is usually indicated by swelling of the lymph glands under the skin or in deep tissue. It predominantly affects young people, particularly during the first two decades of life. It is often benign although sometimes chronic and, in rarer cases, can metastasize to other parts of the body through the vessels of the lymphatic system. Since it was first identified in 1969, an effective cure has been elusive and most physicians recommend close clinical observation without any treatment due to the possibility of spontaneous self-healing.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
