Histiocytosis

Langerhan's cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a rare disorder that occurs in about one in 200,000 children and adults each year. The disease causes an abnormally high level of histiocyte cells, which are produced in bone marrow. These cells help fight bacteria and parasites and help with the production of antibodies.

Ordinarily, histiocyte cells are found in the skin, liver, lung, stomach, lymphatic glands, spleen, bones and parts of the brain. In histiocytosis, these cells reproduce excessively. Although the disease technically is not cancer, it behaves like cancer in its most serious form and is treated by cancer specialists.

Named after the doctor who first described the condition, the disease also is known as Histiocytosis-X, Eosinophilic granuloma, Hand-Schuller-Christian syndrome and Letterer-Siwe disease. Treatments include medication, chemotherapy and sometimes radiation.

For more information about treatments for histiocytosis or to make an appointment, please call:
Children's Cancer and Blood Disease Program (415) 476-3831

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Children's Hospital.
Last updated May 8, 2007