Solitary Radiolucent Erdheim-chester Disease: A Case Report and Literature Review

Abstract

Background: Erdheim-chester disease (ECD) is a rare non-Langerhans histiocytosis of unknown etiology, which typically presents with bilateral symmetric osteosclerosis and multi-organ involvement. Lesions may be intraosseous or extraosseous and involve the heart, pulmonary system, CNS, and skin in order of decreasing likelihood. Objective: The objective of this study is to discuss a case of erdheim-chester disease and conduct a review of the literature. Case: We describe a rare case of erdheim-chester in an asymptomatic 37-year-old male who was diagnosed after suffering a right ulnar injury. Subsequent evaluation revealed a solitary radiolucent ulnar lesion without multi-system involvement. Results & Conclusion: The case is unique in its solitary distribution, lytic radiographic appearance, and asymptomatic presentation preceding pathologic fracture. This presentation may simulate multiple other bone lesions.