Paediatric Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis Disease: Long-Term Sequelae in the Hypothalamic Endocrine System

Abstract

Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a disorder of the mononuclear phagocyte system that can affect almost any organ and system. The most common central nervous system (CNS) manifestation in LCH is the infiltration of the hypothalamic-pituitary region leading to destruction and neurodegeneration of CNS tissue. The latter causes the most frequent endocrinological manifestation, that is, central diabetes insipidus (CDI), and less often anterior pituitary hormone deficiency (APD). The reported incidence of CDI is estimated between 11.5 and 24% and is considered a risk factor for neurodegenerative disease and APD. Three risk factors for development of CDI are recognized in the majority of the studies: (1) multisystem disease, (2) the occurrence of reactivations or active disease for a prolonged period, and (3) the presence of craniofacial bone lesions. Since CDI may occur as the first manifestation of LCH, differential diagnosis of malignant diseases like germ cell tumours must be made. APD is almost always associated with CDI and can appear several years after the diagnosis of CDI. Growth hormone is the most commonly affected anterior pituitary hormone. Despite significant advances in the knowledge of LCH in recent years, little progress has been made in preventing long-term sequelae such as those affecting the hypothalamic-pituitary system.