MR cholangiography in the diagnosis of sclerosing cholangitis in Langerhans' cell histiocytosis

Eur Radiol. 2001;11(12):2516-20. doi: 10.1007/s003300100835. Epub 2001 Mar 1.

Abstract

Langerhans' cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a disorder of histiocytic proliferation that primarily affects infants. Imaging findings of a rare case of lung and liver involvement in an adult are presented. High-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) of the lungs showed confluent thin-walled cystic air spaces compatible with advanced LCH. Liver CT and MRI revealed unspecific signs of fatty infiltration. Irregular widening of peripheral bile ducts was displayed in breath-hold MR cholangiography. This pattern is considered characteristic for sclerosing cholangitis and should support the diagnosis of LCH in case of concomitant cystic pulmonary disease, even in adult patients.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Bile Ducts / pathology
  • Cholangiography*
  • Cholangitis, Sclerosing / diagnosis*
  • Contrast Media
  • Gadolinium DTPA
  • Histiocytosis, Langerhans-Cell / diagnosis*
  • Humans
  • Liver / pathology
  • Liver Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Lung / pathology
  • Lung Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging*
  • Male
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed*

Substances

  • Contrast Media
  • Gadolinium DTPA