Achievement of Clinical Remission in Life-Threatening Rosai-Dorfman Disease With Cladribine

Cureus. 2024 Nov 27;16(11):e74576. doi: 10.7759/cureus.74576. eCollection 2024 Nov.

Abstract

Rosai-Dorfman disease (RDD) is a rare proliferative histiocytic disorder characterized by sinus histiocytosis with massive lymphadenopathy, rarely presenting with severe and life-threatening extra-nodal features. The rarity of RDD, clinically variant phenotype, limited data, and lack of a current standardized management approach make treatment decisions difficult. Herein, we present a case of life-threatening, disseminated RDD with rare clinical features of recurrent pericardial effusion, bilateral pleural effusions, and abdominal tissue fibrosis successfully treated with six cycles of cladribine, achieving clinical remission. Compilation of positive outcomes is required to establish a uniform treatment approach.

Keywords: cladribine; extranodal sinus histiocytosis with massive lymphadenopathy; pericardial tamponde; pleural effusions; rosai–dorfman disease.

Publication types

  • Case Reports