Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis: An unusual presentation of disseminated tuberculosis: A case report and literature review

BACKGROUND: Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is an aggressive and life-threatening syndrome associated with cytokine storm. Here, we present a patient with acquired HLH associated with Mycobacterial tuberculosis infection. CASE PRESENTATION: We report a 66-year-old hypertensive and diabetic male patient who presented with four days history of fever and abdominal pain. Denied history of cough and weight loss. Laboratory investigation showed: elevated ferritin, C-reactive protein, and triglyceride. Bone marrow examination showed > 50% hemophagocytosis (RBCs and platelets ingested by macrophages), positive acid-fast bacillus for Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacilli, and no evidence of malignancy. Complete blood count showed anemia and thrombocytopenia. The patient fulfilled six out of eight clinical criterions of the acquired Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH). The patient was managed with anti-tuberculous medications with adjuvant steroid. On the subsequent days, the patient showed significant clinical improvement and discharged home. However, the patient passed away a week after home discharge. CONCLUSION: The present case highlights on the importance of early diagnosis and treatment of acquired HLH associated with tuberculous infection to improve the clinical outcome of the patient.