Cytological Features of Kikuchi-Fujimoto Disease: A Multicenter Study of 30 Cases.

BACKGROUND

Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease (KFD) is a frequently febrile, self-limited, subacute necrotizing lymphadenitis. It occurs predominantly in young females and is more common in Asia.

AIM

This study aims to characterize the cytomorphological spectrum of KFD through fine-needle aspiration (FNA) findings across multiple centers, highlight under-recognized diagnostic features, and refine cytologic differentials to improve diagnostic accuracy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study group comprised a multicenter study experience of 30 cases diagnosed as KFD on cytology or subsequent histology.

RESULTS

Cytomorphological features of 30 cases diagnosed as KFD on FNA smears were studied. Out of these 30 cases, spontaneous resolution occurred on 4 to 16 weeks of follow-up in 22 cases; in the remaining eight cases, cytologic diagnosis was confirmed on histology, supplemented by immunohistochemistry.

CONCLUSION

The cytological features of KFD pose diagnostic challenges, on account of its broad cytologic spectrum, though crescentic histiocytes are a constant feature. These cytological features must be interpreted in the appropriate clinical context.