Multicentric reticulohistiocytosis associated with ovarian cancer

Abstract

Multicentric reticulohistiocytosis (MR) is an uncommon disease characterized by joint and cutaneous manifestations. The diagnosis must be confirmed by histological evidence of typical histiocytes and multinucleated giant cells. Many conditions, including malignancy, have been described in association with MR. We herein report a female case of MR in whom partial improvement was obtained by steroid and low-dose methotrexate treatments. However, ovarian cancer was found and therefore a surgical resection and chemotherapy were performed. These treatments resulted in the complete resolution of the skin and joint symptoms. These findings support the close linkage between MR and malignancy and the efficacy of cytotoxic drugs for the treatment of MR.