Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis in Children

Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a nonmalignant disease characterized by all accumulation of dendritic cells. The disease can affect multiple organs, mid the clinical picture ranges from localized bone lesions or skin disease to multiple organ involvement and severe dysfunction. LCH most commonly affects children, with the peak incidence at 1 to 4 years of age. Prognosis is dependent on the number of organ systems involved, the degree to which normal function of the organ system is affected, and the rate of progression of the disease. In the majority of children. the disease issue resolving. For patients with multisystem disease, it is most commonly treated with steroids mid chemotherapeutic agents including prednisone, vinblastine, and mercaptopurine. Although, LCH is not considered a malignancy: v, the pediatric oncology nurse plays a key role ill disease management because these patients are often followed in in patient and outpatient oncology settings. This article provides nurses with insight about the pathology physiology and treatment modalities of LCH and prepares the nurse to provide confident comprehensive nursing care and to educate patients and families.