KIKUCHI DISEASE IN ALPHA THALASSEMIA: CASE REPORT AND BRIEF REVIEW

Alpha thalassemia develops due to defects in the alpha gene. The clinical spectrum of alpha thalassemia ranges from asymptomatic cases to intrauterine demise. Kikuchi-Fujimoto Disease (KFD), also known as histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis, was first described in the 1970s. It presents with painful enlargement of the affected lymphoid tissue and fever. Its etiopathogenesis remains unclear, and diagnosis is based on morphology. KFD is a self-limiting benign disease. Although rare, its true prevalence is unknown. This study presents a case of Kikuchi disease in a patient with alpha thalassemia involving two alpha gene defects. The case was documented as no similar case was found in the literature, aiming to contribute to the knowledge of Kikuchi disease in alpha thalassemia patients.