Unique ultrasonographic findings of isolated IgG4-related lymphadenopathy

Abstract

IgG4-related disease is a rare immune-mediated disease that can involve many organs in the body. The lymph node is also where IgG4-related diseases occur, but its histological structure is different from that of other organs. For this reason, pathologists have difficulty diagnosing IgG4-related lymphadenopathy. If there were specific imaging findings of IgG4-related lymphadenopathy, it would be of great help to pathologists. A 64-year-old male visited our hospital with right ankle pain. On physical examination, the right lower extremity showed severe swelling with wound dehiscence, and infection was suspected. On CT (128-MDCT, Somatom Definition Flash, Siemens Healthcare) taken at the lower extremity, multiple enlarged lymph nodes were incidentally noted in the right inguinal area. On ultrasonography, a “starry night sign” resembling hyperechoic follicles was observed in the enlarged lymph node. A core needle biopsy was performed, and IgG4-related lymphadenopathy was diagnosed. Laboratory examination showed hypergammaglobulinemia with marked elevated serum IgG4, corresponding to IgG4-related disease. Chest and abdominal imaging were evaluated, but there was no extranodal IgG4-related disease. IgG4-related lymphadenopathy showed a very unique ultrasonography imaging finding. The cortex was filled with diffusely scattered hyperechoic foci and some bright foci gathered to form a follicle. This imaging finding may help diagnose IgG4-related lymphadenopathy.