KIMURA’S DISEASE: A RARE CAUSE OF NECK SWELLING

KIMURA'S DISEASE is a rare condition and manifests as solitary or multiple subcutaneous nodules in the head and neck region, with eosinophilia and adenopathy. It is a benign chronic inflammatory disorder of unknown etiology. Histologically the lesions are characterized by hyperplastic lymphoid tissue, an inflammatory infiltrate rich in eosinophils and a proliferation of postcapillary venules. Hypereosinophilia in the blood and elevated levels of circulating IgE are found. The disease progresses slowly and is endemic to Asians. Treatment consists of surgical resection and administration of parenteral steroids in relapse cases. The prognosis is good and no malignant transformation has been ever observed.