Irradiation of histiocytosis X confined to the oral mucosa

Background: Histiocytosis X is a rare granulomatous disease and it is still under debate as to whether this disease has to be counted among malignant tumors or benign immunologic Lesions. The typical Localization is confined to the hone. In rare cases histiocytosis X may be Localized in the orophary ngeal mucosa. Patients and Methods: We report about a case of a 75-year-old woman present ing with histiocytosis X Lesions solely Located in the oral cavity. A total dose of 19.5 Gy was administered without any side effects. Results: Two weeks after completion of irradiation a rapid regression of mu cosal ulcerations and improvement of symptoms occurred. In a follow-up of 2 4 months the patient is still in complete remission observed. Conclusion: Review of the Literature revealed only casuistic reports about solitary Lesions of histiocytosis X without bone involvement in the adultho od. External beam radiotherapy with total doses between 10 and 20 Gy seems to be effective for Local control of this disease.