A Case of Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis Caused by Human Herpesvirus 6B

Abstract

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a severe inflammatory response syndrome. Common infectious triggers include Epstein Barr virus, cytomegalovirus, bacteria, and other pathogens. We report a case of HLH caused by human herpesvirus-6 (HHV-6) in a pediatric patient. Based on the HLH-2004 diagnostic criteria, the patient fulfilled 5 of 8 criteria, establishing a definitive diagnosis. HHV-6-associated HLH is rarely reported in the literature. The etiological diagnosis was confirmed through metagenomic next - generation sequencing, highlighting its utility in identifying underlying causes of HLH when the etiology remains unknown.