CD38high/HLA-DR+ CD8+ T cells as potential biomarker of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis secondary to visceral Leishmania infection

Leishmaniasis is a cause of infection associated with hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH). The measurement of the CD8(+) CD38(high)/HLA-DR+ T cells in children presenting with acute onset of shock and multisystem organ failure represents an important parameter to distinguish HLH from sepsis or healthy control. Conclusion: We report a case series of 4 Italian children suffering from HLH secondary to visceral Leishmaniasis in which the lymphocyte subset assay suggests a potential role of CD38(high)/HLA-DR+ CD8(+) T cells as HLH diagnostic biomarkers.

Automated summary

Leishmaniasis is linked to HLH, and the measurement of CD8(+) CD38(high)/HLA-DR+ T cells is crucial in distinguishing HLH from sepsis or healthy individuals in children presenting with shock and organ failure.