Immune dysregulation syndrome associated with inborn errors of metabolism – hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis in the context of isovaleric acidemia: a case report - Report - MDSpire

Immune dysregulation syndrome associated with inborn errors of metabolism – hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis in the context of isovaleric acidemia: a case report

  • By

  • Frances Fuenmayor

  • Santiago Chávez

  • Sofía Ortíz

  • Marcelo Guerrero

  • Melanie Orellana

  • Diego Veintimilla

  • Inés Fernández

  • Leonel Meza

  • June 12, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Report: Immune Dysregulation Disorders Linked to Metabolic Inborn Errors

Overview

This report highlights a case of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) in an 18-month-old boy with isovaleric acidemia, illustrating the diagnostic challenges posed by metabolic disorders. The identification of a pathogenic variant in the IVD gene reframed the clinical understanding of HLH as a manifestation of an underlying metabolic condition.

Background

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a severe hyperinflammatory syndrome that can lead to multiorgan failure, particularly in pediatric patients. Secondary HLH can arise from various triggers, including infections and metabolic disorders, which are often overlooked. Understanding the interplay between metabolic inborn errors and HLH is crucial for timely diagnosis and management.

Data Highlights

No numerical data or trial data presented in the article.

Key Findings

  • An 18-month-old boy presented with HLH fulfilling seven of the eight HLH-2004 criteria.
  • Concurrent infections with adenovirus and parainfluenza virus type III were identified.
  • A pathogenic variant in the IVD gene confirmed the diagnosis of isovaleric acidemia.
  • HLH was reframed as a consequence of metabolic dysregulation rather than an isolated hyperinflammatory syndrome.
  • Recognition of metabolic disorders as triggers for HLH can shift diagnostic focus and management strategies.

Clinical Implications

Clinicians should consider metabolic inborn errors when diagnosing HLH, especially in pediatric patients. Early identification of underlying metabolic conditions can lead to tailored management strategies that address both the hyperinflammatory response and the metabolic disorder.

Conclusion

This case underscores the importance of recognizing metabolic disorders as potential triggers for HLH, which may alter the approach to diagnosis and treatment in pediatric critical care settings.

Related Resources & Content

  1. Frontiers in Pediatrics, 2026 -- Secondary hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis in pediatric patients: a single-center experience
  2. Frontiers in Immunology, 2026 -- Case Report: Genetically primed hyperinflammation: cytomegalovirus-triggered HLH-like syndrome in an adolescent with a gain-of-function STING1 (p.Arg281Trp) variant with novel autosomal dominant inheritance and atypical presentation
  3. Frontiers in Immunology, 2026 -- Sintilimab-associated hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis: a case report
  4. Pediatric hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis: current conceptualization, diagnosis, and treatment - PubMed
  5. Frontiers in Pediatrics — Case Report: Atypical hepatobiliary manifestations associated with erythrocyte membrane instability in glucose transporter type 1 deficiency syndrome
  6. Confirmed efficacy of etoposide and dexamethasone in HLH treatment: long-term results of the cooperative HLH-2004 study
  7. Pediatric hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis: current conceptualization, diagnosis, and treatment - PubMed

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