Case Report: Primary hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis with a homozygous PRF1 variant: a case suggesting early immunoporosis and an expanded phenotypic spectrum - Scorecard - MDSpire

Case Report: Primary hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis with a homozygous PRF1 variant: a case suggesting early immunoporosis and an expanded phenotypic spectrum

  • By

  • Eman T. Al-Antary

  • Avanti Gupte

  • Süreyya Savaşan

  • June 24, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Scorecard: Case Study: A Novel Homozygous PRF1 Mutation in Primary Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis Indicating Early Immunoporosis and Broadened Phenotypic Presentation

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
ConditionPrimary Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH)
Key MechanismsMutations in genes responsible for secretory lysosome-dependent exocytosis pathway leading to immune activation.
Target PopulationPediatric patients with familial HLH, particularly those of Middle Eastern descent.
Care SettingPediatric hematology/oncology

Key Highlights

  • Novel PRF1 mutation p.Y296C c.887 A>G identified in a pediatric patient.
  • Patient presented with fever, night sweats, and splenomegaly.
  • Diagnosis established based on HLH-2004 criteria and genetic findings.
  • Initial treatment with dexamethasone followed by modified HLH 2004 protocol.
  • Successful hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) with full donor chimerism.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

  • Diagnosis of HLH requires meeting five out of eight clinical and laboratory criteria or identification of a genetic mutation.

Management

  • Initial treatment with dexamethasone; subsequent management with HLH 2004 protocol including etoposide and cyclosporine.

Monitoring & Follow-up

  • Monitor for HLH flares and response to treatment, including blood counts and inflammatory markers.

Risks

  • Risk of HLH flare during steroid taper and complications from immunosuppression.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Pediatric patients with familial HLH and identified genetic mutations.

Combination therapy including prednisone, etoposide, and cyclosporine may be necessary for managing HLH flares.

Clinical Best Practices

  • Early genetic testing for suspected familial HLH cases.
  • Adherence to HLH-2004 treatment protocols for management.
  • Involvement of genetics team for comprehensive evaluation of patients with skeletal abnormalities.

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