Switzerland is renowned for its advanced medical technology and high standard of medical care. Langerhans cell histiocytosis in children is treated in the country’s specialist medical centres, staffed by experienced specialists.

Langerhans cell histiocytosis is a rare disease based on the proliferation of abnormal histiocytes and the formation of infiltrates in organs and tissues. Histiocytes are cells of the immune system. They are found in various parts of the body, mainly in the bone marrow, blood, skin, liver, lungs, lymph nodes and spleen. In Langerhans cell histiocytosis, these cells spread into tissues where they are not normally found, causing damage. The clinical picture ranges from localised forms to involvement of the whole body with a severe course. The disease is classified outside oncology, yet its most serious forms can behave like cancer, which is why it is treated at the best Swiss clinics specialising in paediatric oncology.

Symptoms of Langerhans cell histiocytosis

The clinical manifestations of Langerhans cell histiocytosis depend on how widespread the disease is and where it is located.

Possible signs and symptoms include:

  • Enlarged lymph nodes
  • Increased irritability
  • Reduced appetite
  • Bone pain, swollen joints
  • Skin rash (seborrhoeic dermatitis or nappy rash)
  • Ear discharge, hearing loss
  • Shortness of breath, persistent cough
  • Diarrhoea, jaundice (if the liver is affected)
  • Various hormonal disorders
  • Frequent urination and thirst — symptoms that signal the development of diabetes insipidus
  • Delayed growth and development
  • Delayed puberty

Diagnosing Langerhans cell histiocytosis at Swiss clinics

  • If a patient shows the symptoms listed above, the diagnosis should be confirmed. X-rays of the skull and lungs and a full blood count may be used for this, helping to determine how widespread the disease is. To confirm a diagnosis of Langerhans cell histiocytosis histologically, a biopsy of the affected areas is carried out in Switzerland, followed by morphological examination of the samples. Electron microscopy or immunocytochemical analysis is used to establish the nature of the cells.
  • To determine the extent of organ and system involvement, imaging techniques are traditionally used: computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. A biochemical blood test with liver function tests is carried out to detect or rule out liver involvement. A full blood count also helps to assess bone marrow function. A urine test is informative for detecting diabetes insipidus.

Treating Langerhans cell histiocytosis at Swiss clinics

  • At Swiss clinics, the treatment strategy for patients diagnosed with Langerhans cell histiocytosis depends directly on how widespread the disease is. If there is a single lesion, it may be sufficient to monitor the disease and use hormone therapy (glucocorticosteroids), local radiotherapy or surgical removal of the affected area. Where there are multiple skin lesions, ultraviolet therapy with photosensitisers is given in addition to medication (glucocorticosteroids), and chemotherapy drugs are also used.
  • For widespread forms of the disease with an unfavourable prognosis, various combinations of chemotherapy drugs are prescribed, usually together with steroids (glucocorticoids). Where the prognosis is unfavourable, a bone marrow transplant may be considered. If patients develop diabetes insipidus or growth delay, appropriate corrective hormone therapy is given. According to statistics, Langerhans cell histiocytosis is considered a disease with a good prognosis: more than 90% of patients are cured.

Treatment of LCH in Switzerland often takes a multidisciplinary approach involving doctors from various specialties, such as oncologists, haematologists, surgeons and other specialists. This ensures comprehensive treatment that takes into account the many aspects of the disease.

In the treatment of Langerhans cell histiocytosis, Swiss clinics pay close attention to each patient’s individual characteristics. Treatment plans are developed taking into account the severity of the disease, the patient’s age, any concomitant conditions and other factors.

We understand that treating children calls for particular attention and care, which is why our CorSwiss team provides comprehensive support and assistance to families throughout the entire course of treatment. We strive to make treatment as comfortable and safe as possible for every patient and to secure positive outcomes and prospects in overcoming the disease. We work with leading medical centres and clinics in Switzerland that specialise in the treatment of rare diseases, including Langerhans cell histiocytosis. Our CorSwiss team will help organise the entire process, from choosing the right clinic and doctor to preparing the necessary documents and arranging your visa and accommodation in the country of treatment.