Rosai-Dorfman disease presenting in the gastrointestinal tract.

Abstract

Rosai-Dorfman disease (RDD) rarely presents a diagnostic challenge. However, unusual sites of presentation can cause confusion. We present a case of RDD of the colon in a symptomatic 51-year-old woman. The gastrointestinal tract is the organ system least commonly affected by RDD, with only 11 cases reported. Most cases have been found incidentally or at autopsy. The widespread use of endoscopic procedures makes it more likely that this entity will be encountered. Most patients with gastrointestinal tract involvement have evidence of widespread extranodal disease and have a protracted clinical course.