Transient histiocytosis with striking phagocytosis of platelets, leukocytes, and erythrocytes

Abstract

Two cases of infection (miliary tuberculosis and a presumed viral infections) are described in which phagocytosis of erythrocytes, leukocytes, and platelets by reticuloendothelial cells was a prominent feature in bone marrow aspirates, associated with a clinical picture of fever, anemia, malaise, and hepatosplenomegaly. All these findings were "transient," and disappeared on treatment of the underlying infection.