Generalized eruptive histiocytoma: report of a case and electron microscopic finding of Michaelis–Gutmann bodies

A 67-year-old woman with generalized eruptive histiocytoma since 1973 and type IV hyperlipidaemia, which was corrected by diet alone, is presented. Michaelis-Gutmann (MG) bodies, usually characteristic but not specific for malakoplakia, were identified and confirmed ultrastructurally in one earlier biopsy but not in the subsequent skin lesions. This case differs clinically and pathologically from xanthomas secondary to type IV hyperlipidaemia, and malakoplakia of the skin. The pathogenesis of the MG bodies in this case is unknown.