Eosinophilic pneumonia

Anatomy

The respiratory system consists of the respiratory tract and lungs. The respiratory tract is where the circulation of inhaled and exhaled air occurs. The lungs are a paired organ. There are left and right lungs, where gas exchange takes place, meaning oxygen from inhaled air enters the blood, and carbon dioxide is removed through them.

Description of the Disease

Eosinophilic pneumonia is a disease in which certain white blood (leukocyte) cells called eosinophils accumulate in the lungs. During the illness, the walls of the lung alveoli thicken, and in certain areas the lungs may “scar” (fibrosis develops). Thus, the function of the alveoli is disrupted, and oxygen is poorly absorbed.
The disease is rare. People of various ages can suffer from this condition, but the highest incidence is in the fifth decade of life.

Cause of the Disease

Eosinophilic pneumonia can arise from several factors. For instance, parasitic infections such as echinococcus, ascarids, and capnocytophaga may trigger the condition. Additionally, certain medications, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, nitrofurantoin, and ampicillin, can contribute to its development. Drug use, such as heroin and cocaine, or initial episodes of smoking, also play a role. However, in many cases, the cause of the disease remains unknown because the irritants that trigger the body’s immune response often remain unidentified.

Symptoms

The most common clinical symptoms of eosinophilic pneumonia include:
Cough,
Fever,
Increasing shortness of breath,
Increased sweating (usually at night).
The disease can have an acute or chronic course.

Diagnosis

Blood tests are performed (to determine an increase in leukocytes and eosinophils), chest X-rays (infiltrates may be detected), as well as changes identified through bronchoscopy and lung function tests.

Treatment

This disease is treated with glucocorticosteroids. Typically, the duration of medication spans several months, although treatment for chronic eosinophilic pneumonia can last up to a year or more. Usually, with proper use of medication, the condition improves, and recovery occurs.

Source | Author Doctor Nikas Samuolis, reviewed by Prof. Virginijus Šapoka | Vilnius University | Faculty of Medicine | Head of the Department of Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and Oncology