Eosinophilic lung diseases Home A-Z Health Information Health Library A-Z Eosinophilic Lung Diseases Overview Eosinophilic lung diseases comprise a diverse group of conditions, including acute and chronic eosinophilic pneumonia, Löffler Syndrome, allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, Hypereosinophilic Syndrome and eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis. These conditions are characterised by an abnormal accumulation of eosinophils in the lung tissues. Causes and Risk Factors Eosinophils, white blood cells involved in immune responses, particularly in allergies and parasite defence, can cause inflammation, tissue damage, and respiratory symptoms when present in large amounts in the lungs. Some causes include:InfectiousParasitic infections, such as Ascariasis and Strongyloidiasis, are the most common cause of eosinophilic pneumonia (EP) worldwide.Non-infectiousAllergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA)Medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antibiotics, and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)Inhaled toxins, such as chemical fumes, particulate metals, or dustSmoking, especially if you've recently changed your smoking habitsUnderlying conditions, such as cancer, autoimmune disease, or inflammatory disease Symptoms Common symptoms of eosinophilic lung diseases include persistent cough, dyspnoea (difficulty in breathing), chest pain, and wheezing. Patients may also experience non-specific symptoms, such as high fever, night sweats, weight loss, and fatigue. Extrapulmonary complications (i.e., complications involving organs other than the lung) can include gastrointestinal issues and peripheral neuropathy (a disease that damages the peripheral nervous system), necessitating a multi-systemic diagnostic approach with a high degree of clinical suspicion. Diagnosis Diagnosis of eosinophilic lung diseases typically involves imaging-based techniques like chest X-rays or CT scans to identify infiltration of substances, such as pus, blood or protein, into the lung alongside blood tests revealing elevated eosinophil counts. Clinical history review, skin testing for Aspergillus sensitivity, and measuring serum IgE levels are also important. Complex cases may require bone marrow biopsy or lung tissue biopsy for confirmation, guiding tailored treatment and management strategies. Treatment Eosinophilic lung disease treatment involves a comprehensive approach based on the specific condition and its severity.Initially, high-dose corticosteroids are administered intravenously to rapidly reduce inflammation and improve respiratory function, transitioning to oral steroids as symptoms improve for ongoing control.Long-term management often includes maintenance corticosteroid therapy to prevent relapses.Antifungal medications like itraconazole manage fungal growth, while immunosuppressive drugs such as hydroxyurea or interferon-alpha, and targeted biologic therapies like monoclonal antibodies (e.g., mepolizumab) effectively reduce eosinophil levels and manage symptoms. Severe cases may require stronger immunosuppressive agents like cyclophosphamide or azathioprine.