Semin Respir Crit Care Med 2006; 27(2): 142-147
DOI: 10.1055/s-2006-939517
Copyright © 2006 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Acute Eosinophilic Pneumonia

James Allen1
  • 1Department of Clinical Internal Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
13 April 2006 (online)

ABSTRACT

Acute eosinophilic pneumonia is a sudden and severe febrile illness that can result in life-threatening respiratory failure. Because this disease can mimic other diseases causing acute respiratory failure, the diagnosis may be missed or delayed. It is clinically distinguishable from other pulmonary eosinophilic diseases and can be diagnosed with bronchoalveolar lavage. Treatment with corticosteroids results in rapid reversal of respiratory failure and complete recovery, generally without relapse. In some patients, acute eosinophilic pneumonia may be caused by drugs, tobacco smoke, or other inhaled substances; however, in the majority of patients, the condition is idiopathic.

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James Allen

M.D., Department of Clinical Internal Medicine

Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Ohio State University, Ste. 1103B, Tower Building, 1492 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43205

Email: James.Allen@osumc.edu

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