Simple pulmonary eosinophilia (also known as Löffler syndrome) is a type of pulmonary eosinophilia that typically presents with transient radiographic infiltrates, minimal constitutional upset, and an elevated eosinophil count in peripheral blood.
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Pathology
Aetiology
The cause is not usually identified, but a number of allergens have been linked to the syndrome:
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parasites (ACRONYM: SANTA)
S: Strongyloides stercoralis;
A: Ancylostoma duodenale;
N: Necator americanucs;
T: Toxocara canis;
A: Ascaris lumbricoides (most common).
drugs (e.g. aspirin, penicillin)
Radiographic features
Plain radiograph/CT
There is often a fleeting, non-segmental air space opacification which may be unilateral or bilateral. Usually, has a predominantly peripheral distribution. Pleural effusions and lymphadenopathy are not features.
Treatment and prognosis
The condition is usually self-limiting and treated conservatively. Opacities typically resolve spontaneously within approximately a month 3,5.
Complications
A restrictive type cardiomyopathy can develop from endomyocardial fibrosis.
History and etymology
Named after a Swiss physician, Wilhelm Löffler (1887-1972) 2, who first described the case histories of patients with chest radiographic infiltrates in 1932.
Differential diagnosis
General imaging differential considerations include:
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