Chronic Eosinophilic Pneumonia: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment of This Rare Eosinophilic Lung Disease
Chronic Eosinophilic Pneumonia: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment of This Rare Eosinophilic Lung Disease Introduction Chronic Eosinophilic Pneumonia (CEP) is a rare yet clinically significant pulmonary condition, often associated with asthma and allergic rhinitis. Its presentation can mimic more common diseases, leading to diagnostic challenges. This column provides an in-depth review of CEP, including its etiology, pathophysiology, clinical and radiological features, treatment options, prognosis, and relevant visual cases. Etiology and Pathogenesis CEP is characterized by an abnormal accumulation of eosinophils in the lung interstitium and alveolar spaces. While the exact etiology remains unclear, it is often idiopathic. However, a strong correlation exists between CEP and atopic conditions, such as asthma and allergic rhinitis. Immunologic dysregulation, involving overproduction of interleukin-5 (IL-5) and eotaxins, contributes to eosinophilic infiltration and inflammat...