Löffler's syndrome

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Löffler's syndrome
Eosinophil, a type of white blood cell involved in Löffler's syndrome
Synonyms	Eosinophilic pneumonia
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Cough, fever, dyspnea (shortness of breath)
Complications	Respiratory failure
Onset	Acute
Duration	Usually self-limiting
Types	N/A
Causes	Parasitic infection, drug reaction, allergic reaction
Risks	Exposure to parasites, certain medications
Diagnosis	Chest X-ray, blood test showing eosinophilia
Differential diagnosis	Asthma, chronic eosinophilic pneumonia, hypereosinophilic syndrome
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Treat underlying cause, corticosteroids
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Generally good with treatment
Frequency	Rare
Deaths	N/A

Löffler's syndrome is a rare, transient respiratory illness characterized by lung inflammation and blood eosinophilia. It is named after Wilhelm Löffler, a German physician who first described the condition in 1932.

Causes

Löffler's syndrome is typically caused by a parasitic infection or an allergic reaction to certain drugs. The most common parasites associated with the condition include Ascaris lumbricoides, Strongyloides stercoralis, and Toxocara canis. Drugs that can cause Löffler's syndrome include penicillin, sulfa drugs, and NSAIDs.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Löffler's syndrome can vary, but they often include cough, shortness of breath, and wheezing. Other symptoms may include fever, chest pain, and weight loss. In some cases, patients may also develop a rash or other skin symptoms.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of Löffler's syndrome is typically based on the presence of characteristic symptoms, a history of exposure to a potential cause, and the finding of eosinophilia on a blood test. Imaging tests, such as a chest X-ray or CT scan, may also be used to help confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

The treatment of Löffler's syndrome depends on the underlying cause. If the condition is caused by a parasitic infection, antiparasitic drugs will be used. If it is caused by a drug reaction, the offending drug will be discontinued. In some cases, corticosteroids may also be used to help reduce inflammation and ease symptoms.

Prognosis

The prognosis for Löffler's syndrome is generally good. Most patients recover fully with appropriate treatment, although some may experience a recurrence of symptoms if they are re-exposed to the causative agent.

See also

• Eosinophilia
• Pulmonary eosinophilia
• Hypereosinophilic syndrome

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