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Updated: Jul 15, 2026
04:44
Imaging Features of Systemic Sclerosis-Associated Interstitial Lung Disease
Published on: June 16, 2020
Eosinophilic lung diseases: a clinical, radiologic, and pathologic overview
Yeon Joo Jeong1, Kun-Il Kim, Im Jeong Seo
1Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Pusan National University Hospital, Pusan National University School of Medicine and Medical Research Institute, 1-10, Ami-Dong, Seo-gu, Pusan 602-739, Korea. lunar9052@hanmail.net
Summary
Eosinophilic lung diseases encompass various conditions characterized by eosinophil buildup. Chest CT imaging is crucial for diagnosing these diverse pulmonary disorders, aiding in differentiating between types like simple pulmonary eosinophilia and chronic eosinophilic pneumonia.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Radiology
- Pathology
Background:
- Eosinophilic lung diseases (ELDs) are a varied group of pulmonary conditions linked to eosinophilia.
- They are categorized by cause: unknown (e.g., simple pulmonary eosinophilia [SPE], acute eosinophilic pneumonia [AEP], chronic eosinophilic pneumonia [CEP], idiopathic hypereosinophilic syndrome [IHS]), known (e.g., allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis [ABPA], bronchocentric granulomatosis [BG], parasitic infections, drug reactions), and eosinophilic vasculitis (e.g., Churg-Strauss syndrome).
Observation:
- Peripheral blood and bronchoalveolar lavage eosinophil counts are key diagnostic indicators.
- Chest computed tomography (CT) offers more detailed patterns of lung abnormalities than conventional radiography.
Findings:
- CT findings vary by ELD type: SPE/IHS show nodules with ground-glass halos; AEP mimics pulmonary edema; CEP presents with peripheral consolidations.
- ABPA is associated with central bronchiectasis and mucoid impaction.
- BG shows focal masses or consolidations.
- Churg-Strauss syndrome commonly exhibits sub-pleural consolidations, nodules, and bronchial wall thickening.
Implications:
- Integrating clinical, radiological, and pathological data is vital for accurate diagnosis and differentiation of ELDs.
- Advanced CT imaging significantly improves the characterization and diagnosis of diverse eosinophilic lung diseases.
- Understanding specific CT patterns aids in timely and accurate diagnosis, guiding appropriate patient management.
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