Non-Infectious Diseases Compatible With COVID-19 Pneumonia

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Infectious Diseases
• Radiology

Background:

• Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) diagnosis often relies on PCR and CT scans.
• Radiological findings in COVID-19 can mimic other pulmonary conditions.
• Computed tomography (CT) scans are vital for diagnosing COVID-19, but similar findings can be seen in other diseases.

Observation:

• A patient presented with symptoms and CT scan findings highly suggestive of COVID-19.
• Despite negative COVID-19 PCR tests, the patient was initially treated for COVID-19.
• Elevated eosinophil counts and specific radiological patterns were noted.

Findings:

• The patient's CT scan showed bilateral ground-glass opacities, characteristic of COVID-19.
• Repeated COVID-19 PCR tests were negative.
• High eosinophil count (2,850/mm³) and total Ig levels led to reconsidering the diagnosis.

Implications:

• Misdiagnosis can occur if clinicians overly focus on COVID-19, neglecting other conditions.
• Chronic eosinophilic pneumonia was diagnosed after excluding COVID-19 based on comprehensive evaluation.
• Thorough assessment of complete blood counts, including eosinophilia, is essential to avoid diagnostic errors.