PGE2 and PGF2 alpha content in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid obtained from patients with eosinophilic pneumonia

Cell differential, prostaglandins (PGs) E2 and F2 alpha in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) in two patients with eosinophilic pneumonia were measured at different times in the course of the disease. Results showed markedly increased numbers of eosinophils and increased content of prostaglandin (PG) E2 in BALF obtained from the patients with eosinophilic pneumonia compared to that of normal volunteers. Interestingly, the increased content of PGE2 in BALF obtained from the patients reverted to normal range with corticosteroid treatment. This change in PGE2 content in BALF was accompanied by normalization of number and percentage of eosinophils in BALF. These findings indicated that PGE2 level in lower respiratory tract of patients with eosinophilic pneumonia may be related to an increased number of eosinophils.