Chronic eosinophilic pneumonia (Carrington's): a follow-up study

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Pathology

Background:

• Chronic eosinophilic pneumonia (CEP) is a subacute-to-chronic pulmonary disorder.
• It commonly affects nonatopic women, presenting with cough, fever, dyspnea, weight loss, and night sweats.

Observation:

• Typical chest X-rays reveal peripheral, non-migratory infiltrates.
• Histopathology shows eosinophilic infiltration in lung interstitium and alveolar spaces.
• Peripheral eosinophilia is present in most, but not all, cases.

Findings:

• A follow-up study of eight Mayo Clinic patients with CEP was conducted.
• Two patients continued corticosteroids for 5.5 and 8 years.
• Five patients discontinued corticosteroids after an average of 4 years.
• One patient never required corticosteroid treatment.

Implications:

• Chronic eosinophilic pneumonia demonstrates a generally favorable long-term prognosis.
• Corticosteroid treatment duration varies, with many patients achieving discontinuation.
• This study contributes to the classification of pulmonary infiltrates with eosinophilia.