Loeffler's syndrome
Last reviewed 01/2018
Loeffler's syndrome is a transient pulmonary reaction with nodular or reticular shadowing (diffuse, fanshaped shadowing) on chest radiology and eosinophilia. It must be contrasted with the similar but chronic clinical picture of allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis.
It is probably the result of a transient allergic reaction in the alveoli. Ascaris lumbricoides, other parasites, and a range of drugs have been implicated.
The patient presents with a general slight fever and cough that last for less than 2 weeks.
Treatment should aim to eradicate the parasite if it is present, or to stop the triggering drug. Otherwise, there is no specific treatment as the disease is self-limiting.