Pneumonia is the inflammation of the lungs. Eosinophilic pneumonia refers to the inflammation of the lungs as a response to antigens (substances that induce sensitivity or immune response). It is characterized by accumulation of eosinophils (a type of white blood cell) and fluid into the lung, conducting airways (bronchi and bronchioles), and alveoli (the terminal portion of the airways, in which oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged).
There are many reasons for inflammation of lungs. When inflammation takes place due to a foreign substance (antigen) resulting in accumulation of eosinophils (white blood cells) and fluid in lungs and other respiratory organs, the condition is referred to as Eosiophilic pneumonia.
Eosinophils are special white blood cells that help body fight against antigens or parasites that the body is trying to eliminate. In eosinophilic pneumonia, the accumulation of eosinophilis cells and fluids in lung tissue as well as in the various airway channels and tiny sacs within the lung tissue (where the oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged) causes swelling of lung tissues, inflammation and decreased breathing capacity.
Various symptoms and signs are associated with this condition and depend on severity of the condition. The most common symptoms include:
Cough that is not responding to antibiotic therapy
Difficult breathing
Exercise intolerance
Fever
Lack of appetite
Lethargy
Weight loss
Yellow or green pus in the nasal discharge
