17th February 2025

Loffler’s syndrome

Loffler’s syndrome is a type of eosinophilic pneumonia whereby eosinophils migrate into the pulmonary tissue following transmission of parasitic larvae into the lung. The most common cause is the parasitic infection of Ascaris lumbricoides.

Its most distinguishing features are eosinophilia and parasites grown on sputum and stool culture, but this can be delayed.

Treatment is with antihelminthic agents such as albendazole. Steroids may help with the pulmonary hypersensitivity reactions.