Abstract:
The human pulmonary system can be affected by a variety of
parasites. This review focuses on the most common
parasitic infestations involving the lung, except for
protozoon disease.
Recent findings
In many parasitic lung conditions, the clinical manifestations
and the imaging findings are non-specific and can make
diagnosis challenging. Hydatid disease and paragonimiasis
involve the lung directly. Chronic schistosomiasis can lead
to pulmonary hypertension. Strongyloides stercoralis
infestation is capable of transforming into a fulminant fatal
disease. In many types of nematode infestations, the
pulmonary phase can cause acute eosinophilic pneumonia.
Chest radiographs of patients with paragonimiasis and
dirofilariasis can cause diagnostic confusion. Cases of
tropical pulmonary eosinophilia typically present with
refractory bronchial asthma. Most of these diseases are
initially diagnosed by detecting eggs or larvae in stool,
sputum, pleural fluid or tissue, and are confirmed by
serologic testing. Cystic hydatid disease generally requires
surgical treatment, whereas almost all other parasitic lung
conditions can be treated medically.
Summary
Although most parasites that affect the lung are endemic to
tropical and subtropical regions, immigration and travel
practices have resulted in transfer of these diseases to
other areas. It is important for physicians to know the
epidemiologic characteristics, clinical presentations, and
treatments of choice for these conditions.
