Pulmonary eosinophilia in France: possible toxocariasis
Sauvet, F.; Graffin, B.; Leyral, G.; Chemsi, M.; Paris, J-F.; Carli, P.
Presse Medicale 34(22 Pt 1): 1713-1714
2005
ISSN/ISBN: 0755-4982 PMID: 16374392 Document Number: 589920
Introduction: In metropolitan France (i.e. excluding the overseas departments and territories) pulmonary eosinophilia rarely has a parasitic cause except among subjects who have travelled to tropical areas. Case: A 19-year-old man who had not travelled abroad was hospitalized for incidentally discovered hypereosinophilia. The thoracic CT scan showed several hyperdense nodules that suggested bilateral interstitial alveolar lesions. Diagnosis was finally based on serological results positive for toxocariasis. A 14-day course of albendazole led to regression of the eosinophilia and of the radiographic images. Discussion: The frequency of toxocariasis or visceral larva migrans syndrome is probably underestimated. In adults, the symptoms can be atypical and possibly serious. Albendazole, for 14 days, is the reference treatment.