eosinophilic pneumonia, inflammation of the lungs, characterized by infiltration of the alveoli with eosinophils and large mononuclear cells, pulmonary edema, fever, night sweats, cough, dyspnea, and weight loss. The disease may be caused by a hypersensitivity reaction to fungi spores; plant fibers; wood dust; bird droppings’ porcine, bovine, or piscine proteins; Bacillus subtilis enzyme in detergents; or certain drugs. Treatment consists of removal of the offending allergen and symptomatic and supportive therapy. Compare bronchopneumonia. See also asthmatic eosinophilia.
