Parasites of the air passages.

Parasitic infestations affect millions of the world's population. Global immigration and climate change have led to changes in the natural distribution of parasitic diseases far removed from endemic areas. A broad spectrum of helminthic and protozoal parasitic diseases frequently affects the respiratory system. The wide varieties of clinical and radiographic presentations of parasitic diseases make the diagnosis of this entity challenging. Pulmonologists need to become familiar with the epidemiology, clinical presentation, pathophysiologic characteristics, and bronchoscopic findings to provide proper management in a timely fashion. This review provides a comprehensive view of both helminthic and protozoal parasitic diseases that affect the respiratory system, especially the airways.