Christine Rauscher1, Allison Freeman2. 1. From the Department of Hospital Medicine, Allegheny Health Network, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. 2. Department of Allergy and Immunology, Allegheny Health Network, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Drug reactions have been associated with increased blood eosinophil levels. OBJECTIVE: To review clinical characteristics, the diagnosis, and the management of drug-induced eosinophilia. METHODS: Pertinent articles were selected and reviewed in relation to a case presentation of drug-induced eosinophilia. RESULTS: A case of asymptomatic eosinophilia in the setting of acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) use was presented, followed by discussion of the clinical characteristics, diagnosis, and management of drug-induced eosinophilia. Clinical pearls and pitfalls were reviewed for the practicing allergist, clinical immunologist, and fellow-in-training. CONCLUSION: Drug-induced eosinophilia is a diagnosis of exclusion. Although most cases of drug-induced eosinophilia are asymptomatic, one study showed an increased rate of hypersensitivity reactions in patients with higher eosinophil counts and earlier onset of eosinophilia.
BACKGROUND: Drug reactions have been associated with increased blood eosinophil levels. OBJECTIVE: To review clinical characteristics, the diagnosis, and the management of drug-induced eosinophilia. METHODS: Pertinent articles were selected and reviewed in relation to a case presentation of drug-induced eosinophilia. RESULTS: A case of asymptomatic eosinophilia in the setting of acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) use was presented, followed by discussion of the clinical characteristics, diagnosis, and management of drug-induced eosinophilia. Clinical pearls and pitfalls were reviewed for the practicing allergist, clinical immunologist, and fellow-in-training. CONCLUSION: Drug-induced eosinophilia is a diagnosis of exclusion. Although most cases of drug-induced eosinophilia are asymptomatic, one study showed an increased rate of hypersensitivity reactions in patients with higher eosinophil counts and earlier onset of eosinophilia.