Eosinophile Bronchopneumopathie des Hundes

Abstract

Eosinophilic bronchopneumopathy is characterised as an eosinophilic infiltration of the airways. Currently, a hypersensitivity reaction is considered to be the underlying cause of this disease. Affected dogs show coughing, dyspnoea and exercise intolerance. Nasal discharge can occur as well in cases with additional eosinophilic rhinitis. Peripheral blood eosinophilia is seen in 6o% of the affected dogs. The most frequently described radiographic pulmonary abnormality is a broncho-interstitial lung pattern. For a firm diagnosis, it is necessary to prove the present of eosinophilic inflammation in the lower airways and to exclude other causes of eosinophilic inflammation. A bronchoalveolar lavage or a bronchial biopsy can be used to prove the presence of eosinophilic inflammation. At present, the treatment of this condition mainly consists of oral or inhaled glucocorticoids.