Parasitic Diseases of the Lung

Parasitic infection is a major healthcare problem that affects millions of the world’s population. Immigration and global warming have changed the natural distribution of parasitic diseases far removed from endemic areas. The respiratory system can be affected by a broad spectrum of helminthic and protozoal parasitic diseases. The diagnosis of parasitic infection of the respiratory system may be delayed due to myriad clinical and radiographic presentations of parasitic diseases which make the diagnosis of these entities challenging. Pulmonologists need to be familiar with the epidemiology, clinical presentation, pathophysiology, and bronchoscopic findings of parasitic lung diseases, in order 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 central airways.