Parasitic pneumonia

Parasitic pneumonia is a type of pneumonia caused by parasites. Pneumonia is an inflammatory condition of the lungs, most commonly caused by bacteria or viruses. Parasites are an uncommon cause of pneumonia, usually affecting immunocompromised individuals or those in underdeveloped countries. In developed countries, it is most common to see parasitic pneumonia in immigrants or recently returning travelers. In recent years, improved hygiene and global socioeconomic conditions have decreased the prevalence of parasitic pneumonias, but susceptibility is increasing due to increased travel, urbanization, and population of immunocompromised individuals.

This article specifically refers to parasitic pneumonia, and will not discuss other pulmonary conditions caused by parasites. For example, pulmonary malaria may present as acute respiratory distress syndrome but likely not pneumonia.