ICON: Eosinophil Disorders

Eosinophil disorders and related syndromes are a heterogeneous group of conditions characterized by marked persistent blood eosinophilia and involvement of one or more organ systems. The hypereosinophilic (HE) state is defined by a persistent eosinophil count exceeding 1.5 × 109/L blood. Several different neoplastic, paraneoplastic, infectious, and allergic disorders may underlie HE. Eosinophil-induced organ damage with more or less typical symptoms may develop in these patients. The final diagnosis is based on clinical, molecular, and histopathologic criteria, and the presence of signs and symptoms indicative of HE-induced organ damage, the latter often manifesting as hypereosinophilic syndrome. The clinical course, prognosis, and response to certain drugs vary greatly among patients and among disease variants. During the last few years, several new markers and targets have been identified, improving diagnosis, prognostication, and therapy for patients with HE-related disorders. Moreover, several attempts have been made to establish robust disease-related criteria and a global classification for HE-related diseases. However, the pathogenesis and mechanisms of HE and of HE-induced organ damage are complex, and expert opinions remain divided.