CASE REPORT
Lymphocyte variant hypereosinophilic syndrome with severe eosinophilic pneumonia treated with mepolizumab: a case report
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Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
Submission date: 2025-10-01
Acceptance date: 2025-10-27
Online publication date: 2026-03-13
Corresponding author
Hui Mao
Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
KEYWORDS
ABSTRACT
Lymphocyte variant hypereosinophilic syndrome (L-HES) is a rare disorder characterized by immunophenotypically abnormal T lymphocytes that produce excessive eosinophilopoietic cytokines, such as interleukin 5 (IL-5). Clinically, patients with L-HES can present with manifestations involving multiple organ systems, most commonly cutaneous lesions; however, isolated single-organ involvement excluding the skin is less common. The optimal treatment for L-HES remains poorly defined. Corticosteroids (CS) are often used as first-line therapy, while other agents – such as interferon (IFN-), anti-IL-5 monoclonal antibodies, cyclosporine, and mycophenolate – are also employed in steroid- refractory cases, although no standardized treatment consensus has been established.
Here, we report a rare case of L-HES presenting severe eosinophilic pneumonia (EP) as the sole manifestation. After experiencing relapses during treatment with CS and IFN-, the patient achieved a complete and favorable clinical response following initiation of low-dose mepolizumab – an anti-IL-5 monoclonal antibody – suggesting that mepolizumab may represent an effective therapeutic option for patients with L-HES complicated by EP.
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