This invasion often leads to cell death either through direct killing by the virus or by self-destruction through apoptosis. Further damage to the lungs occurs when the immune system responds to the infection. White blood cells, in particular lymphocytes, are responsible for activating a variety of chemicals (cytokines) which cause leaking of fluid into the alveoli. The combination of cellular destruction and fluid-filled alveoli interrupts the transportation of oxygen into the bloodstream. In addition to the effects on the lungs, many viruses affect other organs and can lead to illness affecting many different bodily functions. Some viruses also make the body more susceptible to bacterial infection; for this reason, bacterial pneumonia often complicates viral pneumonia. Prevention
The best prevention against viral pneumonia is vaccination against influenza, chickenpox (varicella zoster), herpes zoster, measles, respiratory syncytial virus vaccine (RSV), rubella, and adenovirus vaccine. Besides vaccination there are no other ways to prevent viral pneumonia besides basic hygiene skills like covering the mouth when coughing or sneezing, staying home when sick, and washing your hands frequently. Treatment
In cases of viral pneumonia where influenza A or B are thought to be causative agents, patients who are seen within 48 hours of symptom onset may benefit from treatment with oseltamivir, or zanamivir, or peramivir. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) has no direct acting treatments, but ribavirin is indicated for severe cases. Ribavirin has also been known to be used as a treatment for Parainfluenza Virus, and Adenovirus.
Aschers syndrome, is a rare disorder first described in 1920. It is characterized by repeated episodes of lip and eyelid edema and occasionally euthyroid goiter. The syndrome generally occurs within the first 20 years of life. About 100 cases had been described by 1998. Signs and Symptoms
Blepharochalasis : Recurrent episodes of swelling cause stretching and atrophy of the upper eyelid skin. This results in the relaxation of the tarsal fold allowing tissue to slack over the palpebral fissure. In severe cases, the lower eyelid is also involved. Double Upper Lip : Swelling causes duplication between the inner and outer parts of the upper lip. Occasionally the lower lip is involved. Euthyroid Goiter : Occurs in 10% of cases. It is not usually associated with toxic symptoms. Goiter usually presents several years after initial eyelid and lip edema. Diagnosis
Treatment
Cosmetic surgery is generally the treatment of choice. References


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