Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis (Allergic Lung Disease)
Description
Inflammation of the lungs caused by a continual allergic reaction in the lungs. The disease is caused by breathing in dust. The body reacts to microscopic particles in the dust causing a release of antibodies and these antibodies cause damage to the lungs. Fluid and white blood cells enter the breathing sacs in the lungs (alveoli) and produce symptoms that resemble an infection of lung (pneumonia). This disorder is more common in farmers and those that raise birds. Most patients recover completely after they remove themselves from the allergic stimulus.
Symptoms
Cough, fever, breathing problems, fatigue, chills, chest tightness. .
Tests
A history and physical exam will be done. A x-ray will be performed. A bronchoscopy or lung biopsy may be done to examine the lung tissue under a microscope. Blood test can help detect elevated antibodies but these elevations do not necessarily confirm the diagnosis.
- Antibody Tests
- Bronchoscopy
- X-Ray
Treatment
Therapy depends on identifying what is causing the allergic response and removing the patient from this exposure. Steroids may be used to speed up the recovery.
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