Hypersensitivity pneumonitis is also known as extrinsic allergic alveolitis. This is an inflammation of alveoli in the lungs. This condition is due to hypersensitivity to the inhaled organic dusts. People suffering with this are exposed to dust by the hobbies or occupations. In other words, body’s immune system responding to the small air-borne particles. These can be mold, fungi, inorganic matter or bacteria.
Hypersensitivity pneumonitis can be both acute and chronic.
- Acute hypersensitivity pneumonitis occurs 4 – 12 hours after exposure to the particles.
- Chronic Hypersensitivity pneumonitis is caused by lung scarring. This is a long term disorder.
Symptoms of Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis:
Hypersensitivity pneumonitis symptoms include:
- Acute Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis Symptoms:
These symptoms appear suddenly and include:- Breathlessness
- Cough
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Chills
- Body aches
- Chest tightness
If the person suffering from acute hypersensitivity pneumonitis comes out from antigen exposure, symptoms resolve within 24 – 48 hours. Person can be recovered completely.
- Chronic Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis:
Symptoms of chronic hypersensitivity pneumonitis include:- Cough
- Shortness of breath
These symptoms worsen when the patient is exposed to an antigen either at home, work or anywhere. These patients do not acute episodes.
Diagnosis for Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis:
Apart from physical examination, health care provider conducts the following tests.
- High Resolution Computed Tomography Scan
- Pulmonary function test
- Six minute walk test
- Blood tests
- Surgical lung biopsy
- Bronchoscopy
Treatments for Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis:
Treatment involves identifying and removing antigen which causes the condition. Taking anti-inflammatory medications also gives relief from the disease.
- Removing Antigen: If inhaled antigen is identified and removed, inflammation of lungs in acute hypersensitivity pneumonitis is reversible. If suffering from chronic hypersensitivity pneumonitis, inflammation persists even after removing antigen. If antigen is not recognized, one must change home or work environment.
- Medication Therapy: If the condition is not improved or worsen continuously, anti inflammatory drugs are recommended by the health care provider. Predisone is the most effective medication. Other medications like mycophenolate, cyclophosphamide or azathioprine are prescribed for people who cannot tolerate predisone.
