Hypersensitivity pneumonitis
Hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) or extrinsic allergic alveolitis (EAA) is a caused by the repetitive inhalation of antigens from the environment in susceptible or sensitized people. Common antigens include molds, , bird droppings, bird feathers, agricultural dusts, bioaerosols and chemicals from paints or plastics. People affected by this type of lung (pneumonitis) are commonly exposed to the antigens by their occupations, hobbies, the environment and animals. The inhaled antigens produce a hypersensitivity reaction causing inflammation of the airspaces (alveoli) and small airways (bronchioles) within the lung. Hypersensitivity pneumonitis may eventually lead to interstitial lung disease.
Underlined words are explained — tap any of them.
Symptoms — what it feels like
- ·Dyspnea, fever, chills, cough, , weight loss
Causes — why it happens
- ·Variety of respirable antigens found in farming, food processing, handing of animals, and different occupational settings
How it's found
- ·Based on home and environmental exposure history taking followed by , spirometry, serology, bronchoscopy, and even lung .
Prevention
- ·Avoidance of antigen exposure
Treatment
- ·Avoidance of antigen exposure and sometimes
Complications
- · interstitial lung disease