Hypersensitivity pneumonitis and related conditions in the work environment. Immunol Allergy Clin North Am 2011 Nov;31(4):769-86, vii
Date
10/08/2011Pubmed ID
21978856DOI
10.1016/j.iac.2011.07.004Scopus ID
2-s2.0-80053472827 (requires institutional sign-in at Scopus site) 35 CitationsAbstract
Hypersensitivity pneumonitis can occur from a wide variety of occupational exposures. Although uncommon and difficult to recognize, through a detailed work exposure history, physical examination, radiography, pulmonary function studies, and selected laboratory studies using sera and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, workers can be identified early to effect avoidance of the antigen and institute pharmacologic therapy, if necessary. A lung biopsy may be necessary to rule out other interstitial lung diseases. Despite the varied organic antigen triggers, the presentation is similar with acute, subacute, or chronic forms. Systemic corticosteroids are the only reliable pharmacologic treatment but do not alter the long-term outcome.
Author List
Zacharisen MC, Fink JNMESH terms used to index this publication - Major topics in bold
Adrenal Cortex HormonesAerosols
Agriculture
Alveolitis, Extrinsic Allergic
Berylliosis
Biopsy
Diagnosis, Differential
Dust
Food Industry
Humans
Immunoglobulins
Industry
Lung
Lymphocytes
Macrophages, Alveolar
Occupational Exposure
Pneumoconiosis
Respiratory Function Tests
Severity of Illness Index
Silicosis
Workplace
