Hypersensitivity pneumonitis: evaluation and management.
Hypersensitivity pneumonitis consists of a group of diseases resulting from inhalation of organic particles causing an immunopathological reaction of the lungs in susceptible individuals. The diagnosis requires a detailed and careful history that would include social, environmental, and occupational status, pulmonary function tests, serum precipitins, bronchoalveolar lavage, imaging, and lung biopsy. Early recognition and avoidance of the causative agent is important although the use of corticosteroids hastens improvement of symptoms.
Paul
Lisa
L
Division of Pulmonary/Critical Care/Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA.
Lehrman
Stuart G
SG
Aronow
Wilbert S
WS
D000208:Acute Disease; D000542:Alveolitis, Extrinsic Allergic / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy; D001985:Bronchial Provocation Tests; D001992:Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid / Q000166:cytology; D002908:Chronic Disease; D006801:Humans; D007428:Intradermal Tests; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000517:prevention & control; D011233:Precipitin Tests; D013902:Radiography, Thoracic; D012129:Respiratory Function Tests; D012907:Smoking / Q000009:adverse effects