Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis: An Occupational Hazard

Hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) is a rare pulmonary disease that occurs when the body has an exaggerated response to environmental allergens such as bacteria, fungi, animal and plant proteins and low molecular weight chemicals. The disease is divided into 3 categories: acute, subacute, and chronic. The work-up includes a thorough environmental and occupational history and a high clinical suspicion for HP. Prompt diagnosis is important and complete avoidance of the antagonizing antigen is essential to prevent irreversible lung damage.