Suggest Treatment For Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis

Posted on Tue, 9 Dec 2014

Question: What medication should be given for hypersensitivity pneumonitis. Not a hypochondriac. Have mold in the house I live in and have had this situation in the past. It was diagnosed simply as pneumonia but, the mold puts another spin on things. Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Prakash H Muddegowda (38 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Corticosteroids and avoiding antigen (mold)

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for asking.
I am Dr. Prakash HM and I will be answering your query.

My opinion is as follows:
1. Hypersensitivity pneumonitis present with dyspnea and cough secondary to inhalation of an antigen/ protein (presently mold), for which you were previously sensitized.

2. Increased antibodies (serum IgE level) against mold in serum will confirm the diagnosis of hypersensitivity pneumonitis. Also eosinophilia in blood is going to be seen.

3. Bronchoalevolar lavage to demonstrate >30% lymphocytosis or High resolution computed tomogram (HRCT) showing significant opacities are gold standard investigations.

4. It is usually acute, but overtime, it can become chronic and lead on to end stage lung disease.

5. Treatment involves
a. Avoiding antigen (mold)
b. Corticosteroid therapy
c. Oxygen therapy and pulmonary rehabilitation
d. Wearing a mask could help.

To start corticosteroids, you need to discuss with your doctor regarding dosage and get a prescription. Long term corticosteroids is not advisable as it could cause increased risk of infection, osteoporosis, etc.

Hope it helps.
Any further queries, happy to help again.

Dr. Prakash HM

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Ashwin Bhandari