Making an accurate diagnosis of chronic hypersensitivity pneumonitis

Can Respir J. 2014 November/December;21(6):371-370. doi: 10.1155/2014/541242. Epub 2014 Jun 13.

Abstract

Chronic hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) arises from repeated exposure to causative antigens. Although HP can be challenging to diagnose, it is important to differentiate from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and idiopathic nonspecific interstitial pneumonia. HP has a unique management approach and portends a unique prognosis. The present article summarizes the recent published literature on chronic HP and highlights the features that may be helpful in distinguishing it from other chronic interstitial lung diseases.