What is exogenous allergic alveolitis?
Exogenous allergic alveolitis (hypersensitivity pneumonitis) is a lung disease characterized by allergic inflammation of the alveoli (air sacs). It is triggered by substances that enter the lungs through inhaled dust. Mold, bacteria, animal proteins, or chemicals are typical examples. These can trigger an allergic overreaction of the immune system when inhaled by the patient.
Exogenous allergic alveolitis is relatively rare and typically affects certain occupational groups: “farmer’s lung,” for example, is a form of exogenous allergic alveolitis caused by working with dried hay.
In addition to exogenous allergic alveolitis, there is also diffuse fibrosing alveolitis. In this case, however, the cause is unknown.
Symptoms and Diagnosis of Allergic Alveolitis
In acute cases, coughing, fever, and shortness of breath usually develop within 8 hours of exposure at the latest. The symptoms subside within hours or days if the patient is no longer exposed to the allergens.
If the patient continues to be exposed to the substances, the disease can become chronic and lead to pulmonary fibrosis.
In order for doctors to diagnose allergic alveolitis, all other possible causes must first be ruled out.
The doctor then performs an X-ray examination to detect signs of inflammation. A controlled inhalation of the antigens (provocation test) provides the patient with a definitive diagnosis.
Cough, shortness of breath, and fever are common symptoms of exogenous allergic alveolitis @ Tetiana /AdobeStock
Treatment of exogenous allergic alveolitis
The most important step after diagnosis is to avoid the triggering substances. Without avoidance, treatment is virtually impossible. If the condition is an occupational disease, patients must consider changing jobs. In particularly severe cases, doctors may prescribe cortisone for several months.
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