What is Extrinsic Allergic Alveolitis (Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis) ?

Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis
Extrinsic allergic alveolitis (synonym: hypersensitivity pneumonitis) describes an interstitial and bronchioloalveolar disease of the lungs caused by an immune mediated hypersensitivity response. It is associated with repeated exposure to a variety of inhaled organic dusts and reactive chemicals (allergy chemical), but only a proportion of exposed subjects become affected. Notable examples are farmers’ lung (due to actinomycetes contaminating farm produce) and bird fanciers’ lung (due to secreted avian antigens). The disease has considerable potential as a model of allergic lung disease, since the populations at risk can often be identified precisely, the relevant antigens can be purified, and the clinical and immunologic consequences of antigen exposure can be examined. (more…)

Occupational Asthma Caused by Work Related Environment

work related asthma
Do you have occupational asthma or the condition where your asthma is triggered or even worsen when you are in your office or job? You are not alone in this situation. More than 10 million workers are exposed to allergens agents in their work environment, based on data from the Occupational Safety & Health Administration. Occupational asthma or work asthma or workplace asthma related to job/work is about 15 % from all kind of asthma altogether. Are you one of them? (more…)