Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis Evaluation

What is the purpose of this test?

The Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis Evaluation is a specialized blood test that detects IgG antibodies to specific environmental allergens that may trigger hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP)—a lung condition caused by repeated exposure to certain airborne substances like molds, bacteria, and fungi. This immune system reaction leads to inflammation in the lungs, which can cause breathing problems and long-term lung damage if not identified and treated early.

This test helps healthcare providers determine whether a person has been exposed to and sensitized by one or more potential environmental antigens. By identifying the specific allergen responsible for the lung inflammation, the test allows patients and doctors to develop a plan to avoid future exposure and begin appropriate treatment. It is a valuable tool for diagnosing chronic respiratory illnesses related to occupational or environmental exposure.

The Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis Evaluation includes the following:

• Aspergillus fumigatus – A common mold found in soil and decaying vegetation; may trigger HP, especially in farmers and compost workers.
• Saccharopolyspora rectivirgula (S. rectivirgula) – A bacterium often found in moldy hay; a known cause of farmer’s lung disease.
• Thermoactinomyces candidus (T. candidus) – A thermophilic bacterium associated with organic dust exposure; can lead to HP in workers exposed to decaying plant materials.
• Thermoactinomyces sacchari (T. sacchari) – Another thermophilic species linked to moldy environments like sugarcane processing.
• Thermoactinomyces vulgaris (T. vulgaris) – Frequently found in moldy hay or compost; may provoke immune reactions in sensitive individuals.
• Saccharomonospora viridis – A thermophilic actinomycete found in plant materials; inhalation can trigger HP symptoms.
• Aureobasidium pullulans (m12) IgG – A yeast-like fungus found in damp indoor environments; associated with allergic lung conditions.
• Alternaria alternata (m6) IgG – A common mold found indoors and outdoors; can provoke immune-mediated lung inflammation.
• Cladosporium herbarum (m2) IgG – A widespread mold often found on decaying plants; known to cause allergic respiratory reactions.
• Penicillium notatum (m1) IgG – A mold found in indoor environments; can lead to respiratory issues in sensitized individuals.
• Phoma spp IgG – A genus of fungi found in water-damaged buildings; can trigger chronic lung inflammation in some people.
• Trichoderma viride (m15) IgG – A mold often found in soil and on decaying wood; inhalation may lead to immune-related lung disorders.

Who should get this test?

The Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis Evaluation may benefit:

• Individuals with chronic cough, shortness of breath, or wheezing not explained by other conditions.
• People working in environments with exposure to mold, hay, wood dust, or water-damaged buildings.
• Farmers, bird breeders, mushroom workers, and compost or sawmill workers.
• Individuals with suspected occupational or environmental lung disease.
• Patients with lung imaging findings consistent with interstitial lung disease (ILD).
• Those with a family or personal history of allergic or immune-mediated lung disorders.

When should I order the Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis Evaluation?

Individuals may consider ordering this test if they have symptoms or exposure concerns related to hypersensitivity pneumonitis.

Symptoms to consider:

• Persistent cough, chest tightness, or shortness of breath that worsens with exposure to certain environments (e.g., farms, basements, or moldy buildings).
• Flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, or muscle aches after exposure to dust, hay, or mold.
• Ongoing fatigue or low energy despite adequate rest.
• Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite.
• Progressive lung problems that do not improve with usual asthma or respiratory treatments.

If you experience these symptoms or suspect repeated exposure to environmental molds or bacteria, the Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis Evaluation can provide valuable information to help guide diagnosis, reduce further lung damage, and protect your respiratory health.