Farmer's Lung

Farmer's lung is hypersensitivity pneumonitis (extrinsic allergic alveolitis) from inhalation of moldy hay antigens (thermophilic actinomycetes), presenting with acute fever/cough/dyspnea 4-8 h after exposure, or chronic progressive fibrosis. Treatment: avoid moldy hay antigen; workplace dust control; systemic corticosteroids in severe acute/chronic; pulmonary rehab; oxygen; treat infection; early diagnosis prevents fibrosis.

Common Symptoms

Fever/cough/dyspnea 4-8h after moldy-hay exposure; chronic progressive fibrosis possible

Causes and Pathogenesis

Immune reaction to moldy-hay antigens causes hypersensitivity pneumonitis and interstitial granulomatous inflammation.

Treatment

Avoid antigen; workplace control; systemic steroids in severe/chronic; supportive care

Preventive Measures

Proper hay drying/storage; dust control; respiratory protection.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Pulmonology/Allergy/Occupational-medicine department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.