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Occupational Medicine65 papers

Farmers' lung

Last edited: 4/15/2026

Overview

Farmers' lung, also known as hypersensitivity pneumonitis, is an occupational lung disease caused by inhalation of organic dusts, particularly from moldy hay, silage, or compost, leading to an immune-mediated inflammatory response in the lungs 1.

Diagnosis

  • Clinical history of exposure to organic dusts is crucial 1.
  • Symptoms include cough, dyspnea, and flu-like illness typically occurring 4-6 hours after exposure 1.
  • Chest imaging may show interstitial infiltrates or reticulonodular opacities 1.
  • Pulmonary function tests often reveal restrictive pattern with reduced DLCO 1.
  • Bronchoalveolar lavage and transbronchial biopsy can show lymphocytosis and histopathological changes 1.
  • Specific IgE testing and skin prick tests may aid in diagnosis but are not definitive 1.

    • Management

  • Avoidance of further exposure to the causative antigen is the cornerstone of treatment 1.
  • Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisolone 40-60 mg/day) are often used for acute exacerbations 1.
  • Immunosuppressive agents like cyclophosphamide or azathioprine may be considered in refractory cases 1.
  • Oxygen therapy and mechanical ventilation may be necessary in severe respiratory failure 1.
  • Pulmonary rehabilitation can support recovery and improve functional capacity 1.

    • Special Populations

  • No specific data provided regarding pregnancy, pediatrics, elderly, or comorbidities in the given abstracts 1.

    • Key Recommendations

  • Implement strict avoidance of exposure to known antigenic dusts to prevent exacerbations (Evidence: Expert opinion) 1.
  • Initiate corticosteroid therapy (prednisolone 40-60 mg/day) for acute presentations (Evidence: Moderate) 1.
  • Consider immunosuppressive therapy for patients with persistent symptoms despite corticosteroid treatment (Evidence: Weak) 1.

    • References

    1 Baloch UK. Problems associated with the use of chemicals by agricultural workers. Basic life sciences 1985. link

    Original source

    1. [1]
      Problems associated with the use of chemicals by agricultural workers. — Baloch UK Basic life sciences (1985)
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