hypersensitivity pneumonitis
Pronunciation: hy-per-SEN-sih-TIV-ih-tee noo-muh-NY-tis
Also written as: HP — Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis
An immune-mediated inflammatory lung disease caused by repeated inhalation of antigenic organic particles or low-molecular-weight chemicals, occurring in susceptible children and adults.
Full Definition
Hypersensitivity pneumonitis (also called extrinsic allergic alveolitis in British usage) results from a combined Type III and Type IV hypersensitivity reaction in the lung parenchyma. In children, common triggers include avian antigens ('bird fancier's lung'), mould, and hot-tub exposures. It is classified as acute, subacute, or chronic based on clinical course. In editorial work, UK sources may use 'extrinsic allergic alveolitis'; authors should be queried for consistency with the journal's regional style. The abbreviation HP is acceptable on second reference in technical documents.
Usage
Usage note: US publications favour 'hypersensitivity pneumonitis'; UK/European publications may prefer 'extrinsic allergic alveolitis'. Flag discrepancies for author/editor alignment.
In Context
- "A detailed exposure history is essential when hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) is suspected in a child with progressive respiratory symptoms." — Paediatric pulmonology clinical review
- "Bronchoalveolar lavage showing marked lymphocytosis supported the diagnosis of subacute hypersensitivity pneumonitis." — Diagnostic case report