Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis Panel

What is Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis test?

The Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis (HP) Panel detects specific IgG antibodies against common inhaled organic antigens. It helps identify sensitization due to exposure to these allergens that can trigger lung inflammation. Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis may present as acute, which is often reversible, or chronic, which can lead to permanent lung scarring and fibrosis.

Why consider Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis test?

• Helps corroborate exposure-sensitization in suspected Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis and supports an exposure-focused diagnosis and management plan, including avoidance and environmental remediation.
• Important caveat: a positive IgG indicates exposure/sensitization, not disease by itself; a negative result does not exclude HP because panels may not cover the true causative antigen and false negatives occur.

Who should get this Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis test?

• Individuals with subacute or chronic cough and dyspnea where Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis is suspected based on exposure history (birds, moldy environments, farming, hot tubs, humidifiers) and supportive imaging or PFT findings.
• Patients undergoing comprehensive Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis workup alongside HRCT, pulmonary function tests, and, when indicated, BAL lymphocytosis assessment and multidisciplinary

More Information about Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis test

Hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) is a type of allergy that causes inflammation in the small air sacs of your lungs (alveoli). Your symptoms can be immediate (acute) and go away quickly, or they may develop over time and become ongoing (chronic).  Chronic hypersensitivity pneumonitis is considered an interstitial lung disease. It can lead to lung scarring over time. Hypersensitivity pneumonitis causes a different immune reaction in your body than pollen or pet allergies. Unlike common allergies that cause hay fever and asthma, repeated exposure to allergens that cause Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis can lead to inflammation that can permanently damage your lungs.

Other Names: Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis Panel