Korean J Asthma Allergy Clin Immunol.  2005 Mar;25(1):64-68.

Two Cases of Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis Caused by Fungi in a Home Environment

Abstract

An episode of fever, cough, and dyspnea developed in two men from mould exposure in their home environment is evaluated. Bronchoalveolar lavage showed an increased lymphocyte count with reversed CD4+/CD8+ ratio. High resolution computed tomography showed diffuse ground glass appearance and tiny nodular infiltration in both lung field. To identify the causative agent, cultured aeromolds were collected by open-plate method at their home. In one case, Penicillium species were the predominant isolate. In another case, Alternaria species, Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus fumigatus were isolated. Their symptoms, abnormal finding of radiograph, and spirometric abnormalities disappeared after systemic glucocorticoid medication and avoidance of causative moulds. We should be aware that hypersensitivity pneumonitis may be caused by Penicillium species and Alternaria species, Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus fumigatus in a home environment.

MeSH Terms

Alternaria
Alveolitis, Extrinsic Allergic*
Aspergillus flavus
Aspergillus fumigatus
Bronchoalveolar Lavage
Cough
Dyspnea
Fever
Fungi*
Glass
Humans
Hypersensitivity*
Lung
Lymphocyte Count
Male
Penicillium