Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis in a Radiologist: Case Report

Abstract

A 53-year-old female radiologist at a provincial hospital presented with a 7-month history of dyspnea and chronic cough. She was investigated and diagnosed with hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP). She has worked in the radiology department at this hospital for the past 26 years and moved to a new building for 3 years. The building had visible molds on the ceiling, wall, and air conditioners. Indoor air quality assessment in the x-ray room, ultrasound room, and the x-ray reading room showed high relative humidity, 70.6%, 67.2%, and 80.3%, respectively, compared to the Department of Health standard of 50-65% humidity. Mold cultures from the ceiling showed multiple species of molds. The patient did not smoke, have any hobbies, or have pets. Her house was not adjacent to a farm or garden, which could cause HP. The conclusion from Nine Steps in Occupational Diseases Diagnosis might be work-related hypersensitivity pneumonitis. The literature reviews found no confirmed hypersensitivity pneumonitis in healthcare workers, and this disease was rare in Thailand, so we report a case of hypersensitivity pneumonitis of a radiologist at a provincial hospital.