[Clinical evaluation of bird related hypersensitivity pneumonitis]

We retrospectively evaluated 8 cases of bird related hypersensitivity pneumonitis in Tenri hospital, all of whom underwent surgical lung biopsy. They had a history of contacting with birds and had serological studies using lymphocyte stimulation test to pigeon serum or antibody in serum and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid to pigeon dropping extracts yielded positive results. Computed tomography revealed a radiographic pattern unlike typical UIP. The result of pathological diagnosis of surgical lung biopsy was 'others' or NSIP pattern. Only one case had pathological findings of granuloma. Four cases had an improved or stable course only offer segregation from bird antigens. The other four cases needed corticosteroids and immunosuppressants, and two of the four cases had a progressive course and died of respiratory failure.