Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 9, 2026

Imaging Features of Systemic Sclerosis-Associated Interstitial Lung Disease
Published on: June 16, 2020
Hypersensitivity pneumonitis as a cause of airway-centered interstitial fibrosis
Mark E Fenton1, Donald W Cockcroft, Joanne L Wright
1Division of Respirology, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada.
Background:
Airway-centered interstitial fibrosis (ACIF) has been postulated to be related to environmental exposures.
Objective:
To describe a patient with ACIF associated with hypersensitivity pneumonitis.
Methods:
We evaluated a patient with a 2-year history of progressive dyspnea and exercise intolerance. We performed computed tomography, pulmonary function tests, and skin prick tests.
Results:
The patient's computed tomogram suggested hypersensitivity pneumonitis. Pulmonary function testing demonstrated a restrictive pattern. Results of skin prick tests to chicken, goose, canary, and budgie were negative. However, serum precipitins were positive to serum from pigeon, goose, duck, and chicken feathers. The patient was diagnosed as having ACIF.
Conclusion:
We believe that ACIF may represent a final common pathway for lung injury due to environmental exposure.
Related Concept Videos
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease III: Chronic Bronchitis Features
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-II: Pathophysiology
Chronic Inflammation
Pneumonia I: Introduction
Pneumonia I: Introduction
Risk Factors
Various factors influence the likelihood of developing pneumonia. Age plays a crucial role, with infants, children under two, and individuals over 65 at increased risk due to their...
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease II: Emphysema
Asthma-II: Pathophysiology and Classification
Additionally, environmental and genetic factors play crucial roles in determining an individual's susceptibility to asthma and the severity of their condition.
Critical processes in asthma pathophysiology include:

