Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis Screen Test
Understanding Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis Screening
Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis, also known as extrinsic allergic alveolitis, represents a significant immune-mediated lung disorder triggered by inhalation of various organic dusts and environmental antigens. Our comprehensive screening test serves as a crucial diagnostic tool for identifying specific antibody responses that confirm exposure to causative agents. This advanced immunodiffusion-based panel provides healthcare providers with definitive laboratory evidence to support clinical diagnosis and guide appropriate therapeutic interventions.
What Does This Test Measure and Detect?
The Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis Screen Test employs sophisticated immunodiffusion methodology to detect precipitating antibodies against six key environmental antigens known to trigger lung inflammation:
- Aspergillus fumigatus – Common mold found in decaying vegetation and indoor environments
- Micropolyspora faeni – Thermophilic bacterium prevalent in moldy hay and agricultural settings
- Pigeon serum – Proteins from bird droppings and feathers
- Streptomyces viridis – Actinomycete found in compost and soil
- Thermoactinomyces candidus – Heat-loving bacterium in humidifiers and heating systems
- Thermoactinomyces vulgaris – Common in moldy grain and agricultural dust
Who Should Consider This Screening Test?
Recognizing the Symptoms
Individuals experiencing the following symptoms, particularly when associated with specific environmental exposures, should discuss testing with their healthcare provider:
- Persistent dry cough or productive cough lasting weeks to months
- Progressive shortness of breath, especially with physical activity
- Recurrent fever and chills occurring 4-8 hours after exposure
- Unexplained fatigue and general malaise
- Chest tightness or discomfort
- Unexplained weight loss in chronic cases
- Crackling sounds (rales) heard during lung examination
High-Risk Exposure Groups
- Agricultural workers and farmers handling moldy hay or grain
- Bird owners, pigeon breeders, and poultry workers
- Individuals with water-damaged homes or workplaces
- HVAC technicians and maintenance workers
- Compost facility employees and gardeners
- People with hobbies involving organic materials (woodworking, mushroom cultivation)
Clinical Benefits of Early Detection
Timely diagnosis through our comprehensive screening offers multiple advantages for patient care and long-term health outcomes:
- Accurate Diagnosis: Differentiates hypersensitivity pneumonitis from asthma, COPD, and other respiratory conditions
- Targeted Treatment: Enables specific immunotherapy and corticosteroid regimens when indicated
- Exposure Identification: Helps pinpoint specific environmental triggers for avoidance strategies
- Disease Monitoring: Provides baseline for tracking treatment response and disease progression
- Prevention of Complications: Early intervention can prevent irreversible lung fibrosis and respiratory impairment
- Improved Quality of Life: Proper management reduces symptoms and enhances daily functioning
Understanding Your Test Results
Our laboratory provides comprehensive result interpretation to assist both patients and healthcare providers:
Positive Results
A positive test indicates detectable antibodies against one or more specific antigens, suggesting recent or ongoing exposure. The pattern of reactivity can help identify the most likely source of exposure. Positive results should be correlated with clinical symptoms and radiographic findings for definitive diagnosis.
Negative Results
Negative results suggest that hypersensitivity pneumonitis related to the tested antigens is less likely, though cannot completely rule out the condition. Some patients may have disease caused by antigens not included in the standard panel or may be tested during immunological tolerance phases.
Clinical Correlation
Results should always be interpreted by qualified healthcare professionals in the context of complete clinical presentation, including:
- Detailed exposure history and symptom timeline
- Physical examination findings
- Pulmonary function test results
- High-resolution CT scan of the chest
- Bronchoscopy and biopsy findings when available
Test Pricing and Availability
| Price Type | Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
| Discount Price | $600 |
| Regular Price | $800 |
Sample Requirements and Processing
- Sample Type: 2 mL (1 mL minimum) serum from 1 SST tube
- Shipping: Refrigerated or frozen transport required
- Mandatory Documentation: Duly filled Test Send Out Consent Form (Form 35)
- Turnaround Time: Sample by 7th of the month; Report available after 2-3 weeks
Nationwide Accessibility
GGC DNA maintains comprehensive diagnostic facilities across the United States, ensuring convenient access to advanced testing services. Our network includes specialized collection centers in major metropolitan areas including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, Phoenix, Philadelphia, San Antonio, San Diego, Dallas, and San Jose. Each location adheres to strict quality standards and provides professional phlebotomy services.
Take Control of Your Respiratory Health Today
Don’t let unexplained respiratory symptoms compromise your quality of life. Our Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis Screen Test provides the definitive diagnostic information needed to guide effective treatment and environmental management strategies. Early detection is crucial for preventing progressive lung damage and maintaining optimal respiratory function.
Ready to schedule your test? Contact our dedicated patient services team at +1(267) 388-9828 or book your appointment online. Our knowledgeable staff can answer your questions, assist with insurance inquiries, and help coordinate testing at your preferred location.
Take the first step toward accurate diagnosis and effective management of your respiratory health concerns. Call today to schedule your comprehensive hypersensitivity pneumonitis screening.
