Recurrent Pulmonary Embolism and Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis Secondary to Aspergillus , in a Compost Plant Worker: Case Report and Review of Literature

We present a case of a 52-year-old man with recurrent venous thromboembolism with HP secondary to bioaerosol exposure in a compost plant. Biochemical evaluation found no evidence of underlying hypercoagulable state, with only remarkable findings of elevated levels of total serum immunoglobulin E and raisedAspergillus sp. IgG antibodies. The patient decided to change his working environment to one without exposure to compost or other fungal elements. His symptoms and pulmonary function tests gradually improved without any subsequent intervention. The patient chose against the advice of his care providers to discontinue warfarin anti-coagulation that had been recommended for lifelong duration after recurrent pulmonary thromboembolism. At a 4-year follow-up he has remained free of any further episodes of venous thromboembolic events without any anti-coagulation. Repeated imaging studies after cessation of exposure demonstrated clearance of multiple lung nodules and improvement in DLco.
Source: Lung - Category: Respiratory Medicine Source Type: research