Pneumonitis

Definition

Pneumonitis is an inflammatory condition of the lung tissue often triggered by an immune response to allergens, infections, or irritants. It can lead to symptoms such as cough, fever, and difficulty breathing.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Pneumonitis can be caused by hypersensitivity reactions to inhaled organic dusts and chemicals.
2. Chronic exposure leading to pneumonitis can result in permanent lung damage and fibrosis.
3. Diagnosis often involves imaging studies like chest X-rays or CT scans to identify inflammation in the lungs.
4. Treatment typically includes corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and avoiding exposure to the triggering substance.
5. Pneumonitis differs from pneumonia; while both involve lung inflammation, pneumonia is specifically due to infection.

Review Questions

• What are common causes of pneumonitis?
• How does chronic exposure affect individuals with pneumonitis?
• What treatments are commonly used for managing pneumonitis?

Related terms

Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis: An immune system disorder affecting the lungs due to repeated inhalation of environmental antigens.

Interstitial Lung Disease: A group of diseases characterized by progressive scarring of lung tissue.

Corticosteroids:

A class of steroid hormones used to reduce inflammation in various conditions including pneumonitis.