Hypersensitivity pneumonitis recognised in a single pulmonary unit, between 2005 and 2015 - comparison with recently proposed diagnostic criteria.

Introduction: Hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) is the third most common interstitial lung disease after idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and nonspecific interstitial pneumonia. Pathogenesis of HP is related to repeated exposure to inhaled environmental antigens that sensitise the susceptible, genetically predisposed persons. The aim of the present retrospective study was to summarise the diagnostic methods used in consecutive patients with HP, recognised in a single pulmonary unit, between 2005 and 2015, and to compare them with current diagnostic criteria.