Hypersensitivity pneumonitis physical examination

Overview
In general, the signs of acute, subacute and chronic forms of the disease are similar except patients with the chronic form may have clubbing, weight loss and muscle wasting.

Appearance of the Patient
Weight loss is present in the chronic form of the syndrome.

Vital Signs
Fever and tachypnea are often present.

Auscultation
Diffuse fine bibasilar crackles over lower lung fields often are present.

Extremities
Clubbing is observed in 50% of patients with the chronic form of the syndrome. Muscle wasting is also observed in the chronic form of the syndrome.

Other Diagnostic Studies
A test to assess for precipitating antibodies to the offending antigen will be positive.