Precipitins, Farmers Lung / Micropolysporum / Thermoactinomyces

Immunology

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Description

The moulds Micropolysporum faenii and Thermoactinomyces vulgaris, found in mouldy hay, are the main sensitising agents responsible for the form of extrinsic allergic alveolitis (EAA) known as Farmer's Lung. The presence of IgG precipitating antibodies in the serum of affected patients is regarded as an index of exposure to these organisms in response to the inhalation of mouldy hay dust [2]. These antibodies indicate a potential to develop EAA by immune complex production and deposition in the lung, but cell-mediated mechanisms are also important [1]. Titres are not useful for monitoring disease activity, but are evidence of continued exposure to antigen.

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Indications

Farmers lung, Mushroom workers lung, Extrinsic allergic alveolitis.

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Sample Type

2mL Serum (Gel 5mL Yellow tube). Requests from outside Sheffield: Transport at ambient temperature via Royal Mail or Courier.

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Reference Range

< 60 mg/L.Reference ranges established in house.

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Turnaround Time

Within 5 days

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Testing Frequency

Daily

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External Notes

The test should not be considered to be of diagnostic value in itself. Results should not be used in isolation but used in conjunction with the patient's symptoms, the patient's history and any other available data to produce an overall diagnosis.

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References

Chapel H, Heaney M and Misbah S. Essentials of Clinical Immunology. 5th Edition. 2006. [Ref 1]Mcsharry C, et al. Takes your breath away - the immunology of allergy alveolitis. Clin Exp Imm. 2002. 128:3-9. [Ref 2]

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Please note: the above information is subject to change and we endeavour to keep this website up to date wherever necessary.