A patient is exposed a second time to an antigen and subsequently seeks medical attention with sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, fever, chills, malaise, and a cough that may be productive of purulent sputum. What is the most likely cause of this pathology?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The symptoms of sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, fever, chills, malaise, and a cough that may be productive of purulent sputum are consistent with acute hypersensitivity pneumonitis. This is an immune-mediated condition caused by repeated exposure to an antigen. Acute anaphylactic shock would present with more severe symptoms such as swelling, hives, and difficulty breathing, and would occur immediately after exposure to the antigen. Allergic congestive heart failure is a chronic condition and would not present with sudden onset of symptoms. Bronchial asthma may present with shortness of breath and coughing, but fever, chills, and chest pain are not typical symptoms.

A Patient Is Exposed a Second Time to an Antigen