Farmer’s lung precipitins
General information
These tests detect the presence of IgG antibodies to
Micropolysporium faeni and Thermoactinomyces
vulgaris (Farmer's lung precipitins).
Specimen transport: At room temperature
Repeat frequency: At significant change of
clinical symptoms
Special precautions: None
Laboratory information
Normal reference range:
- Micropolysporium faeni - 0 - 22 mg/L
- Thermoactinomyces vulgaris - 0 - 36 mg/L
Volume and sample type: 7ml clotted blood
Method: FEIA (Fluoroenzyme Immunoassay)
Turnaround time (calendar days from sample
receipt to authorised result): Median - 1, 95th percentile - 5
Clinical information
Indications for the test: Hypersensitivity to
Micropolysporium faeni is a common cause of Farmer's lung,
hypersensitivity pneumonitis occurring 12 to 24 hours after
exposure to mouldy hay.
Factors affecting the test: In some cases of
farmer's lung, hypersensitivity to other fungal species may be
implicated.
The absence of IgG to Micropolysporium faeni does not rule the
diagnosis out. These antibodies can be found in some healthy
individuals. The presence of these antibodies supports, but does
not confirm, a diagnosis of farmer's lung. There are numerous other
causes of hypersensitivity pneumonitis including other fungal
spores and occupational antigens. Please discuss with the
laboratory if these may be incriminated.
ICE reference: Farmers Lung Precipitins
(Last updated May 29th 2018)
