Bird Fancier’s Lung (BFL) is a type of hypersensitivity pneumonitis caused by inhaling organic dust from bird feathers, droppings, or dander. This condition triggers an immune response, leading to lung inflammation. Chronic exposure can cause scarring in the lungs, resulting in permanent damage.
Dr Sarat Kumar Behera, Senior Consultant Pulmonology and Critical Care, Manipal Hospital, Bhubaneshwar, says, “Urban wildlife, particularly birds, can have a significant impact on lung health, as seen in conditions like Bird Fancier’s Lung (BFL). In densely populated areas, increased exposure to bird droppings and feathers can lead to the inhalation of allergens that trigger immune responses. For sensitive individuals, this can cause inflammation in the lungs, resulting in hypersensitivity pneumonitis or BFL.”
With more people in cities raising birds as pets or encountering pigeons and other urban birds, the risk of developing lung-related issues increases, highlighting the need for awareness of the respiratory risks associated with urban wildlife exposure.
What is Bird Fancier’s Lung?
Dr Shivraj A L, Consultant, Pulmonology, Manipal Hospital, Varthur Road explains, “Hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP), often referred to as Bird Breeder’s Lung, is a common type of interstitial lung disease (ILD) in India. This condition involves inflammation of the lung’s small airways and air sacs (alveoli). HP arises from an immune response to inhaled organic dust, with key types including Bird Fancier’s Lung in individuals exposed to bird dropping and feathers or those working in poultry, Farmer’s Lung in individuals associated with farming and working in close contact with livestock, and Humidifier Lung – a common finding in individuals breathing under ill-maintained humidifiers or air-conditioners.”
Symptoms
Dr Behera adds, “The early signs of BFL include shortness of breath (dyspnea) and a dry cough. Symptoms often worsen with sudden physical exertion or exposure to temperature changes, and they may mimic asthma or other lung conditions like pulmonary embolism. Additional symptoms include chest pain, fever, chills, and a crackling sound in the chest.”
Individuals who are repeatedly exposed to bird proteins typically experience symptoms 4–8 hours after re-exposure. Chronic BFL, if left untreated, can lead to severe complications like weight loss, extreme fatigue, and pulmonary fibrosis. Pulmonary fibrosis is the most serious consequence, as it progressively reduces lung function and can lead to respiratory failure.
Causes
BFL is caused by inhaling allergens from birds, which trigger an immune response. These allergens can come from various bird species, including pigeons, parrots, chickens, and even feathers found in bedding. People at higher risk include bird breeders, pet store workers, and bird hobbyists.
Complications
The most severe complication of BFL is pulmonary fibrosis, which can worsen over time, leading to respiratory failure. In cases of acute respiratory failure, diffuse alveolar damage (DAD) may also occur.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Chest X-rays or CT scans typically reveal lung changes, such as a “ground glass” or “mosaic” pattern. “Diagnosis often involves a combination of clinical history, allergy testing, imaging, and pulmonary function tests, while treatment primarily focuses on avoiding exposure to the offending allergens, medical management with steroids and anti-fibrotic medicines, measures to maintain oxygen saturation, and lung transplant for severe cases,” explains Dr Shivraj A L.
“Treatment involves avoiding exposure to bird proteins and using corticosteroids like prednisone to reduce inflammation. In advanced cases of Bird Fancier’s Lung, oxygen support may be necessary to maintain oxygen saturation at 92% or higher, ensuring adequate oxygen supply to the body’s tissues,” shares Dr Behera.
Recognizing BFL early and taking preventive steps is crucial to prevent serious complications and improve quality of life.
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