Abstract
Hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP), also known as extrinsic allergic alveolitis, is an inflammatory response to an inhaled antigen in a previously sensitized individual. Its acute form is defined by respiratory and systemic symptoms occurring upon contact with said antigen, and resolving in the following hours. This case report presents a 69-year-old man with complaint of daily fever, cough and dyspnea. Investigations revealed bibasilar infiltrates in the lungs on high-resolution computed tomography, alveolar lymphocytosis in the bronchoalveolar lavage, and restrictive pattern in pulmonary function testing. Fever persisted despite broad antibiotics coverage. HP was suspected, and his continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device was the most likely culprit. Swabs in the water tank turned out positive for Rhodotorula Minuta, a known antigen for HP. His symptoms and tests improved upon replacement of the device. This case strongly advocates for the integration of CPAP device as a causative agent of HP. It reinforces the need for proper care and cleaning of CPAP equipment.
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