What is the recommended management for a patient with acute hypersensitivity pneumonitis?

The recommended management for acute hypersensitivity pneumonitis is the removal from antigen exposure. This condition is typically caused by inhaling organic dust or other antigens, leading to an inflammatory response in the lungs. The most effective way to manage the symptoms and prevent recurrence is to avoid further exposure to the offending antigen.

When a patient is removed from the source of their exposure, it often leads to a significant improvement in symptoms and lung function. This is critical because continuing exposure can lead to chronic inflammation and possible irreversible lung damage. It allows the body's immune response to settle and for the acute symptoms to resolve.

Other treatments, such as long-term steroid therapy, are generally not the first-line approach for acute episodes. While steroids may be used to manage severe cases or chronic symptoms, they are not essential in the initial management of acute hypersensitivity pneumonitis. Antibiotics are not indicated since the condition is not infectious, and bronchodilators may provide symptomatic relief but do not address the underlying cause of inflammation associated with antigen exposure. Therefore, focusing on alleviating the source of exposure is the cornerstone of management.