Respiratory allergy in agriculture

Abstract

Allergic respiratory diseases in farmers may be caused by exposures to many organic substances. Potentially inhalable particulate material of biologic origin are referred to collectively as organic dust, whose composition includes also molds and other microorganisms. Organic dust may evoke immuno-allergic reactions and cause rhinitis, asthma and extrinsic allergic alveolitis. The agricultural work environment represents a risk factor for these diseases, whose occupational origins are often overlooked by clinicians. Prevalence studies of respiratory allergic diseases among agricultural workers are advocated for the development of prevention strategies.