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. 2004 Jan;61(1):e3.

Microbiological evolution of hay and relapse in patients with farmer's lung

S Roussel, G Reboux, J Dalphin, K Bardonnet, L Millon, R Piarroux
PMCID: PMC1757806  PMID: 14691284

Abstract

Aims: To investigate the conditions which favour the development of these microorganisms in hay and to analyse the relation between their concentration and the risk of occurrence of FLD.

Methods: Sequential microbiological analyses of each batch of hay stored in 10 farms at risk for FLD and a serological survey of 10 farmers (five with a past history of FLD).

Results: Exposure to microorganisms varied widely according to farms and periods. These microorganisms usually reached a peak in January and proliferated when harvesting conditions favoured excessive humidity in hay (rain during harvest, soil in the hay). Three of the five FLD patients presented with FLD respiratory recurrence and positive serology for A corymbifera during the winter (2000-01), after exposure to a significantly higher amount of A corymbifera than other farmers. Similar, but less significant, results were found for E amstelodami exposure, but not with W sebi.

Conclusions: Results contribute to confirming A corymbifera as a major aetiological agent of FLD in Doubs, and encourage further studies with a view to implementing preventive measures.

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Selected References

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