Suspected mushroom worker’s lung – a case report from South Africa

Abstract

Mushroom worker’s lung (MWL) has been described in workers exposed to mushroom spores or to inhaled antigens (thermophilic actinomycetes) from compost. South Africa is listed as one of the biggest exporters of mushrooms worldwide, yet the incidence of MWL locally has not been documented. We highlight a case of a delayed presentation of suspected MWL owing to non-recognition of the condition and the subsequent improvement in symptoms upon avoidance of the offending antigen. A high index of suspicion is required to ensure that MWL, associated with significant morbidity, is not missed.