Hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) is an exposure-related interstitial lung disease that may progress to pulmonary fibrosis, resulting in impaired gas exchange, dyspnea, and reduced functional capacity. Pulmonary rehabilitation is an established supportive intervention in interstitial lung disease; however, evidence for adjunct biophysical modalities such as Transfer of Energy Capacitive and Resistive (TECAR) radiofrequency therapy in HP is lacking. A 61-year-old female with hypersensitivity pneumonitis from domestic mold exposure completed an 8-week rehabilitation program (11 sessions) incorporating Transfer of Energy Capacitive and Resistive therapy, manual therapy, and breathing-based exercise. Each 30–45-minute session applied capacitive and resistive energy transfer to thoracic structures to promote tissue mobility and respiratory efficiency. Post-intervention pulmonary function tests showed increases in forced vital capacity (FVC +5%), total lung capacity (TLC +12%), diffusion capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO +22%), and residual volume (RV +39%). The patient reported reduced dyspnea, improved walking tolerance from 20 minutes, and independence in stair climbing and balance tasks. No adverse effects occurred. Observed pulmonary function changes were interpreted cautiously given known biological and technical variability, particularly for diffusion and lung volume measures. This case demonstrates the feasibility of integrating TECAR therapy within a comprehensive pulmonary rehabilitation program for fibrotic hypersensitivity pneumonitis, with concurrent functional gains and selected pulmonary function improvements. Findings are hypothesis-generating and cannot be attributed specifically to TECAR therapy. Controlled studies are needed to evaluate efficacy, mechanisms, and clinical relevance of TECAR-assisted rehabilitation in HP and other interstitial lung diseases. • TECAR was integrated into rehab for chronic fibrotic hypersensitivity pneumonitis. • Eight-week TECAR program improved key pulmonary function measures. • Patient showed better walking tolerance, balance, and stair independence. • TECAR caused no adverse effects and was well tolerated throughout care. • Findings support TECAR as a safe, non-invasive adjunct for HP rehabilitation. Summary of Research:This case report highlights the potential clinical benefit of Transfer of Energy Capacitive and Resistive (TECAR) radiofrequency therapy as a novel adjunct in the rehabilitation of patients with hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP). By demonstrating measurable improvements in pulmonary function and functional mobility, this study expands the understanding of non-pharmacologic, biophysical interventions in interstitial lung disease. These findings contribute to both clinical medicine, by proposing a safe, non-invasive adjunctive therapy for HP, and to basic science, by suggesting new pathways for exploring TECAR’s cellular and microcirculatory effects on pulmonary tissue repair and function.
Joseph Giacomo (Sun,) studied this question.