aspergillosis

What is Aspergillosis?

Aspergillosis is a group of illnesses caused by Aspergillus fungi, which most commonly affects people with weakened immune systems or lung conditions [1]. It is an opportunistic infection that usually affects the lower respiratory tract and is caused by inhaling spores of the filamentous fungus Aspergillus [7].

Types of Aspergillosis

There are several types of aspergillosis, including:

• Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis: This type of aspergillosis is an invasive pulmonary infection that usually affects people with weakened immune systems, accompanied by a fever, cough, and chest pain [4].
• Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis (ABPA): ABPA has symptoms similar to asthma, including coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath [6].
• Aspergilloma: This is a growth or fungus ball that develops in an area of past lung disease or lung scarring such as tuberculosis or lung abscess [2].

Causes and Risk Factors

Aspergillosis is caused by inhaling spores of Aspergillus, which can be found in soil, plants, and rotting material. People with weakened immune systems, lung conditions, or those who are immunocompromised are at a higher risk of developing aspergillosis [9].

Symptoms

The symptoms of aspergillosis can vary depending on the type of infection, but common symptoms include:

• Fever
• Coughing
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing

It's worth noting that most people do not get sick from Aspergillus, and only those with weakened immune systems or lung conditions are at risk [3].

References

[1] Context result 1: Aspergillosis is a group of illnesses caused by Aspergillus fungi. [2] Context result 2: Aspergilloma is a growth (fungus ball) that develops in an area of past lung disease or lung scarring such as tuberculosis or lung abscess. [3] Context result 3: Most people do not get sick from Aspergillus. [4] Context result 4: In people with weakened immune systems, aspergillosis is an invasive pulmonary infection, usually accompanied by a fever, cough, and chest pain. [5] Context result 5: Aspergillosis is a spectrum of mycotic diseases caused by the Aspergillus species, usually A fumigatus. [6] Context result 6: Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis has symptoms similar to asthma. [7] Context result 7: Aspergillosis is an opportunistic infection that usually affects the lower respiratory tract and is caused by inhaling spores of the filamentous fungus Aspergillus. [8] Context result 8: Pulmonary aspergillosis is a fungal infection, which is mainly caused by Aspergillus species. [9] Context result 9: Aspergillosis (As-per-gill-osis) is an infection caused by a fungus called Aspergillus.

Understanding Aspergillosis: Signs and Symptoms

Aspergillosis is a fungal infection caused by the Aspergillus fungus, which can affect people with weakened immune systems or lung diseases. The signs and symptoms of aspergillosis vary depending on the specific form of the disease.

• Fever and respiratory issues: Invasive aspergillosis can cause fever, coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath (dyspnea) [1][2].
• Chronic wheezing and shortness of breath: Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) has symptoms similar to asthma, including chronic wheezing, shortness of breath, and a general feeling of poor health (malaise) [3][4].
• Fever, cough, and shortness of breath: Aspergillosis can cause symptoms similar to many other illnesses, such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath. If you're at risk for aspergillosis, talk to a healthcare provider if you have any of these symptoms [5].
• Worsening lung condition: If you already have a lung condition, your symptoms may get worse due to aspergillosis [8].

Diagnosing Aspergillosis

Diagnosing aspergillosis can be challenging and requires a combination of clinical evaluation, laboratory tests, and imaging studies. Your doctor might do a chest x-ray, CT scan of the lungs, and an examination of tissues for signs of the fungus to make a diagnosis [6][7].

Treatment Options

Treatment for aspergillosis typically involves antifungal drugs. If you have ABPA, you may also take steroids to manage symptoms [6]. It's essential to consult with a healthcare provider if you suspect you have aspergillosis.

References: [1] February 18, 2020 - You're usually only at risk of aspergillosis if you have: a lung condition, such as asthma, cystic fibrosis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) a weakened immune system (for example, if you've had an organ transplant or are having chemotherapy) [2] February 18, 2020 - You can call 111 or get help from 111 online. It can be difficult to diagnose aspergillosis and [3] Signs.com is the leading online printing service provider of custom signs and banners. Create your vinyl banners, yard signs, metal signs, and more. FREE DESIGN SERVICES and ONE DAY PRODUCTION. [4] The Experts in Custom Signs. We've fulfilled signs all over the U.S. for millions of customers since 2005. Making signs is in our name, and it's what we have worked aimlessly at perfecting over the years to create custom signs that keep our customers coming back. Whether you're a real estate agent needing long lasting aluminum yard signs or [5] At Signs in a Minute, we make buying signs online easy. Our broad selection of signage provides numerous options for signs that will enhance your company's image. [6] QC Signs & Graphics is not just another sign company in Charlotte, we are a full-service creative studio that aims to enhance the visual communication for all our clients by providing high-quality business signs. We are the experts in producing all types of interior business signs, exterior business signs, LED signs, vehicle wraps and graphics [7] Create your own custom signs online with our easy design tool and fast shipping. Choose from a variety of materials, sizes, designs, and templates for business, office, safety, yard, and car signs. [8] For top-notch custom large format printing, graphics, vinyl signs, architectural signage, retail signs, institutional signs, and a wide range of indoor and outdoor business identification solutions, trust Casco Signs.We proudly serve the Charlotte metropolitan area and the entire East Coast of the United States, ready to assist you whenever and wherever needed.

Diagnostic Tests for Aspergillosis

Aspergillosis, a fungal infection caused by Aspergillus species, can be challenging to diagnose due to its similarity in symptoms with other conditions. However, various diagnostic tests are available to confirm the presence of this infection.

• Imaging Tests: Imaging tests such as chest X-rays or CT scans can help diagnose aspergillosis by detecting nodules or fungal masses on the lungs [4][6]. A chest CT scan is more sensitive than radiographs for detection of early pulmonary aspergillosis [6].
• Fluid and Tissue Tests: Direct examination of respiratory specimens, culture, histopathology, and galactomannan antigen detection are also used to diagnose aspergillosis [2][7]. These tests can help identify the presence of Aspergillus species in the body.
• Allergy Tests: Skin testing, sputum and blood tests may be helpful in confirming allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) [1].
• Serum and BAL Galactomannan Measures: Serum and BAL galactomannan measures are recommended as markers for the diagnosis of invasive aspergillosis (IA) [5]. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) should be considered in patients with 10 to 14 days of symptoms.
• Other Tests: Aspergillus antibody test, complete blood count, and galactomannan testing are also used to diagnose aspergillosis [8][9].

It's essential to note that a combination of these tests may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis of aspergillosis. Consultation with a healthcare professional is recommended for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

References: [1] Skin testing, as well as sputum and blood tests, may be helpful in confirming allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis. [2] Oct 5, 2022 — Outline · Direct examination of respiratory specimens · Culture · Histopathology · Galactomannan antigen detection [3] Imaging like X-rays or CT scans, tests of fluid or tissue, and allergy tests all help to diagnose various forms of aspergillosis. [4] Oct 23, 2024 — Imaging tests such as a chest X-ray or CT scan can help with diagnosis because your doctor may be able to spot a nodule or fungal mass on your lungs. [5] Jul 21, 2024 — Serum and BAL galactomannan measures are recommended as markers for the diagnosis of IA. [6] by R Sherif · 2010 · Cited by 152 — A chest CT scan is more sensitive than radiographs for detection of early pulmonary aspergillosis [48], and should be considered in patients with 10 to 14 days of symptoms. [7] by F Lamoth · 2022 · Cited by 38 — The available mycological tests for IPA diagnosis include histological examination of biopsy or surgical specimens, culture and nonculture ... [8] Tests to diagnose aspergillus infection include: Aspergillus antibody test; Chest x-ray; Complete blood count; CT scan; Galactomannan (a sugar molecule shed by the fungus) [9] by C Lass-Flörl · 2019 · Cited by 90 — GM testing of BAL is a good tool to diagnose invasive aspergillosis, the optimal cut-off to positivity varies from 0.5 to 1.0.

Treatment Options for Aspergillosis

Aspergillosis, a fungal infection caused by Aspergillus species, can be treated with various medications depending on the severity and type of infection. Here are some common treatment options:

• Intravenous antifungal therapy: This is the primary treatment for invasive aspergillosis and chronic necrotizing pulmonary aspergillosis (CNPA). Medications such as voriconazole, liposomal amphotericin B, and itraconazole are commonly used.
• Voriconazole: Considered the drug of choice for invasive aspergillosis due to its better tolerance and improved survival rates compared to other antifungal medications [4].
• Itraconazole: Licensed for treatment of invasive aspergillosis in patients who are refractory to or intolerant of standard antifungal therapy [5].
• Posaconazole: May have a role in empiric and salvage therapy for invasive aspergillosis, particularly in patients with severe disease or those who are refractory to other treatments.
• Corticosteroids: May be prescribed to treat allergic forms of aspergillosis by reducing inflammation [6].

Severe Cases

In the most severe cases of aspergillosis, a combination of antifungal medication and surgery may be necessary [3]. Other medications that are suppressing the immune system may also be used.

References:

• [1] Recent guidelines recommend voriconazole and/or isavuconazole for the primary treatment of IA.
• [2] The treatment of invasive aspergillosis and chronic necrotizing pulmonary aspergillosis (CNPA) requires intravenous antifungal therapy.
• [3] In the most severe cases, a combination of antifungal medication and surgery may be necessary.
• [4] Voriconazole is now considered the drug of choice for invasive aspergillosis because of better tolerance and improved survival in comparison to other antifungal medications.
• [5] Itraconazole is licensed for treatment of invasive aspergillosis in patients who are refractory to or intolerant of standard antifungal therapy.
• [6] Corticosteroids (like prednisone, prednisolone and methylprednisolone) reduce inflammation.

Differential Diagnosis of Aspergillosis

Aspergillosis, a fungal infection caused by Aspergillus species, can be challenging to diagnose due to its similarity with other lung conditions. The differential diagnosis of aspergillosis involves considering various conditions that may present with similar symptoms and radiographic findings.

Conditions to Consider in Differential Diagnosis:

• Tuberculosis: A bacterial infection that can cause lung cavitation, consolidation, and pleural thickening.
• Non-tuberculous mycobacteria: A type of bacteria that can cause lung infections, including cavitary lesions.
• Malignancy (e.g., necrotizing lung cancer): Cancer that can cause lung destruction and cavitation.
• Endemic fungal infection (e.g., chronic cavitary pulmonary histoplasmosis): A fungal infection caused by Histoplasma capsulatum, which can present with similar radiographic findings to aspergillosis.

Other Forms of Aspergillosis:

• Isolated aspergilloma: A growth (fungus ball) that develops in an area of past lung disease or lung scarring.
• Chronic cavitary pulmonary aspergillosis (CCPA): A condition characterized by chronic pulmonary symptoms, cavitation, pleural thickening, and pericavitary infiltrates.

Diagnostic Criteria for CCPA:

• 3 months of chronic pulmonary symptoms or chronic illness or progressive radiographic abnormalities
• Cavitation, pleural thickening, pericavitary infiltrates, and sometimes a fungal ball
• Aspergillus IgG antibody elevated or other microbiological data

References:

• [4] The term "aspergillosis" refers to illness due to allergy, airway or lung invasion, cutaneous infection, or extrapulmonary dissemination caused by Aspergillus species.
• [13] differential diagnosis. Differential diagnosis includes: Tuberculosis. Non-tuberculous mycobacteria. Malignancy (e.g., necrotizing lung cancer may be superinfected with aspergillosis). Endemic fungal infection (e.g., chronic cavitary pulmonary histoplasmosis).
• [14] The diagnosis of chronic cavitary pulmonary aspergillosis (CCPA) requires: (i) 3 months of chronic pulmonary symptoms or chronic illness or progressive radiographic abnormalities, with cavitation, pleural thickening, pericavitary infiltrates, and sometimes a fungal ball; (ii) Aspergillus IgG antibody elevated or other microbiological data.