A fungal infection caused by Aspergillus, a mold found in the environment, is known as aspergillosis. A person who has a weakened immune system or lung conditions may develop serious complications from aspergillosis, even though most people are exposed to Aspergillus spores every day without becoming ill.
It is caused by inhaling Aspergillus spores from the air. Aspergillus can be found in soil, compost, decaying plants, and even marijuana leaves.
The symptoms of aspergillosis depend on the type and severity of the infection. There are several types of aspergillosis, including:
Aspergillosis allergic bronchopulmonary (ABPA) is an allergic reaction to Aspergillus in the lungs that can cause coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and fever in people with asthma, cystic fibrosis, or bronchiectasis.
In people with previous lung damage, such as tuberculosis or lung abscesses, aspergilloma usually causes coughing up blood, chest pain, and weight loss.
In people with chronic lung conditions, such as COPD or sarcoidosis, chronic pulmonary aspergillosis causes scarring and damage to the lungs. It can cause coughing, fatigue, weight loss, and fever.
It can cause fever, chills, headache, confusion, seizures, and organ failure if it spreads to other organs, including the brain, kidneys, heart, or skin. A person with a weak immune system is usually affected by it, such as a person who has undergone an organ or stem cell transplant, a person using corticosteroids or chemotherapy, a person with HIV or AIDS, or a person with low white blood cell counts.
Aspergillosis can be diagnosed by various tests, such as:
Blood tests: These can check for antibodies or antigens to Aspergillus, or signs of inflammation or infection.
Sputum or tissue samples: These can be examined under a microscope or cultured for Aspergillus.
Imaging tests: These can show the extent and location of the infection in the lungs or other organs. Examples include chest X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans.
Biopsy: This is a procedure to remove a small piece of tissue from the affected area and examine it for Aspergillus.
The treatment of aspergillosis depends on the type and severity of the infection. Some possible treatments include:
Voriconazole, itraconazole, amphotericin B, and caspofungin are antifungal medications that kill or stop the growth of Aspergillus.
Surgery: This is an option to remove an aspergilloma or a severely damaged part of the lung. It may also be needed to drain an abscess or repair a hole in the lung or other organ.
Corticosteroids: These are drugs that reduce inflammation and allergic reactions. They can be taken orally or inhaled. They are usually used for ABPA or allergic Aspergillus sinusitis.
Immunotherapy: This is a treatment that stimulates the immune system to fight Aspergillus. It can be given as an injection or a tablet. It is usually used for ABPA or chronic pulmonary aspergillosis.
Aspergillosis can be prevented by avoiding exposure to Aspergillus spores, especially for people who are at high risk of developing complications. Some preventive measures include:
Wearing a mask or respirator when working with soil, compost, or decaying plants.
Avoiding smoking or using marijuana that may be contaminated with Aspergillus.
Cleaning and disinfecting humidifiers, air conditioners, and ventilation systems regularly.
Avoiding contact with birds or their droppings, as they may carry Aspergillus.
Taking antifungal medications prophylactically if advised by a healthcare provider.
