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Definition

Aspergillus is a common type of fungus. It is found all over the world. Aspergillosis is an infection causes by this fungus. It can cause severe problems in the lung.

This type of infection is rare. It is more common in people with:

• Chronic lung disease
• HIV]]> infection and ]]>AIDS]]>
• Prolonged ]]>chemotherapy]]>
• Steroid usage.

Most of these condition weaken the immune system. The body is less able to fight off infections.

In these cases, the fungus can spread to other organs. This can include the eye, sinuses, and brain. It is a serious condition that requires treatment.

Another form of aspergillosis affects people with ]]>asthma]]> :

• ]]>Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis]]> —a type of allergic reactions to environmental agents

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Causes

Inhaling fungus spores causes can be the first step to aspergillosis.

Risk Factors

The following factors increase your chance of developing Aspergillus :

• Compromised immunity
  • AIDS]]>
  • Drugs that accompany an organ transplant
  • Certain cancer treatments
  • Long-term, high-dose cortisone-like drugs
  • Poorly functioning or too few white blood cells (neutropenia)
• Chronic lung disease
  • ]]>Bronchiectasis]]>
  • ]]>Tuberculosis]]>
  • ]]>Sarcoidosis]]>
  • ]]>Histoplasmosis]]>
• ]]>Asthma]]>

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Symptoms

If you experience any of these, do not assume it is due to aspergillosis. These symptoms may be caused by many other health conditions. They may be more or less serious. See your doctor if you experience any one of these:

• Chronic productive cough
• Coughing up blood
• Fever
• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. You may be referred to a specialist in lung diseases or infectious diseases. A pulmonologist focuses on the lungs.

Tests may include the following:

• Blood and urine samples
• Sputum samples
• Chest x-ray]]>
• ]]>CT scan]]>
• ]]>MRI scan]]>
• ]]>Bronchoscopy]]> —a special thin scope is used to look into your lungs

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Treatment

There is a reason why you have this disease. The underlying disease must be treated along with the Aspergillus . Talk with your doctor about the best plan for you. Treatment options for this condition include:

Prevention

Aspergillus is everywhere. This makes it impossible to avoid it. The best step is to avoid the conditions that are associated with it.