Pronounced: ASS-per-jill-OH-sis
Aspergillosis is an infection caused by a specific fungus. It can lead to severe lung problems.
The fungus can be found all over the world. Spores of the fungus can be released into the air. It is then inhaled into the lungs. The immune system can get rid of the fungus in most people. Aspergillosis will occur if the immune system is not working properly. The fungus is able to grow and cause an infection.
Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.
Factors that may increase your chances of aspergillosis:
Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.
Symptoms may include:
You will be asked about your symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. An infection will be suspected based on symptoms. Blood, urine, and coughed up fluids may also be tested. They can help to find the cause of the infection. The results will help to guide treatment.
The doctor may also need to see how much of the lung is involved. Tests may include one :
Talk with your doctor about the best plan for you. Treatment options include:
The fungus that causes this condition is everywhere. It is common in soil or compost. The fungus can also be found in mildew in bathrooms or other moist areas of home. If you are at risk for getting an aspergillosis infection, try to:
Long-term antifungal medicine may be given to those with a very high risk for infections.
American Lung Association
http://www.lung.org
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
https://www.cdc.gov
Invasive aspergillosis. EBSCO DynaMed Plus website. Available at:http://www.dynamed.com/topics/dmp~AN~T115708/Invasive-aspergillosis. Updated May 4, 2018. Accessed September 6, 2019.
Sherif R, Segal BH. Pulmonary aspergillosis: clinical presentation, diagnostic tests, management and complications. Curr Opin Pulm Med. 2010;16(3):242-250.
Last reviewed September 2019 by EBSCO Medical Review Board David L. Horn, MD, FACP Last Updated: 9/6/2019
EBSCO Information Services is fully accredited by URAC. URAC is an independent, nonprofit health care accrediting organization dedicated to promoting health care quality through accreditation, certification and commendation.
This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.
To send comments or feedback to our Editorial Team regarding the content please email us at healthlibrarysupport@ebsco.com. Our Health Library Support team will respond to your email request within 2 business days.