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Definition Return to top
Aspergillosis is an infection, growth, or allergic response caused by the Aspergillus fungus.
Causes Return to top
Aspergillosis is caused by a fungus (Aspergillus), which is commonly found growing on dead leaves, stored grain, compost piles, or in other decaying vegetation.
There are several forms of aspergillosis:
Symptoms Return to top
Symptoms depend on the actual type of infection. For symptoms of aspergillosis-related growth, see aspergilloma.
Symptoms of allergic aspergillosis may include:
Exams and Tests Return to top
Tests to diagnose aspergillosis infection may include:
Treatment Return to top
A fungus ball usually does not require treatment unless bleeding into the lung tissue is associated with the infection, then surgery is required.
Invasive aspergillosis is treated with several weeks of amphotericin B, an antifungal medication given by an IV. Itraconazole or voriconazole can also be used.
Endocarditis caused by Aspergillus is treated with by surgically removing the infected heart valves. Long-term amphotericin B therapy is also needed.
Antifungal agents do not help people with allergic aspergillosis. Allergic aspergillosis is treated with prednisone taken by mouth.
Outlook (Prognosis) Return to top
Gradual improvement is seen in patients with allergic aspergillosis.
If invasive aspergillosis resists drug treatment, it eventually leads to death. The outlook for a person with invasive aspergillosis also depends on the underlying disease and immune system function.
Possible Complications Return to top
When to Contact a Medical Professional Return to top
Call the health care provider if symptoms of aspergillosis develop.
Prevention Return to top
Be careful when using medications that suppress the immune system. Prevention of AIDS prevents certain diseases, including aspergillosis, that are associated with a damaged or weaken immune system.
Update Date: 10/9/2006 Updated by: D. Scott Smith, M.D., MSc, DTM&H, Chief of Infectious Disease & Geographic Medicine, Kaiser Redwood City, CA & Adjunct Assistant Professor, Stanford University. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 25 September 2008 |