ABPA Flashcards
1
Q
What does ABPA stand for?
A
Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis
2
Q
What is allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis?
A
Hypersensitivity reaction to the bacteria Aspergillus fumigatus which colonises in the lungs of asthma sufferers and those with cystic fibrosis
3
Q
Which immunoglobulins infiltrate the lungs of atopic individuals on exposure to fungals?
A
IgG and IgE
4
Q
How does ABPA present?
A
It presents as asthma complicated by bronchial obstruction, fever, malaise, brownish mucous, blood eosinophilia and haemoptysis.
5
Q
How would you treat ABPA?
A
Avoid the fungus, prescribe corticosteroids and itraconazole.
