Aspergillus Flashcards
How does transmission of Aspergillosis occur?
Transmission occurs through inhaling airborne Aspergillus spores.
Who is most at risk for Aspergillosis?
People with weakened immune systems or lung diseases are most at risk.
What factors influence the treatment of Aspergillosis?
Aspergillosis treatment depends on the type of infection.
What is the most common species of Aspergillus associated with infections?
Aspergillus fumigatus (A. fumigatus) and A. flavus.
What are common environments where Aspergillus species can be found?
- Soil
- Decomposing plant matter
- Household dust
- Building materials
- Plants
- Food
- Water
What are risk factors for invasive aspergillosis?
- Severe/prolonged granulocytopenia
- Hematologic malignancies
- Hematopoietic stem cell or solid organ transplant
- High-dose corticosteroids or other immunosuppressive therapies
What underlying conditions are associated with allergic aspergillosis?
- Asthma
- Cystic fibrosis
- Other underlying lung diseases
How does aspergillosis spread?
Transmission occurs through inhaling airborne spores.
What are some clinical features of aspergillosis in immunocompromised individuals?
- Invasive pulmonary infection
- Fever
- Cough
- Chest pain
What diagnostic tools are used to diagnose aspergillosis?
- Microscopy
- Histopathology
- Culture
- Galactomannan antigen test
- Beta-d-glucan assay
- Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
What does the Galactomannan antigen test detect?
It detects a polysaccharide that makes up part of the cell wall of Aspergillus.
What is the typical treatment for allergic aspergillosis?
Treatment is usually itraconazole but can also be corticosteroids.
What treatment options are available for aspergilloma?
Treatment may be a combination of surgery and antifungal medications.
What should be done for patients with severe invasive aspergillosis?
They may need surgery, and immunosuppressive medications should be decreased or discontinued if possible.
What emerging issue is being observed with Aspergillus fumigatus in the U.S.?
A. fumigatus that is resistant to azole antifungal medications is emerging.
What should healthcare professionals do if resistant A. fumigatus is suspected?
Clinicians should consult their local health department.
What network performs screening to monitor azole-resistant A. fumigatus?
Select regional labs in the AR Lab Network.
