Aspergilloma
| Aspergilloma | |
|---|---|
| Classification and external resources | |
| DiseasesDB | 29065 |
An aspergilloma, also known as a mycetoma or fungus ball, is a clump of fungus which exists in a body cavity such as the lung. It is associated with the Aspergillus species,[1] but Zygomycota and Fusarium may also form similar structures.[citation needed]
Contents |
[edit] Etiology
The most common place affected by aspergillomas is the lung. Aspergillus fumigatus, the most common species, is typically inhaled as small (2 to 3 micrometer) spores which do not affect people without underlying lung or immune system disease. However, people who have pre-existing lung problems, especially the cavities typically caused by tuberculosis, are at risk for developing aspergillomae. The fungus settles in a cavity and is able to grow free from interference because the immune system is unable to penetrate into the cavity. As the fungus multiplies, it forms a ball, which incorporates dead tissue from the surrounding lung, mucus, and other debris.
[edit] Clinical syndrome
Typically, individuals who are affected by aspergillomae do not have symptoms related to the infection. People often co-exist for decades with aspergillomae prior to incidental diagnosis, typically by X-ray or computed tomography. However, a small percentage of aspergillomae invade into the wall of the cavity and can result in bleeding. Thus, the most common symptom of associated with aspergillomae is coughing up blood (hemoptysis). Although this can occasionally be life-threatening, the amount of blood produced is usually inconsequential.
Aspergillomae can form in other body cavities. They can form abscesses in the brain, usually in people who are immunocompromised. They can also form within the different sinuses in the face, within the kidneys and urinary system, the ear canal, and on the heart valves.
[edit] Treatment
Most cases of aspergilloma do not require treatment. Treatment of diseases which increase the risk of aspergilloma, such as tuberculosis, may help prevent their formation. In cases complicated by severe hemoptysis, surgery may be required to remove the aspergilloma and stop the bleeding. There has been interest in treatment with antifungal medications, such as itraconazole, but as of 2005, none has been shown to eradicate aspergillomae.
[edit] References
- Soubani AO, Chandrasekar PH (June 2002). "The clinical spectrum of pulmonary aspergillosis". Chest 121 (6): 1988–99. doi:10.1378/chest.121.6.1988. PMID 12065367. http://www.chestjournal.org/cgi/pmidlookup?view=long&pmid=12065367.
[edit] External links
- Full details of the treatment of aspergilloma and other chronic invasive aspergillosis cases can be found at the Aspergillus Website Treatment Section along with all other types of aspergillosis and antifungal drugs both established and in development.
- People with chronic aspergillosis can find support on the Aspergillosis Website Patients Section.
- Aspergillus - Aspergillus Website (diagnosis, treatment, cases, images, educational video)
- Aspergillus Patients Support - Aspergillus Patients (questions and answers, support group)
