Aspergillosis is a group of diseases caused by the fungus Aspergillus. It can be caused by different species of Aspergillus, including A. fumigatus, A. flavus, and A. niger. Aspergillosis is not caused by a bacteria or virus; it is caused by a fungus.
Infection with Aspergillus typically occurs when a person breathes in airborne spores from the fungus. The fungus can live in soil, compost piles, decaying vegetation, and bird or bat droppings. Inhaling the spores can cause an infection in the lungs, sinuses, or other parts of the body.
Symptoms of aspergillosis depend on the type of infection and where it is located. The most common symptom is a cough, which may produce blood-tinged phlegm. Other symptoms may include chest pain, fever, fatigue, and shortness of breath. Infections in other parts of the body may cause skin lesions, swelling, or joint pain.
Aspergillosis is usually treated with antifungal medications, such as itraconazole or voriconazole. Surgery may be needed to remove infected tissue or organs. In severe cases, a lung transplant may be necessary.
To prevent aspergillosis, it is important to avoid exposure to sources of the fungus, such as bird droppings, compost piles, and decaying vegetation. People who have weakened immune systems should take extra precautions to avoid exposure.