Aspergillosis is a fungal infection caused by the fungus Aspergillus. The marker for aspergillosis is the presence of the Aspergillus fungus in the body. It can be detected through a variety of tests, including direct examination of sputum or bronchoalveolar lavage, sputum culture, and blood tests.
Direct examination of sputum consists of examining the sputum under a microscope to identify the presence of Aspergillus. Sputum culture involves culturing the sputum on a medium that is favorable for the growth of the fungus. Blood tests can detect the presence of antibodies that are produced by the body when it is exposed to the Aspergillus fungus.
Imaging tests, such as CT scans, can detect the presence of lesions in the lungs that are caused by the Aspergillus fungus. They may also be used to determine the extent of the infection and the areas of the lungs that are affected.
In some cases, a biopsy of a lesion may be performed to confirm the diagnosis of aspergillosis. This involves taking a sample from the affected area and examining it under the microscope.
Overall, the marker for aspergillosis is the presence of the Aspergillus fungus in the body. This can be detected through a variety of tests, including direct examination of sputum, sputum culture, blood tests, and imaging tests. A biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis in some cases.