ID:IOTS - Infectious Disease Insight Of Two Specialists 118. The Moulds: Aspergillus part 1, overview
Aug 25, 2025
A lively tour of Aspergillus biology and disease spectrum. They cover which species cause trouble, how spores get cleared or cause infection, and why some people are at risk. Taxonomy, lab ID methods from microscopy to PCR and MALDI-TOF, and antifungal resistance concerns feature heavily. The conversation also touches on allergic, chronic, cutaneous, and invasive presentations.
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High Global Burden And Mortality Of Aspergillosis
- Aspergillus infections are worldwide and opportunistic, affecting people with asthma, cystic fibrosis or immunosuppression.
- An estimated >2 million invasive aspergillosis cases occur annually with mortality around 85%.
Pathogenesis From Conidia To Angioinvasion
- Infection starts from inhaled conidia that, if they germinate, form hyphae which invade tissue and can cause angioinvasion and dissemination.
- Immunocompetent hosts usually clear spores; massive exposure or severe immune defects permit invasive disease.
Damaged Lungs Promote Chronic Aspergillus Colonisation
- Damaged lungs (eg post-TB cavities, COPD, CF) allow colonisation and chronic pulmonary aspergillosis including aspergilloma formation.
- Aspergilloma appears as a fungal ball occupying cavities and has a characteristic radiological appearance.