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Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis among asthmatics
1Department of Medical Mycology, Medical Research Institute, Colombo.
The Ceylon Medical Journal
|June 1, 1991
Summary
Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) affects 1.2% of asthmatics, with 8% showing fungal allergy. Early detection through skin testing is key for managing this lung disease.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Allergology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) is an immunologically mediated lung disease recognized as a significant cause of chronic lung disease.
- Asthma patients are at risk for developing ABPA.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of ABPA in patients with severe, mild, or moderate asthma.
- To assess the utility of skin testing as a screening tool for ABPA.
Main Methods:
- Evaluated 540 patients with severe asthma and 96 with mild/moderate asthma.
- Conducted detailed examinations on 134 patients, including skin tests, serological tests, sputum examination, and peripheral blood eosinophil counts.
- Assessed skin test sensitivity to Aspergillus fumigatus and Aspergillus niger.
Main Results:
- Eight patients (1.2% of total, 6% of selected) showed evidence of ABPA.
- Fifty patients (8% of total, 37% of selected) had positive skin test reactivity, indicating fungal allergy and potential early or future ABPA.
- Skin test sensitivity was observed for both Aspergillus fumigatus and A niger.
Conclusions:
- ABPA affects a notable percentage of asthma patients.
- Positive skin test reactivity suggests fungal allergy and potential risk for ABPA development.
- Skin testing is a valuable screening tool for ABPA diagnosis in resource-conscious settings.