Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis update: A year in review
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Published on: March 22, 2012
Aleksandra Barac1,2, Chris Kosmidis3, Ana Alastruey-Izquierdo4
1Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia.
Abstract:
Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA) is an uncommon, slowly destructive pulmonary disease characterized by progressive cavitation, fibrosis, and pleural thickening. CPA is usually seen in immunocompetent individuals with underlying respiratory disorders. Estimates suggest that up to 3 million people are affected worldwide causing high rates of morbidity and mortality. Pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) seems to be the most relevant driver for the global burden of CPA with estimates suggesting about 1.2 million patients with CPA as a sequel to TB. Diagnosis of CPA is often challenging and delayed and should be based upon a combination of characteristics. The first guidelines for the diagnosis and management of CPA were published in 2016 jointly by the European Society for Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (ESCMID), the European Respiratory Society (ERS), and the European Confederation of Medical Mycology (ECMM). CPA continues to receive significant public attention, which resulted in almost 150 newly published papers during 2017. The aim of this mini-review is to highlight the most important published papers from January 2017 to April 2018 to provide an update on current developments in the field of CPA.
Insights
Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA), a destructive lung disease, affects millions globally, often following tuberculosis. This review updates recent developments in CPA diagnosis and management.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Infectious Diseases
- Medical Mycology
Background:
- Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA) is a rare, destructive lung disease affecting immunocompetent individuals with respiratory conditions.
- An estimated 3 million people worldwide suffer from CPA, leading to significant morbidity and mortality.
- Pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) is a primary driver of CPA, with approximately 1.2 million TB patients developing CPA.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an update on current developments in CPA.
- To highlight key publications on CPA diagnosis and management from January 2017 to April 2018.
Main Methods:
- Mini-review of recently published papers (January 2017 - April 2018).
Main Results:
- CPA diagnosis remains challenging and often delayed.
- Guidelines for CPA diagnosis and management were established in 2016.
- Significant research interest in CPA is evident, with numerous publications emerging.
Conclusions:
- CPA is a significant global health concern, particularly in TB-endemic regions.
- Continued research and updated guidelines are crucial for improving CPA patient outcomes.
- Early and accurate diagnosis is essential for effective CPA management.
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