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Histological Quantification to Determine Lung Fungal Burden in Experimental Aspergillosis
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The clinical spectrum of aspergillosis in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Akaninyene Otu1, Chris Kosmidis2, Alexander G Mathioudakis3,4

  • 1Department of Microbiology, Leeds General Infirmary, Great George Street, Leeds, LS1 3EX, UK. akanotu@yahoo.com.

Infection
|January 20, 2023
PubMed

Insights

Aspergillus infections, including invasive aspergillosis, are increasingly recognized in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. This review clarifies the spectrum of Aspergillus-related lung diseases in COPD and highlights research gaps.

Area of Science:

  • Pulmonology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Mycology

Background:

  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a major global health burden, ranking as the third leading cause of death worldwide.
  • Aspergillus species are common airborne fungi that can cause various lung infections.
  • The relationship between Aspergillus-related lung diseases and COPD requires further elucidation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the clinical spectrum and pathogenesis of Aspergillus-related syndromes in patients with COPD.
  • To differentiate between Aspergillus-related conditions clearly linked to COPD and those that may coexist.
  • To identify current uncertainties and future research directions regarding invasive aspergillosis (IA) in COPD cohorts.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of clinical studies and case reports.
  • Analysis of the pathogenesis of Aspergillus infections in the context of COPD.
  • Discussion of diagnostic challenges and therapeutic considerations.

Main Results:

  • Identified four main Aspergillus-related syndromes in COPD: invasive aspergillosis (IA), community-acquired Aspergillus pneumonia, chronic pulmonary aspergillosis, and Aspergillus sensitization.
  • Some Aspergillus syndromes are directly associated with COPD, while others may occur concurrently but lack a clear causal link.
  • Significant uncertainties remain regarding the precise incidence and impact of IA in COPD populations.

Conclusions:

  • Aspergillus infections represent a significant, often under-recognized, complication in COPD patients.
  • Further research is crucial to better understand the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and management of Aspergillus-related lung diseases in COPD.
  • Clarifying the role of IA in COPD is a priority for improving patient outcomes.
Keywords:
AspergillosisBronchiectasisChronic pulmonary disease

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