Nasal Microbiota in Immune Disorders: Bacterial and Fungal Colonization Patterns and Aspergillus Detection Methods
Kai-Li Liang1,2,3,4, Rong-San Jiang2,3,5, Yi-Hsing Chen2,6
1Department of Otolaryngology, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.
American Journal of Rhinology & Allergy
|April 23, 2026
Summary
Immune status impacts nasal microbes. In immunodeficient patients, nasal irrigation reduced Aspergillus DNA, suggesting a potential method to decrease fungal colonization in those at risk.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Immunology
- Respiratory Medicine
Background:
- The human respiratory tract harbors a complex microbial ecosystem.
- Host immune status significantly influences microbial composition in various body sites, including the nasal cavity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of immune disorders on nasal microbial colonization.
- To explore Aspergillus detection methods in immunodeficient hosts.
- To evaluate the efficacy of nasal irrigation in reducing fungal colonization.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of nasal swabs from healthy volunteers, allergic airway disease patients, and immunodeficient patients using 16S rRNA and ITS2 microbiome sequencing.
- Assessment of Aspergillus colonization in immunodeficient individuals via galactomannan testing, quantitative PCR, and fungal culture.
- Evaluation of nasal irrigation's effect on fungal colonization.
Main Results:
- While overall microbial composition showed no significant differences between groups, distinct features were noted within each.
- Immunodeficient patients exhibited higher Aspergillus DNA concentrations and fungal culture positivity compared to healthy controls.
- Nasal irrigation demonstrated a significant reduction in Aspergillus DNA concentration.
Conclusions:
- A complex interplay exists between the immune system and airway microbiota.
- Microbiome analysis may not be the optimal method for upper respiratory tract microbiology in immunomodulated patients.
- Nasal irrigation shows potential for reducing fungal colonization in immunocompromised individuals, mitigating infection risk.
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