December 15, 2009

Aspergillosis Infection Symptoms and Treatment

Posted in Category : Common Ailments

There are a lot of microbial organisms that surround us. Most of them are harmful to the body. One such microbe is the aspergillus fungus that causes a condition called Aspergillosis. Aspergillosis is a collective of a number of diseases caused by these fungi. This condition is characterized by the growth of fungi, causing infections or allergies. All of our organs are susceptible to Aspergillosis. This condition may affect humans, animals, and plants alike. However, both plants and animals have developed strong mechanisms to fight off such fungal attacks.

Aspergillus is a very commonly found fungus. This species of fungus is usually found all over the world. It causes several disorders, some of which are quite severe. Pulmonary or nasal allergies and infections can become invasive and should be treated as soon as possible. Usually, this fungus is found in vegetables that are decaying. However, it is also commonly found in soil and air. When the temperature and moisture conditions are right, this fungus can also grow on food.

There are several conditions like some pulmonary disorders, excessive use of corticosteroids and diabetes that put a person at an increased risk of developing aspergillus colonization. People whose immunity has been compromised due to a recent infection, who have suffered surgery, or who have a long-term disease, are also more susceptible to aspergillosis. Since this is an invasive condition, the clinical importance of aspergillosis has increased over a period of time.

Aspergillosis is a very severe condition, and the severity of it is reflected in the 1,005 mortality rate of patients suffering from this disease. A specific type of fungus, known as A fumigatus, is responsible for the severest cases of aspergillosis. Another fungus called A terreus is also associated with the high rate of mortality. The infection is usually caused due to inhalation of the airborne fungi. It begins with invasion of the local tissues and becomes severe as the fungus spreads into the body. The invasion can also occur through recent surgical wounds or intravenous injections that are infected.

For those, whose immunity has been compromised due to any reason, tissue damage is more severe. The fungus usually attacks the nose, eyes, bones, nervous system, kidneys, heart, skin, and blood. If it attacks the central nervous system, deterioration of physical condition is pretty rapid. The treatment of this condition is usually with anti fungal drugs. The serum levels of these drugs are carefully monitored.