Which are the causes of Aspergillosis?

See some of the causes of Aspergillosis according to people who have experience in Aspergillosis

Causes of Aspergillosis

Aspergillosis is a fungal infection caused by the Aspergillus fungus. This fungus is commonly found in the environment, including in soil, decaying vegetation, and indoor dust. While most people are exposed to Aspergillus on a daily basis, it usually does not cause any harm to healthy individuals. However, in certain circumstances, it can lead to the development of aspergillosis.

1. Weakened Immune System

One of the primary causes of aspergillosis is a weakened immune system. Individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, undergoing chemotherapy, or taking immunosuppressive medications after organ transplantation, are more susceptible to developing aspergillosis. A weakened immune system fails to effectively fight off the Aspergillus fungus, allowing it to invade and cause infection.

2. Respiratory Conditions

Respiratory conditions can also increase the risk of aspergillosis. People with pre-existing lung diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, or cystic fibrosis, have a higher likelihood of developing aspergillosis. These conditions can damage the respiratory system, making it easier for the Aspergillus fungus to establish an infection.

3. Environmental Exposure

Exposure to Aspergillus in the environment is another significant cause of aspergillosis. Inhalation of fungal spores is the most common route of infection. Individuals who work in occupations with high exposure to Aspergillus, such as farmers, gardeners, or construction workers, are at an increased risk. Additionally, people living or working in buildings with mold or damp conditions may inhale higher concentrations of Aspergillus spores, increasing their susceptibility to aspergillosis.

4. Hospital-acquired Infections

Aspergillosis can also be acquired in healthcare settings. Hospitalized patients, particularly those in intensive care units (ICUs), are more vulnerable to developing aspergillosis due to their weakened immune systems and prolonged exposure to Aspergillus spores present in the hospital environment. Surgical procedures, use of ventilators, and prolonged antibiotic use can further increase the risk of infection.

5. Allergic Reactions

Some individuals may develop allergic reactions to Aspergillus, leading to a specific type of aspergillosis called allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA). This condition occurs in individuals with asthma or cystic fibrosis who have an exaggerated immune response to Aspergillus antigens. ABPA is characterized by respiratory symptoms, such as wheezing, coughing, and difficulty breathing.

It is important to note that while exposure to Aspergillus is common, not everyone exposed will develop aspergillosis. The risk factors mentioned above increase the likelihood of infection, but individual susceptibility can vary. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial in managing aspergillosis and preventing complications.

Diseasemaps

In Australia I have found because our government is dead set on recycling we now have green bins that we throw all our organic waste in and they have really caused a problem for us ABPA's because we are allergic to compost & ground cover in the bush & even if an air-conditioner is not cleaned properly so just try to stay away from those things.

Posted Sep 11, 2017 by Michele 2656

In my case it would appear that sometime in my life I suffered from TB which left cavities in my lungs, an allergy to aspergillus spores caused the fungal growth in my lungs. This is my experience but i imagine there are many other causes of which I am unaware

Posted Oct 18, 2017 by Vaughan 2500

I do not know if there is a diverse cause of aspergillus in my case it was the mold with the same name. Apparently some people develop a terrible allergy to it, which creates lung inflammation capable of scaring the lungs which at some point creating a situation where you would either need a transplant of lungs or you would continue to fail.
I do know that hypersensitive pneumonitis can be contracted from being a baker(flour dust) or worm beds or farmer or any other life activity that causes constant irritation to lungs. Oftentimes people who keep birds can catch this condition from the bird droppings. Apparently even a hot tub that is mismanaged with its chemicals can give someone hypersensitive pneumonitis aspergillus.

Posted Oct 21, 2017 by Boni 1450

genetics and DNA
Also some who have damage to their lungs

Posted Nov 9, 2017 by Sam 2500

Mould spores in the atmosphere we breathe and people with asthma or bronchial problems are more likely to be affected. Food is slight not proven as far as I know but can cause problems.

Posted Aug 14, 2018 by StuartMcKelvie 4050

Living in the Pacific Northwest I developed it from a weak immune system from an autoimmune disorder. It comes from mold spores that get airborne. With me, I believe it came about from raising chickens and doing all the maintenance of cleaning the straws and from raking leaves and breathing in the mold spores. This came to me from my environment along with my weak auto immune disorder. Also, my home at that time was damp and we had lots of large dogs with long hair that were in and out of the house and I was the one who cleaned them. Plus the old carpeting that I vacuumed every day. So, I absolutely believe it was environmental.

Posted Aug 8, 2019 by Patricia Fletcher 2500

Generally a person is at higher risk of getting aspergillosis if they are

1. Undergoing a medical procedure that renders them severely immunocompromised
2. Have inherited a set of 'susceptibility genes'
3. Have pre-existing lung damage eg Tb scars, COPD

Aspergillosis is caused by the fungus Aspergillus and its spores are present in virtually all of the air we all breathe, consequently, we cannot avoid breathing them in completely. This is the main route of infection.
Aspergillus is more plentiful in the air around disturbed soils and areas where there is lots of rotting vegetation. Damp homes and places of work also often have increased levels of Aspergillus spores in the air. It is unlikely that someone who does not have one of the above list of risk factors will get aspergillosis although they might be at risk of a sinus infection.
Clearly, if someone who has one of the risk factors were to enter a damp building then they would be at increased risk of getting aspergillosis.

Posted Oct 16, 2019 by GAtherton 3100

spores, fungus and compromised immune system

Posted Oct 17, 2019 by Linda Galbraith 2500

Aspergillosis is an infection caused by a type of mold. The illnesses resulting from aspergillosis usually affect the respiratory system, but their signs and severity vary greatly. The mold that triggers the illnesses, aspergillus,

Posted Oct 18, 2019 by Mubashar Iqbal 800

Breathing in spores of the cuts, which are always present in the air.
If you have asthma, your lungs are compromised.
You shouldn't use, potting mix, compost, or dig. soil, particularly in enclosed places.

Posted Oct 19, 2019 by Pam Mars 2500

Allergy to aspergillis mould.
Childhood asthma
Stressful life
Poor diet

Posted Feb 14, 2020 by Peta 3110

A life of asthma treated with steroids, suppressed immunity, chronic use of antibiotics all contribute to the development of fungal disease.

Posted Feb 15, 2020 by Dayna 1700

The saprophytic Aspergillus Fumigatus is the common agent often colonising preexisting lung cavities due to TB or taking advantage of immunocompromised individuals

Posted Aug 25, 2020 by Coco2020 1000

Translated from spanish Improve translation

The aspegilosis is a mycosis type opportunistic, commonly grows in vegetations mortas, stored grain or other vegetation in decomposicion.

Posted Oct 26, 2017 by Antônio 200