Aspergillus spp Aspergillus spp. are filamentous (having long threads) fungi, which increasingly cause nosocomial infections. They are ubiquitous in the environment and are aerobic, grow as molds, and produce spores that become airborne and can invade the respiratory tract. There are about 180 species, but about 20 are human pathogens. Most healthy people are resistant to Aspergillus, but it can invade almost all organs, although rarely infecting the blood. Invasive infections occur in those who are immunocompromised, such as those having transplants or receiving chemotherapy. Mortality rates are as high as 90% for invasive infections and treatment often involves surgical debridement as well as medical treatment. Mold remediation, high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtration and laminar airflow rooms have been used to avoid infection, and antifungal prophylaxis may also be indicated. A. fumigatus and flavus cause most invasive infections. A. fumigatus and clavatus activate the antigen- antibody immune response, causing a hypersensitivity reaction. Infection Control Committee
Posted on: Tue, 01 Jul 2014 06:18:28 +0000
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