Aspergilloma

Aspergilloma is the commonest non-invasive fungal ball; other fungi (Mucor) rare; Aspergillus most common. Only hyphal growth; velvety/floccose colonies.

Common Symptoms

Cyst; weight loss; abscess; hemoptysis

Causes and Pathogenesis

Pre-existing cavities (TB/bronchiectasis/cysts/sarcoid/histoplasmosis/ankylosing spondylitis/malignancy); pleural spaces; saprophytic colonization with minimal tissue invasion. Ball = intertwined hyphae growing on cavity wall; invades local vessels but rarely lung parenchyma; can become invasive/lethal. Outcome depends on live vs dead fungi; may lyse/cough up; rare calcification. Rare variant: no pre-existing cavity, starts as irregular infiltrate that rounds/cavities.

Treatment

Surgical, drug, supportive therapy

Preventive Measures

Masks for infected patients/residents of endemic areas; treat active infection.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Respiratory department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.