What it is
Forms include an allergic reaction in people with asthma or cystic fibrosis, a long-term infection in damaged lungs, and a rare but serious invasive infection in people with very weak immune systems.
Treatment depends on the form and may include antifungal medicines, steroids or, occasionally, surgery.
Common signs
- Worsening asthma symptoms
- A cough, sometimes with blood
- Breathlessness, tiredness, weight loss
- Fever in invasive infection
How it is usually diagnosed
- Blood tests for antibodies and allergy markers
- Chest X-ray or CT scan
- Tests on sputum or samples taken during a bronchoscopy
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- CT and X-ray reports
- Blood and sputum test results
- A record of antifungal treatment and blood levels
- Respiratory clinic letters
Questions to ask your doctor
- Which form of aspergillosis do I have?
- How long will treatment last, and how will we know it is working?
- Should I avoid certain places, such as compost or building sites?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Coughing up a lot of blood
- Severe breathlessness
- High fever if your immune system is weakened
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.