What is Aspergillus fumigatus?

About Aspergillus fumigatus

• It is a species of fungus that causes diseases in humans. 
• It can be found throughout the environment, including in soil, plant matter, and household dust. 
• The fungus can also produce airborne spores called conidia. Most people can inhale many of these spores on a daily basis. 
• In a healthy individual, the immune system often clears them from the body without a problem. However, for some people, inhaling A. fumigatus, spores can lead to a potentially severe infection.
• Aspergillus fumigatus is considered an opportunistic organism. It has low virulence (ability to cause damage) and causes disease only in some circumstances, like:
  • A severely weakened state caused by sickness, poor nutrition, advanced age, etc.
  • Immunosuppression by diseases or medicines
  • Implants use, such as prosthetic devices
• Illness Caused:
  • An infection that’s caused by an Aspergillus species of fungus is referred to as aspergillosis.
  • Aspergillus can cause allergic reactions, chronic lung conditions, and an invasive disease that spreads to your brain, kidneys, lungs, or other organs.
• Symptoms:
  • The symptoms of aspergillosis vary depending on the type and location of your body.
  • Symptoms of infections or allergic reactions in your lungs are the most common. They include:
  • Coughing (sometimes coughing up blood).
  • Shortness of breath (dyspnea).
  • Noisy breathing (wheezing).
  • Chest pain.
  • Fever.
  • Fatigue and weight loss can be symptoms of chronic pulmonary aspergillosis.
• Treatment: Treatments include surgery and antifungal medications.

Q1) What is a fungus?

A fungus (plural: fungi) is a type of eukaryotic organism belonging to the kingdom Fungi, alongside plants, animals, protozoa, and monera. Fungi are incredibly diverse, with commonly encountered forms including yeast, molds, truffles, and mushrooms.

Source: Unlocking the secrets of disease-causing fungus Aspergillus fumigatus

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