Aspergillus fumigatus

Aspergillus fumigatus is a species of fungus in the genus Aspergillus, and is one of the most common Aspergillus species to cause disease in individuals with an immunodeficiency.

Taxonomy

Aspergillus fumigatus was first described by the German mycologist Friedrich Wilhelm Gottlieb Rostkovius in 1808. It is a member of the genus Aspergillus, which includes over 200 species.

Morphology

Aspergillus fumigatus is a saprophytic fungus that plays a major role in recycling environmental carbon and nitrogen. Its spores are ubiquitous in the atmosphere and are commonly inhaled, though they rarely cause disease in healthy individuals.

Pathogenicity

Aspergillus fumigatus is an opportunistic pathogen and can cause a variety of diseases in humans, the most common of which is invasive aspergillosis. This disease primarily affects individuals with a compromised immune system, such as those with HIV/AIDS, those undergoing chemotherapy, or organ transplant recipients.

Treatment

Treatment for diseases caused by Aspergillus fumigatus typically involves antifungal medications. The choice of medication can depend on a variety of factors, including the specific disease, the patient's overall health, and the patient's response to treatment.

See also

• Aspergillosis
• Fungal infection
• Immunodeficiency