Aspergillus and Aspergillosis

Aspergillosis is a term used to refer to infections caused by molds belonging to the genus Aspergillus.1 These conditions are seen worldwide. In immunocompromised individuals, inhalation of conidia or hyphal fragments can give rise to life-threatening invasive infection of the lungs or sinuses: dissemination to other organs often follows. This condition is termed invasive aspergillosis (IA). In nonimmunocompromised persons, these molds can cause localized infection of the lungs, sinuses, and other sites. Human disease can also result from noninfectious mechanisms: inhalation of conidia of these ubiquitous organisms can exacerbate allergic symptoms in both atopic and nonatopic individuals. Several Aspergillus species produce mycotoxins that are harmful to humans and animals when ingested.