Fungi Can Damage Their Host through Infection
Everybody inhales a complex mixture of hyphal
fragments, fungal spores, and yeasts daily. The species’ composition varies
depending on the day and season, with the highest concentrations in late summer
and early autumn. Fungi can damage their host through infection, ranging from superficial cutaneous infections to
life-threatening invasive mycoses, by producing toxins, or by inducing allergic
reactions.
The few species that have been detected in the upper
and lower respiratory airways include yeasts, particularly Candida species, Penicillium, and Aspergillus species, with the latter
constituting the most prominent cause of fungal lung infections.
The Skin prick test and Specific IgE are most commonly used for the diagnosis
of fungal sensitization.
Allergic
fungal rhinosinusitis (AFRS) accounts for 5%- 10% of all cases of chronic
rhinosinusitis. Around 50% of AFRS
patients are asthmatic. Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis(ABPA),
or allergic bronchopulmonary mycosis
are other spectrum of fungal infections. Treatment includes allergen avoidance,
asthma treatment, antifungal and immunotherapy.
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