Aspergilloma is a fungal ball found in body cavities, most commonly in the lungs. It is caused by the aspergillus fungus and can lead to symptoms such as coughing, chest pains, and shortness of breath. Treatment may include antifungal medication or surgery.
An aspergilloma is a fungal ball that exists in a body cavity. Most commonly, the mass of the fungus is found in a lung cavity. When found in this primary location, the condition is known as pulmonary aspergilloma. It is possible for the fungi to be found in other parts of the body, such as a kidney or brain cavity. Another commonly used name for an aspergilloma is a mycetoma.
Generally, a fungal infection causes an aspergilloma. The infection is typically caused by a type of fungus known as aspergillus. Aspergillus is usually found in bird droppings, rotting vegetables, and dead leaves. As the fungus spreads in the body cavity, an abscess or mushroom ball may form. While not as common, it is possible that the mushroom ball is caused by a bacterium.
When a person has aspergilloma in a lung cavity, there are certain health ailments that can predispose an individual to this particular condition. An example of this could be the existence of abscesses in the lungs. Cystic fibrosis can also lead to fungal pellets. This is a very common lung disease that causes mucus to line up heavily in the lungs. Other conditions that can lead to aspergillomas include lung cancer and tuberculosis.
The symptoms of an aspergilloma can be different. Some individuals may have a very persistent cough. Often, blood can be pushed out in varying degrees. Other common symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pains, wheezing and fever. Additionally, a person may begin to lose weight even if they are not actively trying to. In some cases, there may be no distinctive warning symptoms.
There are some tests that can be done to diagnose aspergilloma. Initially, an individual may have a chest x-ray performed. He or she may also go through an additional diagnostic test such as a computed tomography (CT) scan of the chest. Blood tests will also be done. These tests will be done to examine your blood for aspergillus fungi.
Individuals with aspergilloma who are asymptomatic may need little or no treatment. When treatment is needed, doctors commonly prescribe antifungal medications. In case the ball or lump is caused by a bacterium, an antibacterial drug may be given. If an individual has severe symptoms, more advanced treatment may be deemed necessary.
Surgery can be done to treat aspergillomas. If a person is coughing up large amounts of blood, they may need lung surgery. Sometimes, the fungal infection can spread to the limbs. This can lead to tissue destruction in the limbs, which can be so devastating that an amputation may be required. Although it is an option for treatment, surgery is usually done only for severely complicated or life-threatening symptoms.
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