Chronic Pulmonary Aspergillosis: Current Scenario

Abstract

Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA) is a severe fungal infection which is characterized by a slow and progressive destruction of the lung parenchyma and is usually seen in immunocompetent or mildly immunosuppressed patients with underlying respiratory disorders [1-2]. CPA is an important though neglected fungal infection. Diagnosing CPA can be extremely challenging given the fact that the clinical presentation is quite similar to other chronic respiratory illnesses and also due to the unavailability of a single diagnostic test that establishes the diagnosis. CPA is a broad term that encompasses a number of different presentations of varying severity. Also, there is a considerable overlap between the disease forms which adds to the confusion during diagnosis. Antifungal therapy with oral itraconazole is the first line of therapy and is usually recommended for at least 6 months. Since the disease is uncommon, many aspects of it are still unclear and requires further research and attention. This article aims to provide an update on the current developments with regards to CPA.