Aspergillus, Aspergillosis, Antifungal Resistance and Dispersal

Aspergillus species are saprophytes, found in soil, decaying matter and on the surface of plants. Some species are pathogens of humans, other animals or plants or cause food spoilage. Invasive aspergillosis affects three million people, mostly immunocompromised individuals, and mortality is around 50% where treatment is provided and almost 100% without treatment. Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis affects five million people, particularly asthmatics and cystic fibrosis patients. Resistance to azole antifungals is rising, possible because of agricultural use of azoles. This review discusses Aspergillus species, aspergillosis and allergic conditions caused by Aspergillus, immune reactions and ways in which Aspergilli counteract immune responses, the rise of antifungal resistance and the dispersal of Aspergillus spores and mycelial fragments and suggests future prospects, including possible research directions and methods of detection and treatment.