Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis, or Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis, or ABPA is a condition caused by mold. ABPA is caused by Aspergillus, one of the types of mold that is most commonly found in a North American household.
This condition is serious, and anyone who thinks they have this condition should seek medical attention. Anyone who has even been exposed to Aspergillus may consider seeing a medical professional, as ABPA is just one of many types of Aspergillosis which is one of the many lung diseases caused by Aspergillus.
What is ABPA?
ABPA is essentially a hypersensitivity response of the immune system to exposure to Aspergillus. The spores of this microscopic fungus enter the lungs, taking up residence and growing there.
This exaggerated immune system response most often affects those who already have respiratory problems such as asthma, cystic fibrosis, or bronchiectasis. ABPA symptoms actually seem similar to those of asthma and cystic fibrosis, and it may also resemble other respiratory conditions, which means additional tests like chest X-rays, blood tests, CT scans, or other screenings may be needed for diagnosis.
Symptoms of ABPA
When someone has ABPA, their airways become inflamed, and their symptoms most often resemble asthma. Someone with ABPA will get winded easily, experiencing shortness of breath, coughing and wheezing. Chronic sputum and mucus production are also very common. ABPA can cause bronchiectasis, or sacs in the airway, and bronchospasm, which is airway constriction. In addition other infections may initiate when someone has ABPA. Those with existing respiratory problems like asthma and cystic fibrosis will most likely find that the symptoms for these existing diseases worsen.
Treatment
If someone has ABPA, there is a treatment, but there is not a known cure. The goal of treatment is to prevent any permanent lung damage. The treatment will work to suppress the immune system reaction by using oral corticosteroids. Any mucus plugs will need to be removed. The condition will require monitoring through a variety of tests, including chest X-rays. It is almost impossible to remove the Aspergillus. An anti-fungal medication will be used along with steroids, the goal to be an eventual reduction in the amount of steroids being administered.
Conclusion
Mold can make anyone sick, but those with existing respiratory conditions are in even more danger of falling ill to a mold-related illness. ABPA, or Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis, is just one mold-related condition that could make one very ill. It is important that everyone avoid exposure to mold as much as possible.
If you find mold in your home, remove it immediately. Cleaning up the mold with bleach and hot water is a good start, but be sure to consider protective gloves, masks, and possibly even eyewear to prevent getting sick when the spores are disturbed. If the mold is caused by a persistently damp or moist area or by a leak in your plumbing, take care of the underlying problem. By removing the causes of mold in your home, you and your loved ones are much more likely to stay safe and healthy.
