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Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis (ABPA)

Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) is an allergy or sensitivity to a fungus found in soil known as Aspergillus fumigatus. In this condition, there is both an allergic and an inflammatory response to the mold.

Symptoms may include severe wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath, much like asthma. People with asthma are at a higher risk of getting ABPA.

The first sign of ABPA in people with asthma is a worsening of asthma symptoms. Other symptoms include:

  • Cough with brown flecks or bloody mucus
  • Fever
  • Weakness/malaise

ABPA may be treated with oral corticosteroids and possibly an oral anti-fungal medicine.

Medical Review June 2019.